Neon Inferno, developed by Zenovia Interactive, the New York-based studio behind the acclaimed retro platformer Steel Assault, and published by Retroware, draws clear inspiration from arcade classics like Contra and Wild Guns. It reimagines their high-energy shooting action in a cyberpunk dystopia set in New York City, 2055, where players step into the role of assassins Angelo Morano or Mariana Vitti. Working for a rising crime syndicate known as the Family, they carve through corrupt police forces and rival gangs amid flames, neon lights, and urban decay, aiming to seize control of the shattered metropolis.
The Gameplay ...
The game offers solo play or local two-player co-op, with multiple difficulty tiers including a brutal one-credit-clear Arcade Mode for purists and more forgiving options for casual runs. Key features include customizable character upgrades unlocked between missions, such as enhanced weapons or abilities, and vehicle sections like high-speed motorcycle chases that ramp up the chaos. Core mechanics blend precise run-and-gun platforming with gallery-shooter elements, where enemies assault from foreground and background planes simultaneously. Players unleash rapid gunfire, deliver close-quarters sword slashes for melee kills, and execute a satisfying "return to sender" parry on specific projectiles, deflecting them back for devastating counters. Bullet-hell patterns demand constant dodging, while smart enemy prioritization across layers adds tactical depth without overwhelming the fluid controls.
Gameplay unfolds across linear stages traversing iconic NYC locales, from the fire-ravaged slums of the Bronx to opulent, fortified districts in inner Manhattan. Each level builds to epic boss encounters against massive mechanical monstrosities and syndicate enforcers, emphasizing pattern recognition, parry timing, and resource management. Objectives stay straightforward. Blast through waves of foes, survive hazards, and reach the end intact, with scoring incentives like earning five stars per stage based on clears, kills, and efficiency. Angelo and Mariana offer subtle playstyle differences, in mobility or attack reach, encouraging experimentation and co-op synergy.
The Presentation ...
Presentation shines through glorious 32-bit pixel art that captures cyberpunk grit with vibrant neon glows, dynamic animations, and layered parallax scrolling for immersive depth. Sprites burst with personality, from fluid parry poses to explosive vehicle takedowns, evoking the best of SNES-era shooters while feeling modern and polished on PS5. The soundtrack pulses with evocative synthwave tracks, pulsing basslines and soaring melodies, that perfectly amplify the nocturnal frenzy, paired with punchy sound effects for every deflected bullet and boss roar.
The Verdict ...
Neon Inferno delivers a tight, explosive package with strong content variety across its campaign, upgrades, and modes, boasting excellent replay value through leaderboards, star hunts, and escalating Arcade challenges. It nails the nostalgia factor spectacularly, faithfully channeling Contra's relentless pace and Wild Guns' multi-plane mayhem while innovating with parries and cyberpunk flair that feels fresh yet reverent. A must-play retro revival that honors its roots without pandering.
This is best suited for fans of classic run-and-guns, pixel art enthusiasts, and anyone craving short, skill-honing arcade blasts with a friend.
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