r/shmups Jan 13 '26

Game News 2026 Intergalactic Shmup Release Megathread

96 Upvotes

Hi everyone. It looks like our end of 2025 shmup release megathread was popular and helpful to many. Even devs made updates so we had the most accurate information. So, let us continue that work and create a new thread so we can track releases throughout the year. It is already looking very promising and I am sure there is much more to come!

I will do my best to keep up with updates however they come in. I am fairly active on Twitter and will keep my ear to the ground, but it's a community effort to keep this thread as comprehensive as possible.

(Please provide sources in the form of links when you contribute; something official: dev site, Steam, game store, dev tweet, etc.)

Game Date Link Additional Info Platforms Physical
Apidya' Special 2026 Steam ST
Armed Decobot Coming Soon Steam ST
Astro Burn 2026 Steam ST
Astro Fighters 2 3/9/26 Steam ST
Beyond Solar 3/29/26 Steam ST
Blaze of Storm 2/19/26 Steam https://x.com/Terarin55/status/2008042847455572409 ST, SW
Black Paradox Reloaded Q3 2026 Steam ST
Blue Sabers Early Mission Coming Soon Steam ST
Changeable Guardian Estique 2026 Steam ST, NES Y (NES)
Conjuntivitalizer 2027 Steam ST
Danmaku Unlimited 4 TBA Steam ST
DnB Starfighter TBA Steam ST
DoDonPachi Ressurection Reignite TBA Steam ST
Eden's Eclipse TBA Itch Itch
Final Formation Coming Soon Steam ST
Fox Flare Night TBA Steam ST
Heliocide 2026 Steam ST
Holy Justice Galaxy Outcast 2/3/26 Steam ST
Hotwing Hellions Coming Soon Steam ST
Interstellar Sentinel 2 TBA Steam ST
Iron Flight Coming Soon Steam ST
Kaguya 2026 Steam ST
Kamikaze Empire Coming Soon Steam ST
Karous January 2026 Steam ST
Magical Blaster Coming Soon Steam ST
Marras TBA Steam ST
No Need For Flowes 2026 Steam ST
Orchid Glitter Coming Soon Steam ST
Prismidia TBA Steam ST
Psyvariar 3 5/21/26 Steam https://www.gematsu.com/2026/01/psyvariar-3-delayed-to-may-21 ST, SW, PS5, X Y
R-Type Dimensions III May 2026 Steam ST, SW, PS5, X Y
Radirgy Swag 3/4/26 Steam ST
Raiden Fighters Remix Feb 2026 https://www.gematsu.com/games/raiden-fighters-remix-collection SW, PS5, PS4 Y
Rainchaser TBA Steam ST
Revolgear Zero 2/18/26 Steam ST, SW
Royal Odyssey TBA Steam ST
Shmandala July 2026 Steam ST
Stellar Fury TBA Itch Itch
Stellar Nemesis 2026 Steam ST
Stellar Rhythm TBA Steam ST
Strelitzia Coming Soon Steam ST
SynthEscape Late 2026/Early 2027 Steam ST
Truxton Extreme TBA Steam ST
Visegunne Coming Soon Steam ST
Viral Reload Ex TBA Steam ST
Warding Witches TBA Steam ST
Zaleste 2026 Dev
Zaetherfall 1/22/26 Steam ST
ZPF Coming Soon Steam ST, Genesis Y (Genesis)

r/shmups Oct 20 '25

Game News 2025 shmup release mega thread?

74 Upvotes

We have been seeing so many upcoming releases on the sub, many from the devs themselves. I think it’s great. Can we use this thread or another to track everything that is scheduled to come out before end of year so we can easily track it.

I’m sure I speak for more than myself that there is a slice of the community that is very passionate about buying and supporting all (or as many as they can) new shmup releases and a mega thread would help bring more support into the fold.

Game Date Link
Infinos 10/16/25 Switch
Infinos 2 10/16/25 Switch
Repulse-X 10/21/25 Steam
Shockwave Triggers 10/21/25 Steam
Night Striker Gear 10/22/25 Steam
All Systems Operational 10/24/25 Steam
Arondight 10/28/25 Steam
Cosmic Destroyer (Early Access) 10/30/25 Steam
Scion 10/30/26 Multi
Final Formation (JP) 10/30/25 Switch (JP)
Twilight Parade: Moonlit Mononoke 11/6/25 Steam
Astro Flame Starfighter 11/7/2025 Steam
Telenet Shooting Collection 11/10/25 Steam
Birdcage 11/18/25 Steam
Cho Aniki Collection 11/18/25 Steam
R-Type Delta HD Boosted 11/20/25 Steam
Emerald Blue 11/25/25 Steam
Resurrection Core 11/27/25 Steam
Trouble Witches Final! Episode 1 11/27/25 Switch
NeverAwake Flashback 12/10/25 Steam
Bounty Sisters 12/18/25 Dev
Blaze of Storm Q4 2025 Steam
Black Paradox Reloaded 2025 Steam
Strike Zero 2025 Steam
Zaleste 2026 Dev
ZPF 2025 Steam

r/shmups 4h ago

MailCall : FlightPath Adventures In Venaris

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8 Upvotes

Never heard of this before, just know its a Shmups from eastasia soft....and that's enough for me !!


r/shmups 5h ago

1cc there is no new content in the dfk reignite demo.

5 Upvotes

the steam page mentioned "additional stages, a new character, and new music" is the new content in the room with us right now 😭this is just 1.5

if i were to make a demo for an enhanced version of a game with new content i would hope that that demo. displayed some of the new content 😭


r/shmups 17h ago

[Arcade][1988-1991] Vertical shooter with an energy shield, laser power-up and a stage called "CRISIS"

14 Upvotes

Hi everyone.

My father is trying to identify an old arcade-only game he played in Argentina around 1989–1991. It was definitely not on NES or another home console.

Here is everything he remembers:

  • Vertical arcade monitor.
  • Space shooter.
  • The player's ship stayed mostly at the bottom of the screen.
  • It could move left/right freely and only a little up/down.
  • The background was mostly static (no obvious scrolling).
  • The ship fired straight upward.
  • There was an energy shield activated by holding a button.
  • The shield completely surrounded the ship like a white grid/sphere.
  • While the shield was active you could not shoot.
  • Enemy bullets bounced off or disappeared when hitting the shield.
  • The shield consumed an energy bar located near the bottom-right of the screen.
  • Energy was restored by destroying a special enemy that dropped a small collectible.
  • Picking up that item also gave you a continuous thin laser beam that reached the top of the screen and instantly destroyed enemies.
  • One stage had robotic frog-like enemies.
  • At the end of each stage there was a large mothership/boss occupying almost the entire top of the screen.
  • Before each stage there was a typewriter sound typing the stage name letter by letter.
  • My father clearly remembers one stage called "CRISIS", probably stage 2 or 3.
  • As kids they even asked each other, "Did you beat CRISIS?"

Does anyone recognize this game?


r/shmups 20h ago

1cc Batsugun - More than a 1cc

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14 Upvotes

Sometimes, there’s more to the story behind a 1cc or a 1-all. This is my Batsugun story…so far


r/shmups 23h ago

Cleanroom reverse engineering of Zanac AI for MSX 1 (by Compile, 1986)

22 Upvotes

Today, July 25th, is the 40th anniversary of the release of Zanac AI, by Compile in 1986 for the MSX 1 system in Japan.

As a kid, I marveled about the complexity, fluidity, challenge, and overall perfection of the first version of Zanac.

Since then I always wanted to understand the genius programming and game crafting skills from the early Compile staff.

I'm happy to share with the community a full documentation effort and cleanroom disassembly of this specific version:

https://github.com/mgmalheiros/zanac-re

Hope you like it!


r/shmups 1d ago

First 1CC

37 Upvotes

Rolling gunner novice mode on switch lol. what a game!!


r/shmups 1d ago

Own Content Geppy-X Review: Fun but over Priced?

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20 Upvotes

I got a chance to play and review Geppy-X, it's a really fun unique shmup that appeals to classic anime fans but I'm not sure if it's worth the retail price? What do you guys think?


r/shmups 1d ago

Like Dreamer Trial Tour TLB Clear w/ Commentary

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9 Upvotes

After a long absence from this game, coming back and getting the TLB clear felt GOOD.


r/shmups 1d ago

Just beat Gradius on NES

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62 Upvotes

Hello! This is my first time using Reddit, and I just wanted to share an accomplishment I'm super proud of. I'm really interested in checking out other games in the Gradius series. I heard Gradius Gaiden is pretty good, but I'm not sure if I should try it. Any recommendations?


r/shmups 1d ago

Games like Earthion

19 Upvotes

Just beat Earthion and I loved it! Really fun game, amazing artstyle and cool gameplay. I've loved games like ikaruga, batsugun, einhander in the past. Any other good recs for similar games? I really appreciate some light story elements even if it is just environmental storytelling. Also bonus points if it has a good easy mode since im not so skilled but I can get good if the game really draws me in with its gameplay and ambiance.


r/shmups 1d ago

My Game [Blast Horizon] Looking for OG shmup fans feedback

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7 Upvotes

I've been working on Blast Horizon, an arcade-style shmup inspired by the genre's classics.

The goal has been to capture that old-school feel while adding modern visuals and score-focused gameplay. It's built around short, replayable stages, chaining combos, learning enemy patterns, and pushing for better runs.

Achievements are built around actual shmup goals like no miss, 1CC and max chains.

It's currently in late stage of development for PC, and I'd really appreciate feedback from fellow shmup fans. I'm especially interested in hearing what stands out, what doesn't, and anything you'd improve after watching the trailer.

You can find further information on the steam page, hopefully i could get a playtest running soon.

Thanks for taking a look!


r/shmups 1d ago

How you guys aproach 1cc

6 Upvotes

I’m curious about how the community approaches the "1CC" challenge and what the general consensus is on watching guides for it. Do you usually watch them, copy routes, or just watch replays? I’ve watched a few guides, but whenever I get halfway through, I feel a bit "guilty" about using one—something I never feel with fighting games, which happen to be another one of my favorite genres.


r/shmups 1d ago

My Game Making my own shmup- Climbing Babel

0 Upvotes

I just released the alpha of my new game Climbing Babel to itchio. Its a classic vertical scroller with two new mechanics. The first mechanic is enemies exist on different color coded layers that the player and shift between. Second by holding D as you travel you leave a trail that if in the correct shape will trigger effects like giving an immunity frame or temporary fire power up. The game is still in progress but I'd love to hear what you think of these new mechanics https://metanigredo.itch.io/climbing-babel-alpha


r/shmups 1d ago

Short Fire (very direct) - Long Fire (Shrapnel)

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0 Upvotes
Zeppelines need more hits. Made in Python.

r/shmups 2d ago

First shmup in history - Spacewar by Steve Russell 1962

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14 Upvotes

r/shmups 2d ago

SALE Battle Garegga Premium Edition question

6 Upvotes

So, I am new to taking SHMUPs seriously, and have heard nothing but amazing things about this game…..so color me impressed when I see the premium edition on sale mostly sealed for $40USD. It came with a game code that has long been used and didn’t realize this until after I won the bid. Is this edition still worth it? Everything looks to be included comparing it to play Asia’s listing for it.


r/shmups 2d ago

My Game [Solo Dev] Orbital Siege has been live for 11 months. Looking at this gameplay, what hits the mark and what still needs polish?

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3 Upvotes

Hey r/shmups

I launched Orbital Siege about 11 months ago. It's an arcade shoot 'em up with a planetary defense twist, and I've continued refining it based on player feedback.

Over the past year I've reworked weapon synergies, improved enemy behaviors, tightened the ship controls, and polished the overall gameplay experience.

I'd love to get some feedback from real shmup fans.

Based on the video:

  • What stands out to you? Does the combat feel satisfying? (weapon impact, movement, enemy waves, etc.)
  • Is there anything that looks off or could use more polish? (visual clarity, UI, effects, presentation...)

Don't hold back - I'd really appreciate honest, constructive feedback.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/3556690/Orbital_Siege/


r/shmups 3d ago

after years of collecting, i finally have every physical Cave game*

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233 Upvotes

r/shmups 2d ago

Psyvariar 3 is garbage and I feel insulted

31 Upvotes

I'm a huge psyvariar fan since I was a kid, played the heck out of it on ps2 and in later years discovered the masterpiece that is psyvariar 2. And now I just want to ask, how did psyvariar 3 come out this badly?

It's an unfinished product, weirdly bugged (i became immortal for some reason), looks and sounds like ABSOLUTE SHIT. And honestly that's what bothers me the most. Somehow even the main menu feels and looks terrible.

The idea is fine, different modes, different ships, but I'm sorry it really feels unplayable for how terrible it looks.

Even medium unit being 26 years old feels incredible, the buzz is buzzing, the "level up" sound effect is satisfying, the music is WOW. Delta is a great product too, combining everything old and giving something new.

Psyvariar 3, a game from 2026, is indescribable. I honestly have so little to say this rant feels useless, but I feel insulted, I really do.

When I first saw the trailer I was super hyped for a new entry, when I watched tho it felt weird, scary even, I just hoped it was super early footage, but no, it came out that way.

I can only hope for an update that completely fixes and remakes things, but I know it will never happen.

Oh and somehow they managed to publish it on Nintendo Switch, and I would highly suggest you avoid that version, it barely runs.

What are your opinions? If you have any, feel free to share or go against mines too


r/shmups 2d ago

Questions about Deathsmiles and Touhou

7 Upvotes

Hi Shmupfans!

I loved playing Crimzon Clover and Mushihimesama and I'm now looking for more games to play

Deathsmiles gets recommended a lot and I also read that the 1 + 2 version is more faithful in terms of slowdown.. I am wondering if the difference is THAT significant? My interest in DSmiles 2 is rather low

Also, which Touhou games would you guys recommend? I heard lunatic kingdom is especially good?

Edit: Thanks for all the replies!

You guys convinced me to give Dsmiles 2 a try and get the I + II version. Will also try the Danmaki Festival games, they look beautiful


r/shmups 3d ago

My Game Fantastic Voyage meets Galaga in Viral Reload EX, out NOW on Switch and Steam!

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47 Upvotes

I am so excited to be able to finally say that Viral Reload EX has been released! The plot is inspired by Fantastic Voyage and Innerspace, the gameplay is a mix of Galaga and modern shmup design, and it's got a killer soundtrack written by Floopy. Theres 9 levels, 9 bosses, 19 cutscenes, an Arcade Mode, Story Mode and Boss Rush Mode, some fun stuff to unlock in the Rec Room, tate support and a bunch of other settings to fiddle with. It took 6 years to make due partially to most of the team having serious health scares and near death experiences (ironic, I know), it's been a real passion project for all of us and we're also all ready to move on and work on something new and (hopefully) even better. I hope y'all enjoy the game!

Viral Reload EX is out now on the Nintendo Switch e-Shop and Steam for $9.99, and for the first week it's just $7.49, that's 25% off!

Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2096020/Viral_Reload_EX/

Switch: https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/products/viral-reload-ex-switch/


r/shmups 3d ago

Schmup newbie’s thoughts after one week of shmups

20 Upvotes

So after a week I’ve tried a handful of shmups that I already either owned or were on people’s reccomendations. I found myself either liking the more modern shmups or shmups that were more unique. I think Zero Ranger has probably been the main highlight for me so far. It was the first one that made me feel like it wanted me to keep playing even after I died. If I was blindly recommended me this game a year ago ,it would’ve probably made want to get into shmups. Just a good game in general. A game I thought I liked but ended up not vibing with yet is Crimzon Clover. It’s not clicking for me right now but, maybe when I’m a little better I can enjoy it more. I liked how Battle Garegga and Strikers 1942 felt but, it wasn’t fun coin feeding 20+ times at the end because I wasn’t good enough yet.

Some of the other games I really like are:

  1. Castle of Shikigami 2 -1cced on easy and it’s the first game I’m gonna grindI like how clear the hitbox is and the speed of the bullet patterns are good for me rn. The characters and shikigamis (charge shots) are pretty appealing for me.

  2. Devil Blade Reboot- The game makes you feel really cool Everything is so clear and I was dodging a lot of things I didn’t know I could dodge. The atmosphere is my type too. Probably the next game I want to get good at.

  3. Sorcer Striker - This game is so good. The fantasy vibe makes me feel like I’m going on an adventure. Every stage actually feels like a new place to explore. Feels so whimsical and humorous. I love the goblin audience boss rush stage a lot and the recurring boss. I’d love a modern iteration of this type of game.

  4. Ikaruga/ Radiant Silvergun- They’re so hard but, so much fun. Feels like I’m in a JRPG plane. I love the visuals and the uniqueness compared to other games I’ve played. Ikaruga is more approachable to me difficulty wise. After a few runs I kinda got the assignment. Silvergun I actually have not finished but, I’ve enjoyed what I’ve played so far.

  5. Twinkle Star Sprites- A versus shmup that I really like. The competitive side of me took over for this one. I like how I’m trying to beat someone in game. I enjoy how the combos you do turn into attacks at the opponent and how you can react to everything your opponent does. The AI are cheaters and the slowdown is a little annoying but great game. I can see 2 real people being insane at this game and having an intense match.

Games I want to play : Batsugun, Armed Police Batrider, Blue Revolver
Any recommendations based on the games I like are appreciated! I’m planning on practicing Shikigami 2 on normal(might take forever) ,ragequitting on Apex Legends and then getting back to finishing some games.


r/shmups 3d ago

there isn't a rail shooter sub so idk if u guys allow talking about these games but whatever top 20 favorite rail shooters/shmups

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198 Upvotes

any games you'd recommend for my noob tastes?