“Earthion”: Masterpiece or Trash?
With visuals that evoke classic hits, FM synthesis, and even support for actual Mega Drive hardware, this is a much-talked-about shooter.
With music by Yuzo Koshiro, is this game actually fun?
A must-read for shooter fans! A thorough look at pre-release buzz, features, appeal, and concerns!
In this article, we’ll review “Earthion” in detail—from basic info like release date, price, and platforms to pros/cons, comparable titles, and FAQs.
We’ll ultimately rate it out of 100 to decide whether it’s a “masterpiece” or “trash.” If you’re on the fence about buying, use this as your guide.
I’m pulling an all-nighter to investigate! …Time to power up with pudding first thing in the morning!
Princess Pixel, rest assured! I, Slash, will conduct a complete investigation into all things Earthion!
- What Is Earthion?
- Release Date, Price, Platforms, Genre, and Publisher
- What Earthion Does Well
- Where Earthion Falls Short
- Earthion FAQ
- Settings, Environment, and Peripherals for Maximum Enjoyment
- If You Like Earthion, Don’t Miss These: Related & Recommended Masterpieces
- Earthion vs. Zero Fire: Which Should You Buy?
- Hype and Concerns from Social Media
- Is Earthion a Masterpiece or Trash? (Conclusion)
What Is Earthion?
“Earthion” is a retro-style side-scrolling shooter that’s making waves thanks to music composed by Yuzo Koshiro.
As the keywords “FM synthesis,” “CRT scanlines,” and “Mega Drive hardware support” suggest, it recreates the gaming experience of the 1980s–90s using modern tech.
It’s not mere nostalgia—it balances design choices that resonate with today’s players with a snappy tempo, standing out even in the indie scene.
Also, “Earthion” is a coined word blending “Earth” and “Ion,” and its super-science war set on Earth is another point of interest.
While the game system is simple, the no-nonsense, rhythmic combat BGM and screen effects enhance immersion, winning over not only longtime fans but Gen Z as well.
What kind of game is Earthion?
Earthion falls into the “side-scrolling shooter” (yoko-shmup) genre. You pilot a fighter clad in energy called a “Photon Barrier” and blast enemies.
Key features are as follows.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Genre | Side-scrolling shooter |
| Presentation | CRT filter, FM synthesis, pixel art |
| System | Multi-lock-on, Photon Barrier deployment, power-up pickups |
| Play Time | 7 stages total / approx. 45 minutes per run |
| Difficulty | Normal / Hard / Arcade Mode |
As you can see, Earthion deftly blends nostalgia with freshness, and is designed for everyone from shooter newcomers to veterans.
Koshiro’s BGM is particularly praised—some even say it’s “worth playing just to listen.”
Release Date, Price, Platforms, Genre, and Publisher
“Earthion” is scheduled to release on Thursday, October 30, 2025, as a new side-scrolling shooter.
What’s striking is that it’s not limited to digital distribution—there’s even a packaged version for actual Mega Drive hardware.
This level of dedication reflects the studio’s aim to “reconstruct it as culture, not just a game.”
Latest Info and Official Release Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Earthion |
| Release Date | Thursday, October 30, 2025 |
| Genre | Side-scrolling shooter |
| Platforms | Nintendo Switch, Steam (PC), Mega Drive hardware |
| Distribution | Digital / Packaged (MD cartridge) |
| Price | Standard: ¥4,980 (tax incl.) DELUXE: ¥8,980 (tax incl.) |
| Publisher | Limited Run Games × Yuzo Koshiro Project |
| Music | Yuzo Koshiro (notable works: Streets of Rage, Ys, ActRaiser) |
Particularly notable is the official production and sale of a cartridge for the retro “Mega Drive” hardware—a rare move.
The DELUXE edition is planned to include an arranged soundtrack, an original poster, and CRT-style stickers.
On Steam, wishlist additions are soaring, and it’s drawing major attention among indie fans and retro gamers even before release.
On Switch, the handheld mode pairs well with the CRT-style filter, so demand is likely to be strong.
What Earthion Does Well
The biggest appeal of “Earthion” is the fusion of retro and modern.
It’s not just nostalgia—the game is highly polished, and the heavy FM-synth BGM and no-nonsense balance are widely praised.
Graphically, its commitment to pixel art shines, with fine-tuned design that recreates “the beauty of the past” even on today’s high-res displays.
The Allure of Yuzo Koshiro’s Music and FM Synthesis
Yuzo Koshiro is the legendary composer behind “Ys,” “ActRaiser,” “Streets of Rage,” and more.
Here he handles the score across the entire game, delighting classic game music fans.
Furthermore, the output is thoroughly FM-synthesis-driven, with tracks optimized to perform on Mega Drive hardware.
In-game, the sound has crisp definition, maximizing your battle-ready adrenaline.
Tracks getting special praise:
- Stage 1 – Photon Sky (propulsive speed with tension)
- Boss Battle – Ion Clash (weighty, bass-driven rhythm)
- Final Zone – Forgotten Earth (lyrical melody)
Commitment to Real Mega Drive Support
This isn’t merely “Mega Drive-style.”
It actually provides ROM data that runs on real Mega Drive hardware, and even ships as a cartridge product.
That alone conveys the team’s passion and deep respect for retro games.
The CRT scanline presentation is also included on Switch and PC, bringing “that old-school screen” to life on modern machines.
Especially in Switch handheld mode, the resolution balance is exquisite—some say it’s like “carrying a tiny CRT around.”
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| FM-Synth BGM | Composed by Yuzo Koshiro; dedicated tracks for all 7 stages |
| CRT-Style Filter | Scanlines, screen curvature, RGB recreation settings |
| Real Mega Drive Support | Playable via official cartridge on genuine hardware |
| Game Tempo | Enemy placement, speed, and BGM merge for deep immersion |
In short, Earthion isn’t just “nostalgic”—it’s packed with elements that make it a highly regarded, modern-ready shooter.
Sound, visuals, feel—everything is “the real deal,” reflecting the creators’ seriousness.
Where Earthion Falls Short
While “Earthion” is a highly polished game, it isn’t perfect for everyone.
Some modern players may find its difficulty high and its structure too simple.
Here are the “惜しい points” to consider before buying, explained objectively.
Difficulty Tuning and Overly Simple Gameplay?
Because it’s arcade-like, each stage is densely packed, and first-time players may struggle to adapt to enemy behavior and patterns.
While no-miss clears and full-score runs are rewarding, casual players may find the bite a bit too strong.
The core loop is also simple—move right and shoot down enemies—so there’s little exploration or freedom of choice.
It lacks modern action-shooter staples like “progression systems,” “branching stories,” or “custom gear,” so replay motivation relies mainly on score chasing and enjoying the BGM.
Gaps vs. Modern Standards
As a retro recreation, Earthion’s graphics and music are top-tier, yet compared with recent HD titles it can look subdued.
Especially among players on next-gen hardware, you’ll hear comments like “the screen feels sparse” or “the effects are restrained.”
Storytelling is also minimal, so it won’t suit those who want a narrative to emotionally invest in.
The world is conveyed briefly via the opening and ending, and players who prioritize dramatic developments or character depth may feel underwhelmed.
| Item | Drawback |
|---|---|
| Difficulty Balance | Even Normal leans intermediate+; some gotcha moments |
| Gameplay Breadth | No branching, growth, or multiple endings |
| Graphics | Retro recreation means less visual flash |
| Story | Limited presentation; little character deep-dive |
As such, Earthion is a great fit for players seeking a “hard-edged side-scrolling shooter,”
but it may not suit those wanting modern RPG-like elements or presentation-heavy experiences.
Earthion FAQ
We’ve compiled likely pre-purchase questions about Earthion in Q&A form.
From specs and platforms to play environments, here are clear answers to common questions.
Quick Q&A
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Q. How hard is it? | A. Three levels: Normal, Hard, and Arcade. Even Normal skews toward intermediate design with some first-time gotchas, so be mindful. |
| Q. How long is one playthrough? | A. About 40–50 minutes. There are 7 stages total; each stage takes roughly 5–8 minutes. |
| Q. Do I need a Mega Drive console to play? | A. No. Download versions are available on Switch and PC (Steam). MD hardware support is optional and caters to collectors. |
| Q. Controller compatibility? | A. Both Switch and PC versions support Pro Controllers and USB pads. Retro-style pads like 8BitDo pair well and feel great. |
| Q. Is the BGM worth it on its own? | A. Yes. Yuzo Koshiro’s full FM-synth score is stunning, recommended not only for gamers but also for music fans. |
| Q. Is there localization? | A. According to the official site, it supports Japanese, English, French, and German. |
As you can see, Earthion targets a wide range of users, and the barrier to “buying and being unable to play” is very low.
Retro enthusiasts and modern gamers alike can pick it up with confidence.
Settings, Environment, and Peripherals for Maximum Enjoyment
To truly savor “Earthion,” graphics options, audio setup, and the right peripherals are key.
Going beyond “just playing” to recreate the feel of arcades and home consoles of the era multiplies the game’s charm.
Scanlines & CRT Effects
Switch and Steam versions include options that reproduce CRT displays.
This prevents overly sharp pixels that can look cheap, recreating a 1990s arcade-cabinet feel.
Main visual settings:
- Scanline Strength: adjustable 0–100%
- Screen Curvature: ON/OFF toggle
- Color Tuning (RGB shadow): reproduces classic CRT color
Used wisely, these faithfully revive retro visuals on modern displays.
In Switch handheld mode, ~50% scanlines tend to offer the best balance.
Great Fit with Retro-Style Controllers
For a side-scrolling STG like “Earthion,” a D-pad with two simple buttons often feels best.
Today there are many USB/Bluetooth controllers with retro designs; consider one to boost control and immersion.
Recommended controllers:
| Maker | Product | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 8BitDo | SN30 Pro | SNES-style, Bluetooth, works with Switch/PC |
| HORI | Fighting Commander | High-precision D-pad; Switch/PC support |
| Retro-Bit | MD6 USB | Mega Drive-style 6-button pad; great on Steam |
Audio Matters, Too!
Earthion’s music shines in the FM-synth mid-to-low range.
Built-in TV or laptop speakers won’t do it justice, so we recommend headphones or speakers that deliver solid bass.
Recommended audio:
- Sennheiser HD 560S: highly accurate with excellent instrument separation
- SONY MDR-7506: pairs exceptionally well with FM synthesis
- YAMAHA HS5 (monitor speakers): ideal at home for weighty BGM playback
With the right setup, simple “gameplay” becomes a “concert.” That’s one of Earthion’s appeals.
If You Like Earthion, Don’t Miss These: Related & Recommended Masterpieces
Here are related titles and recent high-rated shooters you’ll likely enjoy if you fall for “Earthion.”
All of them feature “excellent music,” “beautiful pixel art,” and “satisfying controls.”
Carefully curated must-plays for side-scrolling shooter fans.
Notable & Kindred Titles
| Title | Highlights | Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| Blazing Chrome | A hybrid of Mega Man + Contra-style side-shooting | Switch / PS4 / Xbox / PC |
| Drainus | Absorption shield system + gorgeous pixel effects | Switch / Steam |
| Rolling Gunner | Intuitive aerial combat with dual-stick controls | Switch / PC |
| Steel Empire | Retro side-shooter with steampunk flair; famed for music & presentation | Switch / 3DS / GBA (legacy) |
| Valis Collection | ’80s action series with standout Yuzo Koshiro tracks | Switch / PC |
| Mega Drive Mini 2 (built-in titles) | Includes many great side-shooters like Thunder Force IV | MD Mini 2 console |
These games share Earthion’s appeal in terms of “satisfying control,” “polished music,” and “clever stage design.”
“Drainus,” with its absorption shield, feels especially fresh—perfect to play after Earthion.
If you’re moved by Yuzo Koshiro’s music, be sure to check out the Valis Collection and the early Ys series.
They remain stellar examples of music and gameplay in harmony.
Earthion vs. Zero Fire: Which Should You Buy?
Two popular recent side-scrolling shooters drawing attention are “Earthion” and “ZERO FIRE.”
Both mix retro style with modern elements, so many wonder, “Which one should I get?”
Here we compare the two and highlight recommendations by playstyle and preference.
Earthion vs. ZERO FIRE Comparison
| Item | Earthion | ZERO FIRE |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | Side-scrolling STG (retro-leaning) | Side-scrolling STG (high-power sci-fi) |
| Graphics | 16-bit-style pixels + CRT recreation | HD pixel art + beefed-up effects |
| BGM | FM synthesis (Yuzo Koshiro) | Synth arrangements + boss themes |
| Difficulty | On the tougher, old-school side | Scalable with beginner-friendly options |
| Platforms | Switch / PC / MD hardware | Switch / PC / PS5 / Xbox |
| Staying Power | Classic style; short, focused sessions | Deeper loadout growth and score systems |
Who Should Pick Which?
- Earthion is for:
・Retro gamers who love FM synthesis and pixel culture
・Those seeking dense, short play sessions
・Players who enjoy tackling tougher stages - ZERO FIRE is for:
・Modern gamers who want flashy set pieces and boss spectacles
・Players who love min-maxing gear and score grinding
・Graphics-focused players who want broader options
In short, “Earthion” delivers a “pure shooting experience,” while “ZERO FIRE” offers an “evolved side-shmup experience.”
Buying both to compare is fun, but start with what fits your gaming style.
Hype and Concerns from Social Media
With release planned for October 2025, “Earthion” is already a hot topic on social media.
On X (formerly Twitter) in particular, game music fans and retro gamers are posting their excitement, while also sharing candid “concerns.”
Here we pick up notable “hype” and “worry” points from pre-release posts and trends.
Positive Reactions
- “A new game with music by Yuzo Koshiro… that alone is an instant buy.”
- “They’re serious about the CRT filter. Real Mega Drive support—are you kidding?!”
- “Pixel effects that are irresistible for retro shooter lovers. Biggest surprise of 2025.”
- “CRT scanlines in Switch handheld mode + killer audio. Low-key, this screams masterpiece.”
- “DELUXE edition packaging looks so good I want to display it.”
Negative Reactions
- “If it’s too hard, I might drop it halfway… hope there are good settings to adjust.”
- “I’m worried after hearing the story is minimal. I’m too used to modern games.”
- “Recreating old controls sounds cool, but I’m worried about comfort.”
- “Rumor says the volume is light… is 45 minutes per run too short?”
- “PC optimization concerns. Will FM synth work properly on all setups?”
Thus, “Earthion” has sky-high expectations, but evaluations may split by player generation and habits.
Still, for those who enjoy nostalgia, the concept is undeniably compelling.
Is Earthion a Masterpiece or Trash? (Conclusion)
“Earthion” is a rare side-scrolling shooter where retro love meets modern tech.
Its commitment to FM synthesis, CRT effects, and real Mega Drive support will be embraced passionately by many fans.
However, it’s fair to say the game can be a hurdle for those who prioritize modern comfort and narrative depth.
Below are five evaluation axes with pre-release expectations and polish scores, culminating in an overall verdict.
Five Evaluation Parameters
| Category | Score (out of 20) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics | 17 | Excellent CRT scanline recreation and smooth pixels |
| Sound | 20 | FM-synth score by Yuzo Koshiro at an exceptional level |
| Controls | 18 | Retro-authentic yet comfortable on modern pads |
| Volume | 14 | 7 stages feels a bit short, but has replay depth |
| Innovation/Originality | 16 | Unique fusion of retro hardware support and CRT effects |
| Total | 85 / 100 | → A retro shooter leaning toward “masterpiece” |
In summary, “Earthion” is a “devoutly crafted masterpiece” that will resonate deeply with specific audiences.
It’s not for everyone, but for retro and shooter fans, it’s likely to be “the real thing.”
Charging in with faith it’s a masterpiece—that’s the gamer’s romance!
I secretly preordered two DELUXE editions myself! (One’s for display…)
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