Earthion Reviews
Earthion is an absolute masterpiece, both as a shmup and a modern game in general. It's beautiful, engaging, has a heart-pumping soundtrack, and is the type of game that keeps you coming back again and again. This is a special gift for fans of the genre and will go down as one of the best shmups of all time.
Earthion is a perfect encapsulation of the timelessness of the SEGA Genesis. Ancient and Yuzo Koshiro have set the gold standard on how to breathe life into a shoot-em-up while innovating its reach to be fun for all players. Despite it being a Genesis title emulated on PC, it's a must-have for anyone who loves retro games with just the right amount of challenge.
Earthion is a love letter to shmup fans and SEGA enthusiasts, blending Gradius-inspired mechanics with Thunder Force-style flair, stunning 16-bit visuals, and a nostalgic Yuzo Koshiro soundtrack. While some visual clutter hampers precision play, its clever boss battles, relentless level design, and authentic retro feel make it a standout in modern and vintage shooter circles.
Earthion is one of the most impressive retro-style shooters in recent memory. While Ancient’s latest offering doesn’t reinvent the genre, it delivers on all fronts with tight controls, satisfying combat, and a few smart updates to the classic formula. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned shmup veteran, there’s plenty here to enjoy, from the clever upgrade system to the solid weapon variety and striking stage designs. The fact that it was built for the Genesis makes it all the more impressive, but even judged by modern standards, it more than holds its own. If you have any love for the genre or retro games in general, Earthion deserves a spot in your Steam library.
With a timeless look, a memorable soundtrack, and gameplay that encourages repeated attempts, Earthion stands out as one of the best ’90s-style shoot ’em ups, as well as a curious contemporary highlight created for a console nearly 40 years old.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
In an era where the industry is trying to change the generation of consoles faster and faster, seeing a new title of such high quality being developed on hardware that is almost 40 years old makes us think about our relationship with video games and their predetermined obsolescence.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
Earthion is one of the most enjoyable and accessible shoot ‘em ups I've ever played, with tons of variety and nostalgic gameplay.
Earthion is a pretty good horizontal shooter.. but that’s basically it. You’ve played dozens, maybe hundreds of similar games released since the early 90s. What might make it stand out a bit is the fact it’s got a TRULY FANTASTIC score by Yuzo Koshiro, and was developed by his own studio, but this is just another shooter in a genre where there’s little room for innovation or improvements, especially when you consider the fact it was developed with the limitations of the Mega Drive in mind.
Earthion delivers everything that nostalgic fans of a quality shoot 'em up needed: a solid, concise game, with graphics that hark back to the golden age of video games, but with a beautiful touch of modernity.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
Simple things done well will always be enjoyable; it's not always necessary to rethink how video game concepts are presented to players to ensure a pleasant experience. Earthion is proof that starting a game that engages the player right away can be an experience every now and then.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
Earthion is an excellent game for the Genesis. Even with the issues I had with it, I’m still going to keep playing it. I also will be picking up the cartridge release next year — it’s just that good of a game. If you like shooters, give Earthion a go on your favorite modern platform. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Earthion has an enviable pedigree and sports tight, varied, and entertaining gameplay that make it an instant classic. And of course, its soundtrack rocks HARD.