Japan loves its transforming robots, and I’ve been a fan since I saw my first Transformer in 1984. There’s something deeply satisfying about the ability to switch forms on the fly — adapting to the situation, trading brute force for speed, or vice versa — and it’s a design idea that never really gets old.
Which is no doubt why Clear River Games has announced that Jaleco’s classic Japanese shooter FZ: Formation Z will finally arrive in Europe on June 9, 2026, launching on PC (Steam and Epic Games Store), PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and Xbox Series X|S. Originally an arcade title from the 1980s, FZ: Formation Z stood out at the time thanks to its transforming protagonist: the mech Ixpel, capable of switching between robot and jet fighter forms at will.
Modern graphics, classic gameplay
That core idea remains intact in this modern revival. Players once again pilot Ixpel solo, battling through enemy-heavy missions while dynamically transforming between ground-based robot combat and high-speed aerial assault. The balance between the two forms is tied to energy, forcing players to think tactically about when to fight on foot and when to take to the skies.
While the structure stays faithful to the original, this new version brings fully updated visuals and a brand-new soundtrack composed by Daisuke Matsumoto. Clear River Games says the focus has been on preserving the feel and immediacy of the arcade classic while layering in modern presentation, additional weaponry, and flashier effects.
Beyond the core campaign, the new release leans into customisation. Completing missions earns FZ Points, which can be spent in The Factory to unlock new Ixpel units and cosmetic items. Players can equip modules across four slots, shaping their mech into either a balanced all-rounder or a highly specialised build that pushes a single trait to its limits. Colour choices, stickers, and part swaps add another layer of personalisation, letting players stamp their own identity onto the metal chassis.
There’s also a Score Attack mode for those who like to chase perfection. Unlockable after completing a mission, it allows players to replay individual stages using their fully customised Ixpel, with high scores tracked per area. Alongside that sits an extensive archive system, including enemy data, war records tracking overall progress, and a gallery that unlocks artwork as challenges are completed.
When can you get FZ: Formation Z?
If all this sounds familiar, that’s because FZ: Formation Z sits within a long tradition of arcade shooters that weren’t afraid to experiment with form-switching mechanics. It’s the same lineage that makes oddities like Tatakae! Big Fighter so memorable — a game that was very much not a Transformers licence, despite how much it looked the part. (If you missed that one, it’s well worth revisiting on the Arcade Archives.)
Physically, FZ: Formation Z will release on June 9, 2026 on PlayStation 5 for $39.99 / €34.99, and on Nintendo Switch 2 for $49.99 / €44.99. Digitally, it will be available the same day across PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, and PC for $29.99 / €24.99. Keep an eye on the Clear River Games socials for updates.
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Christian Cawley is the founder and editor of GamingRetro.co.uk, a website dedicated to classic and retro gaming. With over 20 years of experience writing for technology and gaming publications, he brings considerable expertise and a lifelong passion for interactive entertainment, particularly games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
Christian has written for leading outlets including TechRadar, Computer Weekly, Linux Format, and MakeUseOf, where he also served as Deputy Editor.
When he’s not exploring vintage consoles or retro PCs, Christian enjoys building with LEGO, playing cigar box guitar, and experimenting in the kitchen.
