After 40 Years in the Industry, Veteran Developer Tony Barnes Releases His First Solo Indie Game on Steam
VectaGuard launches July 27th, 2026, marking the debut of RetroNinja Games and a return to the arcade roots that inspired a four-decade career.
LOS ANGELES, Calif. – July 27, 2026, Veteran game developer Tony Barnes announces the release of VectaGuard, his first independently developed in more than three decades and debut title from RetroNinja Games.
Available now on Steam for Windows PC and SteamDeck, VectaGuard is a fast-paced arcade shooter inspired by classics like Gravitar, Caverns of Mars and Defender. Solo developed by Barnes, it combines classic score-chasing gameplay with striking 2.5D vector visuals, explosive effects and modern gameplay systems.
Over a career spanning more than 40 years and 100 shipped games, Barnes has contributed to titles for major publishers including Electronic Arts, Crystal Dynamics, Rockstar Games, The Collective and others. VectaGuard marks the beginning of a new chapter focused on independent hand-crafted arcade experiences.
“The games that inspired me as a kid were simple pure gameplay; easy to learn, hard to master, impossible to put down,” said Tony Barnes, Founder of RetroNinja Games. “After decades of working with incredible teams, creating solo again has been incredibly rewarding and VectaGuard is the product of that. It’s my tribute to the games that made me want to become a developer to begin with.”
Featuring stackable weapon upgrades, global cross-platform leaderboards, responsive controls and an original dynamic soundtrack, VectaGuard is designed for players who love gameplay-focused games, chasing high scores, and “just one more run.”
Key Features
- Fast-paced arcade action focused on replayability and score-chasing
- Vibrant 2.5D vector graphics with modern lighting, physics and particle effects
- Stackable weapon upgrades reward experimentation and mastery
- Global cross-platform leaderboard
- Dynamic electronic soundtrack
- Full controller support (recommended)
The launch of VectaGuard also introduces RetroNinja Games, Barnes’ independent studio dedicated to creating modern games with the soul and DNA of the golden age of gaming.
Availability
VectaGuard is available now for Windows PC and Steam Deck via Steam.
Steam:Â VectaGuard on Steam
Press Assets & Additional Information
Website:Â RetroNinja Games
YouTube: RetroNinja YouTube Channel
About RetroNinja Games
RetroNinja Games is an independent game development studio founded by industry veteran Tony Barnes. The studio creates modern arcade experiences that blend timeless gameplay with modern technology and presentation. VectaGuard is its debut release.
