Publisher Pikii has just announced that they will be releasing a limited-run physical edition of the classic shoot ‘em up Ikaruga. The limited edition will be made available for the PlayStation 4 and the Nintendo Switch on September 24 in Japan.
The Japanese physical edition will include a copy of the game, reversible cover art, manual, special packaging, and an Ikaruga model ship made by Metal Earth. Western-based publisher Nicalis has also shared new photos of the incoming Switch cartridge and PlayStation 4 Blu-ray disc artwork for the previously announced North America physical run. The North American release is scheduled to release by the end of 2020.
For those who aren’t familiar with the game, Ikaruga is a classic shoot ‘em up which was first release for arcades in 2001. It soon received releases for numerous other platforms such as the Dreamcast, GameCube, and Xbox 360, with its most recent release being for the PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch in 2018. The game follows the typical formula of vertical shoot ‘em ups from its era. What made it different from its genre colleagues is that instead of the bullet hell that requires fast reflexes to dodge projectiles from enemies, Ikaruga introduced a “polarity” mechanic that allows players dodge and absorb bullets from enemies. Once a meter is filled, the bullets stored can be used to launch a special attack. However, not all bullets can be absorbed, as indicated by the color-coded ships that fire them.
Ikaruga's modern day releases saw the addition of new and improved features such as its 3D graphics and the option to flip the game sideways to play it like a sidescroller. As for its game modes, Ikaruga allows for local co-op of up to two players and includes an Arcade and Prototype mode. The game has five levels with unique bosses and three difficulty modes to choose from for the purists who want a mind-numbingly challenging experience.
Ikaruga is currently available for the Nintendo Switch and the PlayStation 4. It is also available through PC via Steam for $9.99.
