Retro shmup ZPF gets funded, coming to Sega Genesis and more

Retro shmup ZPF gets funded, coming to Sega Genesis and more

Publisher Mega Cat Studios and ZPF Team are working on a true retro shoot ’em up game called ZPF, and it’s planned for modern consoles and the Sega Genesis.

ZPF is in development for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, Windows PC (via Steam), and now both Xbox consoles and Switch thanks to its smashing-success Kickstarter that raised over 1000% over their funding goal.

Now that ZPF has been funded it’s locked in for a release sometime in early 2025 for PC, Xbox consoles, Switch, and even on physical cartridges that work on original Sega Genesis / Mega Drive hardware. There’s still time to back the game’s Kickstarter campaign if you want to get exclusive backer rewards.

Here’s a rundown on the game, plus a new trailer:

ZPF is a retro-inspired horizontal shooter for the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive. Blast your way through a cosmic gauntlet of epic boss battles, addictive scoring, and hidden secrets in a thrilling arcade-style adventure through fantasy, sci-fi, and alien-themed worlds.

Inspired by classic horizontal shooters like Lords of Thunder, Elemental Master, and the Thunderforce series, ZPF is a passion project from the designer and developer of Super XYX and Tänzer.

Features

  • 6+ Stages of Full-On Pixel Mayhem – Players will dodge and weave through intense bullet patterns, unleashing a barrage of firepower upon hordes of unique and challenging enemies.
  • Three Playable Characters – Choose your hero – from the teleporting trickster to the laser-wielding warrior! Each character boasts a distinct playstyle with unique shots and melee attacks.
  • Boss Battles – Brace yourself for epic encounters with mid and end-stage bosses, each demanding a different strategy to defeat.
  • Shop Buffs & Hints – Upgrade your arsenal and gain valuable tips between levels at each of the world’s in-game shops.
  • Secrets Galore – Finish every stage and discover a treasure trove of hidden secrets.