Shmup
Ongoing coverage on Shmup.
Latest coverage
5 in 1 Arcade Vault Review | TheXboxHub
The 5 in 1 Arcade Vault collection for Xbox features five distinct games, but only Circle Defense is deemed worth experiencing. Bubble Fish and Tom4to are heavily criticized for their simplistic and unbalanced gameplay, while Garden Catcher and Holly's Hunt are considered serviceable but ultimately boring.
"Looks more like a Long Boi" - I accidentally created a Razer Game Boy using the 8Bitdo FlipPad, and its absurd length is actually great for TATE shmups
The 8Bitdo FlipPad controller, when paired with the Razer Edge handheld, creates an unusually long gaming device that excels at TATE mode shmups. While not compatible with all phones like the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro, this "Razer Game Boy" offers a larger play window than the Analogue Pocket for vertical shooters.
Review: Dark Scrolls (Nintendo Switch)
Dark Scrolls is a fantasy-themed action platformer for the Nintendo Switch that blends shmup-style chaos with roguelite progression. While it offers local and online co-op, the game suffers from a lack of originality and some frustrating gameplay mechanics, such as a strict one-life system and awkward controls for jumping and firing. Despite its charming aesthetic and decent audio, the overall execution is considered lackluster, making it an uninspiring but budget-friendly time-waster for fans of the genre.
VectaGuard Released
RetroNinja Games has released VectaGuard, a new arcade shmup that utilizes classic vector graphics. This marks the first independently developed game from the studio in three decades.
ZPF Review – Genesis of the Shmup
ZPF is a solid but unremarkable shmup for the Mega Drive, featuring a colorful 16-bit aesthetic and a choice of ships with different abilities. While it offers a significant challenge with limited lives and no continues, clunky controls and a lack of variety make it feel dated compared to other titles in the genre.
Space shooter Hyperwired gives you a ship with a doofy power cable hanging out the back and challenges you to keep its battery charged
Hyperwired, a top-down space shooter developed by Sidralgames, challenges players to manage their ship's battery by tethering to satellites while battling enemies. The game features procedurally generated levels, unlockable power-ups, and extensive ship and weapon customization. The full game is set to launch on July 2nd, with a demo available on Steam.
Devolver Digital, Doinksoft Launch Action Platforming Autoscroller Dark Scrolls with Limited Time Free Copies of Gunbrella, Gato Roboto – Out Now on PC and Nintendo Switch
Developer Doinksoft and publisher Devolver Digital have launched Dark Scrolls, a fantasy-themed action platformer with roguelite progression, on PC and Nintendo Switch. For a limited time, purchasing Dark Scrolls includes free copies of Gunbrella and Gato Roboto, along with a 10% launch discount.
Big Challenge! Dogfight Spirit
Big Challenge! Dogfight Spirit is a forgettable shmup for the Famicom Disk System that fails to innovate within the genre. Despite a challenging difficulty spike in its later levels, the game suffers from repetitive enemy designs and uninspired weapon mechanics. Ultimately, it offers a generic experience that is overshadowed by better shooters available on the NES.
The Raiden Fighters Remix Collection’s latest patch changes up the FPS to make things buttery smooth
The Raiden Fighters Remix Collection has received a new v1.1 patch, introducing a 54FPS rendering option alongside the standard 60FPS. This update aims to replicate the original arcade experience for retro enthusiasts, as many classic shmups ran at approximately 54-55 FPS. The patch also includes minor display bug fixes.
Toaplan Arcade Garage Flying Fire Shark Collection Launches August 29
Clear River Games announced the retro shmup collection Toaplan Arcade Garage: Flying Fire Shark for PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch, launching August 29, 2026. The collection features six arcade titles, including Flying Shark and Fire Shark, with added modes like Super Easy and Challenge Mode, plus M2 Gadgets support. Digital purchasers receive bonus DLC, and owners of other Toaplan Arcade Garage titles get the puzzle game Teki-Paki for free.
ZPF Review | TheXboxHub
ZPF is a retro-inspired horizontal-scrolling SHMUP that successfully captures the feel of classic games while standing on its own. Developed by Team ZPF, the game features challenging gameplay, multiple characters with unique abilities, and a striking pixel-perfect presentation with a chiptune soundtrack. Despite some minor menu and visual clarity issues, ZPF offers a hardcore experience that rewards player skill and nostalgia.
Hanii in the Sky
Hanii in the Sky is a quirky vertically scrolling shooter for the PC Engine developed by FACE, featuring cute visuals and a surprisingly punishing difficulty. The game's unique eight-directional aiming mechanic is hampered by the PC Engine controller's limitations, making precise control challenging. Despite its flaws, the game offers creative boss designs and abstract levels for those who can adapt to its demanding gameplay and acquire its unique taste.
Truxton Extreme Returns After 38 Years, Launching July 30, 2026 | Invision Game Community
Clear River Games and Tatsujin have announced that Truxton Extreme will launch on July 30, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PC. This marks the first new entry in the shmup series in 38 years, featuring music and design by original creator Masahiro Yuge and a story-driven comic narrative by Junya Inoue.
Hidden Gems of Game Design Vol 45
This article highlights several underappreciated games, including the puzzle game Spooky Express, the genre-bending Jail Dice: Roll to Break, the challenging roguelike shmup Rick Henderson, and the flawed but ambitious MMO Champions of Regnum. Each game is presented with its unique mechanics and appeal, encouraging readers to discover these hidden gems.
IREM game collections for me to collect ⊟
Tozai Games has announced five volumes of IREM game collections for Xbox, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch, with physical editions from Strictly Limited Games. The first volume includes the shmups Image Fight 1 and 2, and X Multiply, celebrating the defunct publisher's legacy.
IREM game collections for me to collect ⊟ - Tiny Cartridge 3DS
Tozai Games has announced five volumes of collected IREM games for Xbox, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch, with physical editions from Strictly Limited. The first release includes the shmups Image Fight 1 and 2, and X Multiply. The article expresses support for collections from the defunct publisher.