Get ready, classic shmup fans. Earthion is finally ready to leave its station for consoles and PC next month!
Ancient and Bitwave Games have announced that the 16-bit inspired shooter will arrive on July 31. What’s more, it comes with a classic Yuzo Koshiro-produced soundtrack. And physical versions are available for pre-order from Limited Run Games and Superdeluxe Games!
The game is set to release for PlayStation consoles, as well as Xbox Series S/X, Nintendo Switch/Switch 2 and PC. There’s also a Mega Drive/Genesis version in the works, but it won’t be ready until early 2026.
The Official Product Description, Straight From the Earthion Devs
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.
Wait, Physical Too?!
The physical version is available for order here. What’s more, you can get other goodies as well, including a collector’s edition, a special 8BitDo controller, and the soundtrack on cassette or vinyl. Now that’s collecting! It should ship sometime later this year physically.
If you prefer digital purchase, you can wishlist the game now on Steam. Other platforms should have wishlisting available soon.
Who’s ready for a classic shmup for summer? We sure are.
Not content with just one classic shooter? Read up on the return of R-Type Delta as well!
