Developer: Zenovia Interactive
Platforms: PC (Reviewed), PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
Genre: Action
Publisher: Retroware
Neon Inferno is a retro-inspired 2D run-and-gun shooter. It’s reminiscent of ’90s beat ’em ups in terms of style and pixel art, but draws heavily from the shooters of that era too. Add a dystopian future and a mix of cyberpunk visuals, and the game is truly impressive in how it integrates all of this into one cohesive experience.
The setting is a dystopian New York. You command one of two characters (Angelo or Mariana), and before you know it, you’re thrust into this grimy world of sleaze, corruption, and a hellish New York where everyone seems to be at war—and you’re navigating it as best you can.
The tutorial explains the straightforward controls: shoot, dodge, deflect, avoid, and navigate between the background and foreground. While this may not seem revolutionary, and it isn’t, each element of the game is well thought out and emphasises the simple but addictive gameplay. Between the non-stop action levels, you’ll see the story of the world unfold as you talk to other characters in the game. These interactions, while not lengthy, help give some context and colour to this dark world. The soundtrack complements the game brilliantly and helps drive the cyberpunk and dystopian themes.
The presentation, visuals, music, sound effects, and gameplay are all superb. It’s a super easy game to pick up and play, with a number of difficulty modes and, in particular, an arcade mode where you have one credit to clear the entire game. The game also supports 2-player local co-op!
Overall, while it seems like just a run-and-gun shooter, the developers have created an action-packed and immersive experience that uses the cyberpunk aesthetic and dystopian New York setting to great effect. This game is a fantastic modernisation of a classic retro run-and-gun that melds elements of cyberpunk and a dystopian future. The story elements are surprising and bring the typical run-and-gun into a more heavyweight and fantastic game.
This game is more than the sum of its parts. Amazing action, fantastic visuals, really great use of cyberpunk elements, and a cracking story too. Controls are slick and responsive, and most importantly, the game is super fun and action-packed.
Overall: 8.5/10
Enjoys more than the odd game, long time gamer, somewhat a technologist and everything else in between.
Also enjoys a good solid game of FIFA online. Currently PS4, XBOX 360 and STEAM.
