The retro gaming scene is no stranger to titles that wear their influences on their sleeve. Retroware and Zenovia Interactive’s upcoming Neon Inferno is no exception, drawing clear inspiration from genre stalwarts like Contra and Wild Guns. However, the question remains: does it bring enough new to the table to stand out, or is it simply a nostalgic rehash?
Set in a dystopian New York City of 2055, Neon Inferno casts players as either Angelo or Mariana, embroiled in the power struggles of a nascent crime family. The narrative pits them against a corrupt NYPD and rival syndicates, painting a familiar picture of urban decay and gang warfare. While the story setup may not be groundbreaking, the game’s core mechanics offer a more intriguing proposition.
What Sort of Game is Neon Inferno?
Neon Inferno cleverly blends side-scrolling action with gallery shooter elements. Enemies occupy both the foreground and background, demanding players to constantly adapt their tactics and positioning. This dynamic, reminiscent of combining Contra’s run-and-gun with Wild Guns’ precision aiming, could be the game’s strongest asset. The “Bullet Time” mechanic, allowing projectile deflection regardless of enemy placement, adds another layer of strategic depth.
The game’s visual presentation is firmly rooted in the 32-bit era, boasting detailed pixel art and a fitting soundtrack. While “glorious” might be subjective, the aesthetic certainly aligns with the game’s retro inspirations. Two-player co-op is a welcome addition, promising chaotic fun for those willing to brave the dystopian streets together. An Arcade Mode, emphasizing a classic one-credit clear challenge, caters to players seeking a demanding experience.
Key Features
Those features in detail:
- Satisfying Arcade Challenge: Enjoy a playthrough on an easier mode…or put your skills and resilience to the test with 1-credit-clear arcade mode.
- Shoot close, aim far: a dynamic blend of side-scroller and gallery-shooter, where the action takes place in both foreground and background (like playing Contra and Wild Guns at the same time).
- Glorious 32-bit Style: A sci-fi cityscape rendered in beautiful pixel art and backed by an evocative soundtrack
- Two-Player Co-op: With danger lurking around every street corner, wouldn’t you be better off with a friend?
Neon Inferno certainly has the potential to capture the attention of retro gaming enthusiasts. Its blend of familiar mechanics with a unique twist, coupled with its distinct 1990s arcade visual style, could carve out a niche in a crowded market. Whether it truly ignites a “neon inferno” of its own remains to be seen when it launches on all platforms in Q3 2025. We’ll be keeping a close eye on this one, and you can wishlist Neon Inferno now on Steam.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.
We collect the most important retro gaming news and articles and send them to you weekly, absolutely free.