TECHMASH

Tag: #Shmup

  • Bullet-Hell Meets Dungeon Scroller: ‘Dark Scrolls’ is Out Now on PC and Switch!

    Bullet-Hell Meets Dungeon Scroller: ‘Dark Scrolls’ is Out Now on PC and Switch!

    If you’ve spent any time enjoying the monochromatic mech-cat madness of Gato Roboto or the gritty, action-packed mechanics of Gunbrella, you already know that developer Doinksoft doesn’t miss. Now, they are back alongside the chaotic-good publishers at Devolver Digital to drop their next retro-infused obsession: Dark Scrolls.

    The fantasy-themed action platformer has officially landed on PC and Nintendo Switch, and it’s bringing an absolute whirlwind of shmup-style chaos for the incredibly friendly price of just $9.99.

    Check out the official launch trailer below to see what you’re up against:

    What is Dark Scrolls?

    Imagine the relentless, forced side-scrolling pressure of arcade classics like SonSon or Super Ghouls ‘n Ghosts, fused seamlessly with modern roguelite progression and bullet-hell adrenaline. That is the formula for Dark Scrolls.

    The game drops you into procedurally generated runs stitched together from hand-crafted dungeon rooms. The screen advances automatically, forcing you to think on your feet, dodge waves of projectiles, and take down brutal screen-filling bosses before the environment itself crushes you.

    Key Features to Expect:

    • Arcade Shmup Chaos: This isn’t your typical slow-paced dungeon crawler. You’ll need razor-sharp reflexes to survive hordes of enemies firing patterns that wouldn’t look out of place in a classic shoot-’em-up.
    • A Wild Rogue’s Gallery: You start with a few basic heroes—like a spell-slinging Mage or a burly Berserker, but you can eventually unlock a roster of 9 playable characters. Yes, that includes a cute dog and a saxophone-playing rat. Each has entirely unique weapons, movement styles, and trinkets.
    • Local & Online Co-op: Don’t want to brave the darkness alone? Bring a friend along via local or online co-op to chain elemental powers together, combine perk builds, and revive each other when the screen inevitably gets too hectic.
    • The “Rage” Mechanic: Collect coins during your runs to buy powerful perks from the in-stage merchants, Bruce & Goose. These upgrades stack to unlock screen-wiping abilities tied to a unique star/rage meter.

    Bonus Launch Day Treat: If you are picking up the game on Steam, keep an eye out for the Dark Scrolls Launch Bundle. Devolver is currently running a promotion where you can score Doinksoft’s previous hits, Gato Roboto and Gunbrella, alongside the new release for an absolute steal!

    The TechMash Verdict

    For under a tenner, Dark Scrolls is a no-brainer for indie game lovers looking for a fast, punchy, and highly repeatable challenge to share with a friend. It looks like a classic 8-bit game of yore, but plays with the modern responsiveness and mechanical depth you expect from a premium Devolver joint.

    Dark Scrolls is available right now on Steam and the Nintendo eShop for $9.99.

    Find out more here

    #DarkScrolls #Doinksoft #DevolverDigital #IndieGames #NintendoSwitch #PCGaming #GamingNews #Roguelite #Shmup #TechMash

  • Crash the Yokai Party: Twilight Parade: Moonlit Mononoke Gets a Physical PS5 Release This July!

    Crash the Yokai Party: Twilight Parade: Moonlit Mononoke Gets a Physical PS5 Release This July!

    Physical game collectors and retro enthusiasts, clear some space on your shelves! Funbox Media Ltd has officially announced that they are bringing the vibrant, chaotic world of Twilight Parade: Moonlit Mononoke to the PlayStation 5 in a physical edition.

    Mark your calendars: this physical release is set to drop across Europe and the Americas on July 31, 2026.

    If you love nostalgic pixel art, chaotic bullet-hell action, and quirky Japanese folklore, this is one launch you won’t want to skip.

    What is Twilight Parade: Moonlit Mononoke?

    Originally released digitally by Eastasiasoft and developed by Super16bits, Twilight Parade: Moonlit Mononoke is a side-scrolling bullet-hell shoot-’em-up (SHMUP) that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

    The premise is simple but hilarious: Every year, the spirits and monsters of Japan take to the streets to celebrate the Hyakki Yagy? (the Night Parade of the Hundred Yokai). But this year? They intentionally didn’t invite the rowdy Oni twins. Naturally, the only logical response is to crash the party and completely ruin it!

    Key Features:

    • Playable Yokai Heroines: Take control of four beautiful pixel-art characters—including the sweet-loving Blue Oni Sister and the hot-headed Red Oni Sister—each featuring their own distinct companion assistant (and yes, beachwear variants!).
    • Retro Bullet-Hell Action: Battle your way through 5 chaotic, yokai-infested levels.
    • Massive Boss Fights: Face down giant, screen-filling bosses at the end of every stage.
    • Accessible Fun: With gorgeous 16-bit retro aesthetics and an infinite continue system, it’s a blast for hardcore arcade veterans and SHMUP newcomers alike.

    A Packed 3-in-1 Disc: The Bonus Games!

    Funbox Media Ltd isn’t just giving us a standard physical release; they are packing the disc with incredible value. To complement the main game, the physical edition includes two fantastic bonus games right on the disc:

    1. Tiny Pixels Vol. 1 – Ninpo Blast: A fast-paced, retro vertical shoot-’em-up where you’ll fight off swarms of mythical insect baddies using shurikens, bombs, and hoverbikes. It features permanent weapon upgrades and online leaderboards for the ultimate arcade chase.
    2. Overpowered 1 – Mars Infestation: Ready for a change of scenery? Jump into the year 2050 in this top-down, twin-stick sci-fi shooter. Exterminate aggressive alien threats on Mars using over-the-top firepower, fluid pixel art animations, and a pumping soundtrack.

    “This release celebrates not only a wonderful main title, but also includes two fantastic bonus games that showcase diverse gameplay styles. It’s a great value package and a must-have for collectors.” — Funbox Media Ltd

    Final Thoughts

    In a digital-first era, physical releases like this are a true love letter to collectors. By bundling a beautiful side-scrolling SHMUP with a vertical ninja-themed shooter and a twin-stick sci-fi survival game, Funbox Media is offering massive arcade variety in one single box.

    Keep your eyes peeled for pre-orders at your favourite retailers ahead of the July 31, 2026, launch date!

    Are you planning to add this to your PS5 physical collection? Which character are you choosing first? Let us know in the comments below!

    Find out more here

    #GamingNews #PS5 #PhysicalGames #TwilightParade #SHMUP #BulletHell #RetroGaming #FunboxMedia #IndieGames #Yokai #TechMash

  • Buggin’ Out! 90s Shmup Legend ‘Apidya Special’ Buzzes Onto Consoles and PC This August (Pre-Orders Open!)

    Buggin’ Out! 90s Shmup Legend ‘Apidya Special’ Buzzes Onto Consoles and PC This August (Pre-Orders Open!)

    Get your flight sticks and reflexes ready, retro fans, because one of the most unique shoot-’em-ups of the Amiga golden era is officially making a modern comeback!

    ININ Games has announced that pre-orders are now officially open for Apidya Special. Developed by Team Apidya, this modern revival of the beloved 1992 insectoid classic is set to swarm PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch on August 25, 2026.

    From Amiga Icon to Modern Marvel

    For the uninitiated, Apidya wasn’t your typical 90s sci-fi shooter. Instead of piloting a sleek starship through deep space to blast alien armadas, players were shrunk down and cast as Ikuro, a man transformed into a deadly honeybee on a fierce quest to save his bride from an evil sorcerer.

    You swapped lasers for stingers and fought through beautifully detailed, bio-organic worlds filled with hyper-aggressive wasps, giant spiders, and mutated pond life. It stood out for its incredible art style, tight mechanics, and a legendary, pumping chiptune soundtrack by Chris Huelsbeck.

    What to Expect in the ‘Special’ Edition

    While ININ Games is keeping some of the finest details under wraps, Apidya Special promises to bring the sting back with a host of modern upgrades:

    • Pixel-Perfect Enhancements: Beautifully preserved retro aesthetics optimised for modern 4K displays and handheld screens alike.
    • Quality-of-Life Features: Expect modern staples like rewind features, save states, and customizable controls to help you survive the brutal, old-school difficulty.
    • Cross-Platform Launch: Whether you prefer the portability of the Switch, the raw power of the PS5 and Xbox, or the classic feel of a PC setup, you won’t be left behind.

    Secure Your Nest: Pre-Order Details

    With the release date locked in for August 25, 2026, digital pre-orders are rolling out across the PlayStation Store, Xbox Game Store, Nintendo eShop, and Steam.

    If you’re a fan of classic Kaiko and Team17-era Amiga gems, or just a shmup enthusiast looking for a unique flavour of bullet-hell, this is one revival you don’t want to miss.

    Are you ready to buzz back into battle? Head over to your platform’s storefront to lock in your copy today!

    Find out more here

    #ApidyaSpecial #ININGames #RetroGaming #Shmup #AmigaClassic #GamingNews #IndieGames #NintendoSwitch #PS5 #Xbox #PCGaming #TechMash

  • Bydo Alert: 7 Days to Launch for R-Type Dimensions III — Prepare for Departure!

    Bydo Alert: 7 Days to Launch for R-Type Dimensions III — Prepare for Departure!

    Get your flight suits ready and your reflexes sharpened, because the Bydo Empire is making its return! We are officially one week away from the digital launch of R-Type Dimensions III, arriving on May 19, 2026.

    Whether you’re a veteran pilot from the 1987 arcade era or a newcomer looking for a challenge that doesn’t hold your hand, this latest entry from ININ Games and Tozai Games is shaping up to be the definitive way to experience the legendary “The Third Lightning.”

    What’s New in Dimensions III?

    This isn’t just a simple port. R-Type Dimensions III is a ground-up reimagining of the SNES classic R-Type III: The Third Lightning. The developers have poured a massive amount of love into this “Evolution,” ensuring it hits that sweet spot between retro nostalgia and modern polish.

    • Rebuilt 3D Graphics: Every stage, boss (yes, including the terrifying Dobkeratops), and projectile has been reconstructed with high-end 3D assets.
    • The “Dimensions” Toggle: Much like the previous Dimensions collections, you can swap between the stunning new 3D visuals and the original 16-bit pixel art at the press of a button.
    • New Survival & Scoring Mechanics: Local co-op returns with enhanced features, allowing you and a friend to take on the alien threat together with updated scoring systems and a new Advanced Mode.
    • Quality-of-Life Upgrades: From customizable controls to a “Crazy” 3D camera setting, the game is more accessible than ever—though the legendary difficulty remains for those who want it.

    Digital vs. Physical: The Rollout Plan

    While the digital hype train is full steam ahead for May 19th, physical collectors have a slightly different flight path.

    EditionRelease DateNotes
    Digital (All Platforms)May 19, 2026Available on Steam, Xbox, PS5, and Switch (including Switch 2).
    Physical Standard/SpecialAugust 11, 2026Delayed to ensure the latest build is on-disc with no “Day One” patch.
    Collector’s EditionWinter 2026Includes a premium figure crafted by W?t? Workshop.

    Note for Physical Pre-orders: If you pre-ordered a physical copy via the ININ Store but can’t wait to play, check your email! ININ is offering digital keys to eligible customers so you can start your mission on launch day.

    The Legacy Continues

    R-Type has always been the “thinking person’s” shooter. It’s not just about spraying bullets; it’s about mastering the Force—that indestructible glowing orb that serves as both your shield and your greatest weapon. Dimensions III brings the R-90 Ragnarok into the modern era, and we can’t wait to see how it feels on the latest hardware, especially with the enhanced performance on the Nintendo Switch 2.

    The digital version is priced at $34.99 / €34.99, making it an essential pickup for Shmup fans looking to fill their May calendar with some high-octane alien blasting.

    Are you ready to face the Bydo once more? Let us know in the comments which graphics mode you’ll be playing in!

    Find out more here – https://s.team/a/4165620

    #TozaiGames #ININGames #RTypeDimensionsIII #Shmup #scifi #aliens #techmash #n5dave #gamingnews #videogames #gaming #gamers #games

  • Ready to clear some space-debt? The Cole Hunter: Payback demo is out now

    Ready to clear some space-debt? The Cole Hunter: Payback demo is out now

    Developed by Oldways Studios, this title is a high-octane blend of classic side-scrolling shoot ’em ups and modern roguelite progression. If you’ve ever wondered what R-Type would feel like if it had a baby with Enter the Gungeon—and then that baby grew up to owe a lot of money to a space syndicate—this is it.

    The Breakdown

    • The Vibe: Gritty space-opera with retro pixel art and a “snarky drone” sidekick. Think Firefly meets bullet hell.
    • The Hook: You play as Captain Cole Hunter, an outlaw pilot who is deeply in debt. Every run is a chance to chip away at that balance—or default in a blaze of glory.
    • Gameplay Loop: 5–10 minute combat runs. You scavenge enemy cores mid-combat to evolve your ship’s arsenal, creating “broken” power combos.
    • Risk vs. Reward: A dynamic “Heat Map” tracks your debt. The longer you wait to pay, the more elite Syndicate enforcers will hunt you down.

    Why You Should Play the Demo

    The demo offers a taste of the Implant System, where you can unlock branching perks and synergies. It’s built for “one-more-run” sessions, featuring tight controls that the developers strongly recommend playing with a controller.

    Pro-Tip: Keep an eye on your “magnetic pickups.” Scrapping for cores is essential for survival, but diving into a bullet swarm to grab one is how most pilots meet their end.

    Platform: PC (Windows/macOS) Full Release: Early Access coming later in Q1 2026.

    Find out more here – https://colehunterpayback.com

    #ColeHunterPayback #demo #Steam #bountyhunter #pixelart

    #OldwaysStudios #Retro #2D #shmup #roguelite #spaceoutlaw #wishlist #games #gaming #gamers #videogames

  • Step into the Nightmare: A Look Back at NeverAwake FLASHBACK

    Step into the Nightmare: A Look Back at NeverAwake FLASHBACK

    Remember those games that burrowed into your brain, challenging your reflexes and leaving you with a strange sense of accomplishment mixed with existential dread? Well, get ready to dive back into that feeling with NeverAwake FLASHBACK, a game that’s not just a journey through a nightmare, but a nostalgic trip through game design itself.

    FLASHBACK isn’t just a re-release; it’s a curated experience that highlights the brilliance of the original NeverAwake. For those unfamiliar, NeverAwake casts you as a young girl named Rem, trapped in a recurring nightmare populated by the very things she despises – vegetables, dogs, dentists, you name it. Your goal? To survive, collect her “soul” (a collection of orbs), and ultimately wake up. Sounds simple, right? Think again.

    What made NeverAwake so compelling, and what FLASHBACK emphasises, is its unique blend of bullet-hell action, rogue-lite elements, and a hauntingly beautiful aesthetic. The game throws increasingly complex patterns of enemies and projectiles at you, demanding precision and quick thinking. But it’s not just about dodging; it’s about strategic movement, weapon upgrades, and understanding the subtle nuances of each boss encounter.

    A Visual and Auditory Feast (or Fright!)

    One of the first things that strikes you about NeverAwake is its art style. It’s a gorgeous, hand-drawn dreamscape that oscillates between whimsical and genuinely unsettling. From the swirling, psychedelic backgrounds to the grotesque yet oddly charming enemy designs, every frame is a piece of art.

    The audio design complements this perfectly, with a soundtrack that’s both ethereal and anxiety-inducing, perfectly reflecting the dreamlike quality of Rem’s struggle.

    More Than Just a Bullet-Hell

    While the bullet-hell mechanics are certainly a core part of the experience, NeverAwake FLASHBACK offers so much more. The rogue-lite elements mean that each run feels fresh, with different weapon combinations and upgrades available. You might discover a new synergy that completely changes your approach to a previously impossible boss. This constant experimentation and learning are what keep you coming back for “just one more run.”

    And let’s not forget the bosses themselves. Oh, the bosses. They are truly the stuff of nightmares, each with unique attack patterns and weaknesses to uncover. From giant, angry vegetables to a terrifying dentist’s drill, these encounters are intense, challenging, and incredibly satisfying to overcome.

    Why Play FLASHBACK Now?

    For those who missed the original, FLASHBACK is the perfect entry point. It’s a chance to experience a truly unique and memorable game that defies easy categorisation. For veterans of NeverAwake, FLASHBACK offers a chance to revisit Rem’s nightmare with potentially enhanced features, quality-of-life improvements, or even new content that makes the journey feel fresh all over again.

    In a gaming landscape often saturated with familiar genres, NeverAwake FLASHBACK stands out as a testament to creative vision and challenging gameplay. It’s a game that will test your skills, immerse you in a fantastical world, and leave you pondering the strange and wonderful things that lurk in our subconscious. So, if you’re ready to face your fears (and maybe some broccoli monsters), dive into NeverAwake FLASHBACK. Just try not to lose too much sleep!

    NeverAwake FLASHBACK https://neverawake.neotro.jp

    #NeverAwakeFLASHBACK #NeverAwake #FLASHBACK #games #gaming #gamers #action #shooter #arcade #SHMUP #roguelite #PCgame #NeotroInc #PhoenixxInc

  • Lilac 0 new SHMUP Launches On Steam

    Lilac 0 new SHMUP Launches On Steam

    Take a trip back in time with the Lilac 0 game, no we are not talking about time travel as such, we are talking about game history as this game has all the looks and feel of a retro game, but it has all the benefits of being a new game. The game is basically a shmup that comes with that essential classic arcade feel everything that you want from the game and much more. The Lilac O game is available right now for PC on Steam.

    To find out more about the Lilac 0 game go to the official game website here https://digerati.games or go to the games page on Steam here https://shorturl.at/3UYUS

    #Lilac0 #SHMUP #Steam #VictorPouderoux #Digerati #STG #Games #Gaming #ArcadeGames #Warriors #Steam #SciFi #NewGames #Molybdion #PixelArt #Robots

  • Retaliate the retro vertical shooter game

    Retaliate the retro vertical shooter game

    You might think that Retaliate is very similar to the likes of Space Invaders, but this game is a bit different as you start the game with no ammo, you must use your shields to deflect the enemy fire back into the alien fleet and as your ship absorbs the energy the ammo begins to build and then you can begin firing back. Yet as we know this is not an easy game to play the aliens have the advantage and you must keep moving and firing in order to survive the onslaught. Retaliate is coming soon to the Playstation, Xbox, and on Steam are you ready to stop the invasion?

    Find out more about the Retaliate game here on Steam https://store.steampowered.com/app/2828210/Retaliate/ or on the Romans I XVI Gaming website here http://romansixvigaming.com/

    #Retaliate #indiegames #retrogames #shmup #newgame #scifi #Playstation #Xbox #Steam #RomansIXVIGaming #SpaceInvaders #retrogames #verticalshooter #gamers #gaming #games

  • Retaliate Available on Steam Xbox PlayStation Now

    Retaliate Available on Steam Xbox PlayStation Now

    When you see this game in action you are probably going to think that you have seen it somewhere else before and the chances you have, for it closely resembles the arcade space invader game that we all used to play a long time ago and for some strange reason that is a good thing, the classics are always worth revisiting aren’t they? This however is a game called Retaliate and is available on Steam, Xbox and PlayStation so why not give it a go and see just what games we used to play in the good old days, we know that you are curious as to what we all used to get up to and here is your chance, are you ready to Retaliate?

    Find out more about the Retaliate game here on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2828210/Retaliate/ on the Xbox: https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/store/retaliate/9n8l3sg7xzh5 and on the PlayStation: https://store.playstation.com/en-us/concept/10008228

    #RomansIXVIGaming #Retaliate #indiegames #retrogames #shmup #SciFi #NewGames #Steam #Xbox #PlayStation #Intergalactic #Adventure #Strategy #Action #Gaming #Gamers #Games

  • Dogfight Demo On Steam Next Fest

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