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.