Earthion launches July 31

Shoot ’em up game Earthion will launch for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Switch, and PC via Steam on July 31, publishers Limited Run Games and Superdeluxe Games, and developers Ancient and Bit Wave Games announced.

In the west, Limited Run Games will distribute physical copies of the game, although pre-orders have yet to go up. In Japan, physical edition pre-ordres are now available for PlayStation 5 and Switch via Superdeluxe Games, with a release planned for October 30.

Here is an overview of the game, via its Steam page:

About

Return to the genesis of 16-bit gaming with Ancient’s brand new shoot ’em up, Earthion!

With Earth’s resources depleted and its environment in ruin, most of humanity has fled to Mars. But when hostile invaders launch an attack on Earth, mankind has no choice but to fight back. As environmental researcher Azusa Takanashi, you’ll pilot the state-of-the-art space fighter YK-IIA and mount the most important counterattack in human history. Losing is not an option!

Featuring eight action-packed stages full of stunning visuals, frenetic gameplay, and amazing special effects—not to mention an incredible soundtrack composed by the legendary Yuzo Koshiro—Earthion will have you on the edge of your seat as you fight to save humanity’s future.

Key Features

• A brand new, completely authentic retro 2D shooter experience designed on actual 16-bit hardware.
• Destroy enemy craft and nab their resources to enhance your ship’s capabilities.
• Utilize various subweapons to deploy a multitude of different strategies and tactics.
• Play through the main story or try Challenge Mode to put your combat abilities to the test.
• Jam out to Yuzo Koshiro’s infectious tunes with the in-game Music Player.
• Developed by Ancient, known for working on beloved 16-bit franchises such as Streets of Rage, Beyond Oasis, and Actraiser.

Watch a new trailer below.

Digital Release Date Trailer