TECHMASH

Tag: #ClearRiverGames

  • Sweet & Spritely — Clear River Games Unleashes Double Cotton Delight Today

    Sweet & Spritely — Clear River Games Unleashes Double Cotton Delight Today

    Two classics, one legendary witch — the cute ‘em up queen has returned.

    Clear River Games, the retro and classic games specialist, has officially dropped not one but two beloved entries from the iconic Cotton series onto consoles — both available right now. Cotton Reboot! and Cotton Reboot! High Tension! arrive hand-in-hand, bringing sugar, spells, and bullet-hell brilliance to a whole new generation of players.

    Who Is Cotton?

    For those new to the magic: Cotton defined the cute ‘em up genre. Born in Japanese arcades in 1991, the series follows the eponymous young witch — bright, brash, and utterly obsessed with magical Willow sweets — and her fairy companion Silk as they blast through fantastical realms, battling monsters and dodging intricate patterns of glowing projectiles. It’s a formula where adorable art meets merciless challenge, and it’s been a cult favourite for 35 years.

    Cotton Reboot! — The Classic, Reborn

    Arriving today, October 22, Cotton Reboot! lands on Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation 5, with both digital and physical editions available. It’s a loving restoration of the 1993 arcade classic Cotton: Fantastic Night Dreams, rebuilt from the ground up with:

    • HD Reboot Mode — crisp, modern visuals, remastered audio, and smooth widescreen presentation
    • X68000 Original Mode — the authentic, pixel-perfect experience as it appeared on Japan’s legendary Sharp X68000 home computer, preserved exactly as fans remember it
    • Choice between the original soundtrack and a full, high-fidelity rearrangement
    • Full Japanese voice acting with multi-language text support

    Every spell, every stage, every boss is faithfully recreated — with quality-of-life touches that make it feel at home on modern consoles without losing that signature nostalgic edge.

    Cotton Reboot! High Tension! — More Magic, More Mayhem

    Also launching today — on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5 — is High Tension!, the vibrant follow-up built on the Reboot foundation. This isn’t just a repeat: it cranks the intensity with:

    • High Tension Mode — enemy attacks grow more aggressive and elaborate as you progress; master the new Over Tension system to unleash devastating hidden magic and chase record scores
    • Willow Fever — the returning Fever system, now bigger, bolder, and more spectacular than before
    • Classic abilities — Fire Dragon, Lightning, and more — alongside all-new tricks and tactical depth
    • Fresh stages, reimagined bosses, and a story that pits Cotton against a very unexpected foe: a corrupted, sweet-crazed Willow

    Why This Double Drop Matters

    Retro re-releases are common — but getting two distinct, high-quality Cotton experiences on the same day, across multiple formats, is something special. Clear River Games has partnered with Japan’s Beep and Rocket Engine to bring these titles west, complete with physical collector’s editions for anyone who wants to own a piece of shoot-‘em-up history.

    For veterans, it’s a chance to revisit a masterpiece and its bold sequel with all the polish they deserve. For newcomers, it’s the perfect entry point: approachable in style, endlessly charming, and — beneath that fluffy exterior — a genuine test of skill that rewards practice, pattern recognition, and quick reflexes.

    “Cotton has been a beloved mascot of the cute ‘em up genre for decades,” the Clear River Games team said in today’s announcement. “Bringing both titles to players together feels like the perfect way to celebrate everything that makes these games special — and to introduce one of gaming’s sweetest, most determined heroes to a brand-new audience.”

    Out Now — Go Get Your Sweets

    • Cotton Reboot! ? Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5 — Digital & Physical
    • Cotton Reboot! High Tension! ? Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 — Digital & Physical

    Both titles are available starting October 22, 2026.

    Don’t let the bright colours fool you — these games bite back. But if you’ve got the reflexes, the rewards are pure magic.

    More Info: Cotton Reboot and Cotton High Tension

    #CottonReboot #CottonHighTension #ClearRiverGames #CuteEmUp #RetroGaming #ShootEmUp #IndieRetro #NintendoSwitch2 #PS5 #ClassicGames #Techmash

  • Terranigma Returns: Classic SNES Action RPG Comes Home January 14, 2027 Across All Major Platforms

    Terranigma Returns: Classic SNES Action RPG Comes Home January 14, 2027 Across All Major Platforms

    Clear River Games, the publisher dedicated to preserving and reintroducing beloved classic and retro titles, has officially confirmed that the legendary action RPG Terranigma will be re-released digitally and physically on January 14, 2027. The 1995 Quintet masterpiece arrives on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam & GOG), bringing one of the SNES era’s most cherished — and long hard-to-find — adventures to modern players for the first time.

    A Legend Reborn

    Originally launched in 1995 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Terranigma earned enduring acclaim for its sweeping story of rebirth, creation, and humanity; its vibrant pixel art; and its emotionally resonant soundtrack. Following protagonist Ark on a journey to resurrect the world — from the awakening of life to the rise of civilisation — the game has long stood as a high-water mark in Japanese RPG design, yet for decades remained trapped on its original platform with no official modern re-release.

    That wait is now over. Clear River Games has partnered to faithfully restore the title while updating it for today’s hardware, with oversight and new artwork from original character artist Kamui Fujiwara, ensuring the spirit of the original is honoured throughout.

    What’s New — And What Stays Classic

    This is no full remake: the beloved gameplay, visuals, and narrative remain intact, thoughtfully enhanced with quality-of-life improvements and presentation options:

    • Quality-of-life upgrades: Quick magic button, item hot-swap, fully remappable controls, and a rewind function
    • Enhanced display: Customisable high-resolution backgrounds, CRT filter, and multiple aspect ratios
    • Arranged Mode: An optional rebalanced experience with boosted magic damage, permanent mini-map, and free-save anywhere
    • Bonus content: In-game music player and museum mode featuring concept and production art

    Collectors Rejoice — Three Physical Editions

    For fans who want something tangible, three distinct physical releases are being produced for consoles:

    Table

    EditionHighlights
    Standard EditionFull game, premium packaging
    SteelBook® EditionCollectable SteelBook case, exclusive cover art
    Gaia EditionPremium magnetic box with art by Kamui Fujiwara; SteelBook game; 200-page art book; enamel pin of pixel Ark; original soundtrack CD; 100% cotton cloth map

    A limited-run Foiled Standard Edition will also be available exclusively through Clear River Games and Limited Run Games storefronts.

    Mark Your Calendars

    Terranigma launches digitally and physically on January 14, 2027. Wishlists are now live on Steam and GOG for PC, and digital storefronts for consoles will follow shortly. Whether you’re returning to Crysta to walk Ark’s path once more or stepping into this timeless tale for the very first time, the world is ready to be reborn — and you’re invited.

    Find out more here

    #Terranigma #ClearRiverGames #RetroGaming #JRPG #SNES #NintendoSwitch #Switch2 #PS5 #Xbox #PCGaming #ClassicGames #GamingNews #TechMash

  • Hip-Hop Meets Yokai Magic: Ninja JaJaMaru: Yokai Night Parade Slashes onto Steam, PS5, and Nintendo Switch 2!

    Hip-Hop Meets Yokai Magic: Ninja JaJaMaru: Yokai Night Parade Slashes onto Steam, PS5, and Nintendo Switch 2!

    Retro gamers and Action RPG enthusiasts, get ready to drop the needle and draw your blades! Publisher Clear River Games—renowned for bringing classic and retro gems to modern platforms—has teamed up with legendary Japanese developer and publisher City Connection to officially announce Ninja JaJaMaru: Yokai Night Parade.

    Serving as a spiritual successor to Ninja JaJaMaru: The Great Yokai Battle, this fresh entry infuses the long-running series with an intoxicating “Yokai × 90s Hip-Hop” fusion. Get ready to battle dancing spirits, rack up crazy combos, and save Princess Sakura in a vibrant, stylised world where traditional Japanese folklore meets 90s street culture and funky beats.

    Here is everything you need to know about this upcoming hack ‘n’ slash Action RPG!

    Groovy Beats & High-Octane Hack ‘n’ Slash Action

    The story begins with a classic setup—Princess Sakura has been kidnapped! However, this is no ordinary rescue mission; it’s a full-on yokai dance party. Led by the Yokai Supreme Commander, Nurari Pyoko, hordes of mythological creatures are ready to party… and fight.

    Ninja JaJaMaru: Yokai Night Parade pairs retro pixel-art characters with modern 3D environments, bringing fast-paced combat to life:

    • Fluid Combat & Aerial Moves: Leap across platforms and crush foes with nostalgic aerial stomps, execute multi-hit melee combos, or fire off unlimited ranged attacks.
    • Diverse Weaponry: A broad arsenal of unique ninja gear with distinct attack animations lets you customise your playstyle.
    • Rad Ninpo Ultimate Skills: Unleash nine ultimate skills, each featuring 5 deep upgrade tiers to decimate screen-clearing waves of enemies.
    • The Yokai Night Parade Special Rules: Step through glowing torii gates inside dungeons to enter special rulesets, fight boss yokai showing off unique dance moves, and score massive loot drops!

    Deep Customisation and Endgame Content

    The action doesn’t end when the battle stops. After taking down foes across factories, yokocho alleys, onsen, and snowy mountains, you’ll head back to JaJaMaru’s Room—your customizable home base.

    Here, you can:

    • Upgrade your stats and gear.
    • Decorate your room with furniture found during dungeon runs (which also grants passive stat boosts!).
    • Dive into an extensive in-game Encyclopedia and tackle challenging endgame dungeons.

    Release Platforms & Live Demo at Gamescom

    Whether you’re playing on PC or next-gen consoles, Ninja JaJaMaru: Yokai Night Parade will be hitting the following platforms:

    • PC (Steam)
    • PlayStation®5
    • Nintendo®Switch 2

    Gamers attending Gamescom can get hands-on experience right now by visiting the Clear River Games booth in Hall 10.2 to try out a playable demo! If you can’t make it to the show floor, don’t sweat it—you can officially wishlist the game on Steam today.

    What do you think, gamers?

    Are you ready to blend retro ninja action with 90s hip-hop flair on the Nintendo Switch 2 and PS5? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #NinjaJaJaMaru #YokaiNightParade #ClearRiverGames #CityConnection #GamingNews #RetroGaming #ActionRPG #HackAndSlash #Switch2 #PS5 #SteamGames #Gamescom #IndieGames #TechMash

  • The Arcade Legend Returns! Truxton Extreme Ships Today from Clear River Games and Tatsujin

    The Arcade Legend Returns! Truxton Extreme Ships Today from Clear River Games and Tatsujin

    Retro shoot ’em up fans, assemble! Classic video game publisher Clear River Games and Japanese developer Tatsujin have officially announced that Truxton Extreme has shipped!

    Marking the first completely new instalment in the iconic Truxton (known in Japan as Tatsujin) franchise in nearly four decades, this explosive new release brings one of arcade gaming’s most celebrated vertical shmups bang up-to-date for modern platforms.

    Whether you’re a hardened arcade veteran with high-score muscle memory or a newcomer curious about the Golden Age of vertical shooters, here is everything you need to know about the grand return of a shoot ’em up legend.

    Retro Fury Meets Modern Firepower

    Originally debuting in arcades back in 1988 under the legendary Toaplan banner, Truxton established itself as an instant classic thanks to its tight controls, relentless action, and iconic weapon arsenal. Now, original series mastermind and Tatsujin CEO Masahiro Yuge has returned to lead the charge, bringing the classic series into a whole new era while preserving its legendary gameplay DNA.

    Truxton Extreme upgrades the pixelated starfields of the late ’80s into crisp 3D visual environments filled with twisting alien tentacles, gigantic mechanical bosses, and screen-filling laser battles—all designed with careful restraint to keep action smooth, readable, and incredibly satisfying.

    Iconic Weapons & Fresh Upgrades

    Combat in Truxton Extreme delivers the satisfying, heavy-hitting firepower fans expect from the franchise. Pilots will get to blast through alien fleets using classic and enhanced weaponry:

    • Power Shot: A reliable spread attack that covers wide swathes of the screen.
    • Truxton Beam / Tatsujin Beam: A concentrated forward laser that melts heavy enemy armour.
    • Thunder Laser: The iconic locking laser that weaves across the screen targeting hostile forces.
    • Homing & Star-Mine Shots: Destructive ordnance designed to sweep up trickier enemy formations.
    • EX Shot & Screen-Clearing Bombs: Charge up your EX meter by destroying foes to unleash heightened firepower, or drop a classic screen-clearing bomb when you need an emergency escape route.

    To top it all off, Masahiro Yuge—a classically trained pianist turned legendary game designer—returns with an electrifying new soundtrack that blends reimagined retro tracks with brand-new compositions.

    Packed with Game Modes for Every Player

    One of the standout additions in Truxton Extreme is its wealth of game modes catering to all skill levels:

    • Story Mode: Dive into an expansive narrative featuring three distinct pilot protagonists, unravelling their drama through unlockable comic episodes as you progress through outer-space battles.
    • Arcade Mode: Pure, unadulterated classic shmup action for purists who want to tackle stages sequentially for ultimate high scores.
    • Co-Op Team Mode: Share lives, bombs, and total scores with a friend in local two-player co-op mode.
    • Heart Starter Mode: A beginner-friendly option where making a mistake won’t cost you a life, letting newcomers build their reflexes without constantly hitting “Game Over.”
    • Arena & Extras: Test your speed in 2-minute score attacks, explore unlockable character models, or rescue cute Pipiru aliens to help build up Pipiruville!

    Launching on All Major Platforms

    Truxton Extreme is available digitally and physically across PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam and GOG).

    If you’ve been itching for a true arcade-style challenge packed with nostalgia, stunning music, and intense action, Truxton Extreme is ready for takeoff. Strap into your cockpit and prepare to save the galaxy!

    Find out more here

    #TruxtonExtreme #ClearRiverGames #Tatsujin #Shmup #RetroGaming #GamingNews #Toaplan #ArcadeGaming #TechMash

  • Retro Revamp: Toaplan Arcade Garage: Flying Fire Shark Hits PS4 and Switch this Summer!

    Retro Revamp: Toaplan Arcade Garage: Flying Fire Shark Hits PS4 and Switch this Summer!

    Big news for the shmup community! Clear River Games, the specialists in bringing retro gold to modern hardware, has officially announced that Toaplan Arcade Garage: Flying Fire Shark is heading to PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch on 29th August 2026.

    Developed by the emulation wizards at M2, this collection celebrates the “Shark” series from the legendary Japanese studio Toaplan—the games that essentially defined the vertical-scrolling shooter genre as we know it.

    What’s in the Box?

    This isn’t just a simple port; it’s a comprehensive archive of some of the most influential arcade shooters ever made. The base collection features six versions of these classic titles:

    • Flying Shark (Arcade – Worldwide version)
    • Sky Shark (Arcade – US version)
    • Hisho Same (Arcade – JP version)
    • Fire Shark (Arcade – Worldwide version)
    • Same! Same! Same! (Arcade – JP version)
    • Same! Same! Same! (Arcade – JP 2-Player version)

    Modern Features for Classic Gameplay

    While Toaplan games are notorious for their “rock-hard” difficulty, Clear River Games and M2 are making sure everyone can enjoy the carnage. The collection includes:

    • Super Easy Mode: Perfect for newcomers who want to experience the thrill without the game-over screen every thirty seconds.
    • Arcade Challenge & M2 Gadgets: For the veterans, these tools provide visual alerts for power-ups and “black spots,” helping you finally chase that elusive 1CC (One Coin Clear).
    • Online Leaderboards: Prove your worth against pilots globally.

    Bonus DLC and Physical Releases

    If six games aren’t enough, a DLC pack will also be available, adding seven additional titles, including the beloved arcade platformer Wardner and various console ports for the NES and SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive.

    In a fantastic move for collectors, Clear River Games has confirmed that a physical retail release will launch on the same day as the digital version.

    Pro Tip: If you already own any previous Toaplan Arcade Garage release, you’ll be able to download the 1991 match-five puzzler Teki-Paki for free!

    Whether you’re a grey-haired arcade veteran or a curious newcomer, 29th August is looking like a busy day for your thumbs. Keep it locked to TechMash for more retro updates!

    Are you planning to pick this up on Switch for portable play, or PS4 for the big screen experience?

    Find out more here – https://clearrivergames.com/toaplan-arcade-garage-flying-fire-shark.html

    #ClearRiverGames #retrogames #ToaplanArcadeGarage #FlyingFireShark #retroshootemup #PlayStation #NintendoSwitch #techmash #n5dave #gamingnews #videogames #gamers #gaming

  • Retro Assault Suit Leynos 2 Saturn Tribute Available Soon

    Retro Assault Suit Leynos 2 Saturn Tribute Available Soon

    Here is a chance to take a step back into gaming history with the release of the Assault Suit Leynos 2 Saturn Tribute game. This game was a classic in the 90s and was really only available in Japan, but now this classic will be available soon for the PlayStation and Nintendo Switch. In this game players choose their mech suit and weapons then it is time to take on the enemy, which is no easy task. Assault Suit Leynos 2 Saturn Tribute will be available on the PlayStation and the Nintendo Switch from the 21st of March.

    To find out more about the Assault Suit Leynos 2 Saturn Tribute game go to the official game website https://shorturl.at/Rmbfe or go to the games page on Steam here https://shorturl.at/2A9l3

    #AssaultSuitLeynos #SaturnTribute #Games #Gaming #SciFi #Robots #AssaultSuitLeynos2SaturnTribute #NewGames #Steam #PlayStation #NintendoSwitch #ClearRiverGames