In an exciting move that harkens back to the glory days of retro gaming, Spanish developer Retro Sumus is making waves with their latest project, *Sovietborgs*. This action-packed shooter is set to launch on classic platforms like the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, bringing fresh gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals reminiscent of retro hits. The development team, already recognized for their work on the ambitious 3D shooter *Xenocider*, is utilizing crowdfunding through Indiegogo to bring this innovative title to life.
About the Game: Concept and Gameplay
*Sovietborgs* transports players into an alternate history where the Soviet Union emerged as the dominant global power following the Cold War, setting the stage for a thrilling action shooter. Players will control three mercenaries known as “Sovietborgs,” each equipped with unique abilities. The gameplay blends traditional top-down shooting mechanics with segments that resemble horizontal scrolling shoot ’em ups, offering varied experiences across levels that keep the action fresh and engaging.
The game employs pre-rendered 3D graphics, a style also seen in classics like *Vectorman* and *Sonic 3D Blast*, which gives it a distinct visual flair. Inspired by the iconic soundscapes of the *Strike* trilogy and *Command & Conquer: Red Alert*, the music is composed by Juanjo Martin, who also created the score for *Xenocider*. This combination of dynamic gameplay and atmospheric music is poised to attract both nostalgic gamers and new players alike.
Funding and Rewards on Indiegogo
To finance the ambitious scope of *Sovietborgs*, Retro Sumus has turned to the crowdfunding platform Indiegogo, where they aim to raise €48,000 by July 24th. As of now, they are approximately 20% of the way to their goal, indicating a strong start. The crowdfunding campaign offers a variety of rewards based on pledge amounts, making it appealing for fans of retro gaming.
The available rewards include copies of *Sovietborgs* across multiple platforms. For example, the Dreamcast version is priced at €45, while the Genesis cartridge is set at €60. The MS-DOS version, unique in its offering with classic packaging, costs between €80 for a CD-ROM version and €100 for five floppy disks. Furthermore, the Neo-Geo version comes with a hefty price tag of €350 for the MVS arcade cartridge or €400 for the AES home console version, encompassing the nostalgia for collectors.
- Dreamcast standard copy: €45
- Genesis cartridge: €60
- MS-DOS CD-ROM: €80 / Floppy disk version: €100
- Neo-Geo MVS cartridge: €350 / AES cartridge: €400
Additionally, special editions with custom packaging and extras are available, catering to avid collectors and fans willing to invest more in the project.
Game Development and Risks of Crowdfunding
While crowdfunding presents an exciting opportunity for developers and players alike, it comes with inherent risks. It is essential to understand that pledging money on platforms like Indiegogo is not a traditional purchase; rather, it’s an investment in a project that is still in development. Many factors can influence the timeline of game releases, and as seen with previous projects like *Xenocider*, it may take years for backers to receive their copies once funding is secured. The development process can be complex, with unexpected challenges arising along the way.
Fortunately for potential backers, Retro Sumus has already demonstrated their capability with *Xenocider*, giving some reassurance about their ability to deliver on their promises. Transparency in communication from the developers can help maintain backer confidence as the project progresses. Interested supporters can follow the campaign’s updates and even download a demo for immediate playability, allowing them to experience *Sovietborgs* firsthand before committing financially.
Community Engagement and Expectations
The response from the gaming community has been largely positive, with many expressing excitement over the retro aesthetic and innovative gameplay mechanics. As crowdfunding campaigns often thrive on community engagement, Retro Sumus has encouraged feedback from potential players through forums and social media. Their proactive approach can help build a loyal fanbase even before the game launches.
Moreover, they have laid out ambitious stretch goals that, if achieved, could introduce additional content and features to *Sovietborgs*. This includes expanded levels, additional characters, and new gameplay mechanics, all contributing to an enriched gaming experience. Players can look forward to more information as the campaign unfolds, especially if they successfully meet their initial funding goal.
Are you eager to support the development of *Sovietborgs*? If you’re drawn to retro gaming or enjoyed *Xenocider*, consider checking out the campaign on Indiegogo and downloading the demo to experience the action firsthand. Your feedback could play an essential role in shaping this new addition to the world of indie games.
For more details, visit the Indiegogo page and join the conversation about this promising title.