Side-scrolling shooter Final Formation will launch for Switch on October 30, followed by PC via Steam in 2026, publisher City Connection and developer Happymeal announced.
Here is an overview of the game, via its Steam page:
About
A new evolution of transformable science-fiction action shooting.
Unified Calendar year 3005, the gene-mutated beasts from space—known as “Gene Beasts”—have evolved through a prolonged battle with humanity into highly advanced mechanical lifeforms called “Termination Bots.”
To face this new threat, the Earth Allied Forces deploy the transformable and combinable combat mecha EX-PELL to the frontlines.
Join forces with the autonomous battle unit PELL, equipped with SUPER AI, and engage in fierce battles against the Termination Bots!
“Free Map” for Strategic Exploration Across Vast Battlefields
Each stage is a freely explorable horizontal map, allowing players to choose their route and tactics.
Encounter enemy ambushes, resupply and defend scattered bases, and take on a variety of missions.
Dash through diverse terrain—land, air, and sea—and complete your objectives with precision.
Adapt to the Battlefield with the “PELL Chain System”
- EX Fighter Mode – The player’s base form: a high-speed fighter aircraft. In addition to rapid-fire shots, it can unleash a powerful charged attack called “Big Bang.”
- Armed Unit “PELL” – Autonomous combat units stationed at various bases. Equipped with SUPER AI, they operate independently and can merge with the EX Fighter when approached
- Fusion Form with PELL – Merging EX Fighter with a PELL unit transforms it into a humanoid robot. The form and performance vary depending on the PELL unit used. This form supports multi-directional shooting, angled Big Bang shots, and powerful “PELL Shots” unique to each unit (limited use per mission).
- Tactical Flexibility via Separation and Recombination – Except in certain scenarios, you can freely separate from the fusion form and return to EX Fighter mode. Withstand enemy barrages in fusion mode, and utilize high mobility in fighter mode. Master the art of combining and separating on demand to dominate with hit-and-run tactics.
Feature-Rich Options to Enhance Gameplay
- Language Support – Supports both Japanese and English. Switching to English also changes in-game comic demos to English text.
- Volume Controls – Individually adjust the volume of BGM, sound effects, and overall master volume.
What Is Formation Z?
Originally released in arcades by Jaleco in 1984, Formation Z is a classic shooting game featuring a transformable mecha.
Advance across the ground in humanoid robot form and transform mid-jump into a fighter jet, delivering fast-paced, exhilarating action. The game became a hit and was ported to numerous home consoles, becoming one of Jaleco’s most iconic titles.
This new title carries on the spirit of Formation Z as the second entry in the “Final” series, reimagined with a fresh interpretation and worldview.
Co-developed by City Connection and Happy Meal, and featuring an intense comic story by manga artist U-Watari, the thrill is reborn—now with evolved gameplay and visuals!
Watch a new trailer below.