Earthion – A New Arcade Shmup by Yuzo Koshiro Takes Shape

The Sega Genesis (or Mega Drive if you were in Europe) was the “cool” system to own in the early ‘90s. While it has been many years since the console was an active force on the market, it has maintained a following of faithful collectors and “homebrew” content developers.

Now about 30 years after the Genesis was a force to be reckoned with, legenday developer and composer Yuzo Koshiro is breathing new life into it in the form of Earthion, a shoot ‘em up (also called “shmup”) that will remind players of classics like Konami’s Gradius or Taito’s Darius – but bolstered with some new techniques to push the Genesis well beyond what was thought possible during its lifetime.

Even more exciting however is that this game is also headed to arcades! Known as Earthion EXA Label, an enhanced version of this title is in development for the exA-Arcadia coin-op platform. Developed by Koshiro, the sound composer for classics like Streets of Rage, and his team at Ancient, this upcoming arcade shmup shines for its technical brilliance and modern upgrades. This will allow players who may no longer have a Genesis to play the game at the arcade, and with a definitive version to boot.

11月30日 (土)大田区産業プラザPiO大展示ホールで行われるRETRO GAME SUMMIT @rgsummit でメガドラ新作STG「アーシオン」の試遊ができます。年内最後のこの機会にぜひ体験しに来てください。新しいオリジナルグッズも販売します。下の動画はSTAGE 1を通しで収録。絵、音、全てMD実機の出力です。 pic.twitter.com/oPTlAGllOU

— 古代祐三 Yuzo Koshiro (@yuzokoshiro) November 18, 2024

But before we talk about the game, we first need to talk about the name. Yuzo Koshiro is a name that resonates deeply in the gaming world. Known for his iconic work on the Streets of Rage and Maximum Tune series, Koshiro is no stranger to crafting memorable soundtracks and gameplay experiences. With Earthion, he’s taking his love for shmups to a whole new level, creating a game that’s both nostalgic and cutting-edge. While the Genesis version of Earthion set out to push the limits of 16-bit hardware, the EXA Label arcade release takes full advantage of modern technology to deliver an enhanced experience.

However, the arcade version of Earthion isn’t just a port—it’s an upgrade in every sense of the word. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Enhanced Performance: Unlike the Genesis version, which occasionally grapples with the hardware’s limitations, Earthion EXA Label eliminates slowdown entirely. This ensures buttery-smooth gameplay that’s critical for a fast-paced shmup.
• Improved Audio: The arcade version features higher-quality system voices and sound effects. According to early hands-on impressions, these upgrades make the game’s audio design clearer and more impactful.

• Additional Content: While details are still emerging, the EXA Label promises unique elements tailored to arcades. From new endings to gameplay features, players can expect surprises that go beyond the home version.

These upgrades make the arcade release the ultimate way to experience Earthion, whether you’re a hardcore shmup enthusiast or a casual fan of the genre.

A Sneak Peek at the Action

Fans got their first taste of Earthion EXA Label during a location test in Japan earlier this year. According to reports, the game already feels polished, offering intense action and tight controls. While the demo only included two possible endings, it left players eager for more. The arcade format lends itself perfectly to the game’s high-energy gameplay, where precision and quick reflexes are key.

Release Plans and Availability

While the Genesis version of Earthion has been delayed to 2025, the EXA Label arcade release seems to be on a similar timeline. Once available, it will bring a new layer of excitement to arcades worldwide. The exA-Arcadia platform has been gaining traction for delivering modern arcade experiences, and Earthion EXA Label is poised to become one of its standout titles.

But Earthion EXA Label isn’t just another arcade release; it’s a statement. With its mix of classic shmup gameplay and modern enhancements, it serves as a reminder that arcades remain a vibrant space for innovation and creativity. The game’s development showcases the possibilities of blending retro-inspired design with cutting-edge technology, offering a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Yuzo Koshiro and Ancient are crafting something truly special with Earthion EXA Label. From its technical upgrades to its exclusive arcade features, the game is set to deliver a thrilling experience for players and a standout attraction for arcade operators. Whether you’re a long-time shmup fan or new to the genre, this is one game you won’t want to miss. Keep an eye out for Earthion EXA Label as it heads toward its 2025 release—it’s going to be worth the wait.

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