Weve said it from the start, and were thrilled to say it againSnow Bros. Wonderland is an absolutely excellent co-op game! Partly because it strikes the perfect balance between serious gameplay and lighthearted fun. Partly because its so easy and accessible to jump in and out of whenever you like. And also because its so fitting for the season. After all, who wouldnt want to spend time with loved ones during these magical holiday times? Now, it seems the wonderful folks at Video Chums agree with us. In their Indie Game of the Year Awards 2024, theyve named Snow Bros. Wonderland the Co-op Game of the Year! Were honored! https://videochums.com/article/indie-game-of-the-year-awards-2024#snow-bros-wonderland So, are you looking for a snowy arcade adventure to share with up to three friends? Give Snow Bros. Wonderland a chanceits sure to brighten up the winter darkness! https://store.steampowered.com/app/3214870/Snow_Bros_Wonderland/

[ 2024-12-13 13:24:18 CET ] [ Original post ]

Omega 6 is the latest game from the legendary Takaya Imamura. Imamura, who previously designed characters for F-Zero and Star Fox among many other projects, now invites us into a brand-new universe where humanity is searching for a new planet. Joining you on this journey are two androids, Thunder and Kyra, along with over 100 other colorful characters. It promises to be a 16-bit-style adventure unlike anything you've seen before! The Steam version of Omega 6 is set for release in 2025, and the game will also be coming to the Switchboth digitally and physically. While the extra content hasnt been fully decided, something special is definitely being prepared. By the way, did you know Omega 6 actually began as one, before the game was created? That's rightthis new universe was first crafted by Imamura-san in manga form. And now the story has come full circle, as a series from Dark Horse is in the works (its already out in France). Welcome aboard the Omega 6 spaceship, friends. Are you ready for an epic adventure among the stars? Wishlist Omega 6 The Triangle Stars today https://store.steampowered.com/app/3128580/OMEGA_6_The_Triangle_Stars/

[ 2024-11-11 07:27:30 CET ] [ Original post ]

Introducing the Toaplan & Psikyo Classic Arcade Shoot em up Collection The Japanese studios Toaplan and Psikyo created some of the most groundbreaking and greatest shoot em up games from the early 80s and up until the start of the 2000s including beloved series such as Truxton and Strikers 1945. Were now teaming up with City Connection to bring you the Toaplan & Psikyo Classic Arcade Shoot em up Collection! This bundle includes 16 games from Toaplan and 9 games from Psikyo filled with fast-flying bullets and bombastic bombing action. If you already own some of these games, then you will just pay and receive the games in the bundle that you dont already have in your Steam library. Take the chance to enjoy some of the finest arcade experiences from the golden era updated with modern features. Toaplan & Psikyo Classic Arcade Shoot 'em up Collection GAMES INCLUDED Toaplan games:

• Batsugun
• Truxton
• Truxton II
• Zero Wing
• Out Zone
• FixEight
• Dogyuun
• Grind Stormer
• Vimana
• Slap Fight
• Tiger Heli
• Twin Cobra
• Flying Shark
• Fire Shark
• Hellfire
• Twin Hawk

Psikyo games:

• Strikers 1945
• Strikers 1945 II
• Strikers 1945 III
• Gunbird
• Gunbird 2
• Gunbarich
• Samurai Aces
• Tengai
• Samurai Aces III: Sengoku Cannon

Psikyo was a Japanese developer and publisher founded in 1992. Specializing in vertically scrolling shoot em up that are known for fast-flying enemy bullets, challenging second loops, and enigmatic characters. Development studio Zerodiv, part of City Connection, have carefully ported Psikyos classic arcade games to PC.
Toaplan was a Japanese developer that operated between 1984 and 1994. Famous for popularizing the bomb-based gameplay system that became a staple in shoot em ups, and perfectly balanced enemy placement and attack patterns that required a strategic approach. Today Toaplan is curated by Tatsujin with many of the former key Toaplan staff employed at Tatsujin. Bitwave have ported Toaplans slate of immortal shoot em ups to PC.

[ 2024-09-16 07:42:21 CET ] [ Original post ]

• Practice Mode: after hit return direct to Practice Menu
• Don't show double menu after saving a game in Practice Mode and getting hit
• Mac Steam Input: Fixed the input mapping files

[ 2024-04-17 12:28:20 CET ] [ Original post ]

They're here and we couldn't be more delighted! Toaplan Arcade Shoot 'Em Up Collection Vol.4 has landed on Steam and GOG, featuring heavy hitters such as Truxton II, Grind Stormer, Dogyuun, and Twin Hawk. Were also launching an Ultimate Collection with all 16 games for the unrivaled Toaplan experience. The Toaplan PC project was announced back in August 2022, and the circle is now complete. At Bitwave, we take great pride in our collaboration with Tatsujin, aiding them in continuing the Toaplan legacy making games like Dogyuun available in home versions for the first time.

SHMUPS INCLUDED IN VOL.4

Truxton II: Enjoy the visually stunning pixel graphics in one of the hardest and most unforgiving Toaplan games! Grind Stormer: Experience a vertically scrolling manic shooter featuring impressive pixel art graphics and an upbeat FM soundtrack! Dogyuun: Known for its detailed pixel art, colossal bosses, and menacing difficulty. Take on the challenge with a friend and combine your ships into a space-wrecking vehicle! Twin Hawk: Call in a formation of six friendly fighter planes and take down powerful enemies in this classic military-themed shoot 'em up!

COMPLETE YOUR COLLECTION

You can purchase all four games together for 19.99$/ or separately for 7.79$/. Complete your collection by diving into our Ultimate Collection or buy them all for 69.99$/.

LIST OF UPDATES:

• Minimal Input Lag: Emulation, input processing, and rendering all complete on the same frame.
• Quick Save using F1-F10, Reload with Shift+ F1-F10.
• Online leaderboards for Single Credit, No Assist, and Assisted plays.
• Rewind the game between 10-18 minutes, depending on the action.
• Capture sharable replays to immortalize your interstellar victories (or funny moments).
• Assist Features such as auto-fire at multiple rates.
• Very Easy Mode: Lower the difficulty to breeze through the adventure.
• Pixel perfect or full-screen scaling in windowed or full-screen mode.
• Rotate the gameplay in 90-degree increments.
• Steam Achievements.
• Choose between Raw Input on Windows or Steam Input.
• Hone your skills in the ultra customizable practice mode!

Follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter) (@bitwavegames) to stay updated on future projects!

[ 2024-04-08 11:30:17 CET ] [ Original post ]

• Fixes and Memory Optimizations coinciding with the release of Volume 4

[ 2024-04-08 08:59:15 CET ] [ Original post ]

Happy Friday, shmupers! Were glad to tell you that Toaplan Arcade Shoot Em Up Collection Vol.4 is coming soon! Vol.4 includes Truxton II, Grind Stormer, Dogyuun, and Twin Hawk, and you can wishlist them all today: Truxton II: Enjoy the visually stunning pixel graphics in one of the hardest and most unforgiving Toaplan games! Grind Stormer: Experience a vertically scrolling manic shooter featuring impressive pixel art graphics and an upbeat FM soundtrack! Dogyuun: Known for its detailed pixel art, colossal bosses, and menacing difficulty. Take on the challenge with a friend and combine your ships into a space-wrecking vehicle! Twin Hawk: Call in a formation of six friendly fighter planes and take down powerful enemies in this classic military-themed shoot 'em up! Weve got more news to share shortly. Please tune in ShooterFes on April 6th, 8am ET / 2pm CEST / 9pm JST, to learn more. See you there!

[ 2024-03-22 12:46:58 CET ] [ Original post ]

Today marks an exciting milestone! The Toaplan Arcade Shoot Em Up Collection Vol. 4 is officially released on both Steam and GOG. This volume holds special significance as it includes two games that have never seen an official release outside the arcade until now: Vimana and FixEight. Additionally, experience the classic chopper shooter Tiger-Heli and the fan-favorite Batsugun. The Games In Detail Tiger-Heli: This is where it all started. Tiger-Heli, Toaplan's pioneering bomb-based vertical shooter set the stage for an entire genre back in 1985! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SG9XHhx19-k Vimana: Uncover the magic of Indian mythology, unique power-ups, and an enchanting soundtrack in this electrifying space showdown! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXcYaaL2oFI FixEight: Toaplan's thrilling vertical run-and-gun game features eight peerless warriors with cutting-edge weapons! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcSceYUoEJM Batsugun: The epic conclusion of Toaplan's legendary shooter series. Play the original or Batsugun Special. Choose your favorite character and spaceship in this thrilling sci-fi adventure! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjVc76ROHxI You can purchase all four games together for 19.99$/ or separately for 7.79$/! Each game features quick save/resume, online leaderboards for single credit players, no assist and assisted modes, and Achievements (for bragging rights)! You can also showcase your skills online using the built-in video capture! List of updates:

• Minimal Input Lag: Emulation, input processing, and rendering all complete on the same frame.
• Quick Save using F1-F10, Reload with Shift+ F1-F10
• Online leaderboards for Single Credit, No Assist, and Assisted plays.
• Instrument panels with extra gameplay information and artwork.
• Rewind the game between 10-18 minutes, depending on the action.
• Capture sharable replays to immortalize your interstellar victories (or funny moments).
• Assist Features such as auto-fire at multiple rates.
• Very Easy Mode: Lower the difficulty to breeze through the adventure.
• Pixel perfect or full-screen scaling in windowed or full-screen mode.
• Rotate the gameplay in 90-degree increments.
• Steam Achievements
• Choose between Raw Input on Windows or Steam Input.
• Hone your skills in the ultra-customizable practice mode!

With Vol.3 out, theres just one more to go! Look forward to Truxton II, Dogyuun, Grind Stormer, and Twin Hawk. But more on that later. Follow us on X (formerly known as Twitter) to stay updated!

[ 2024-02-01 12:31:00 CET ] [ Original post ]

BATSUGUN COMPETITION Were teaming up with Japanese clothing company KumaGumi to celebrate the upcoming release of Batsugun on PC! The aim of KumaGumi is to do quality retro gaming apparel. Kuma( / Bear) Gumi( Group) reflects the days, evenings, years (oh wtf?!) spent hibernating and playing videogames with friends. A time of innocence, simplicity with no Internet. One of the many amazing collections from KumaGumiis a line of Batsugun clothes and now you have the chance to win a Skull Hornet coach jacket, Warning Kuma hoodie, or a Skull Hornets t-shirt from that very collection! Participate in the competition on X/Twitter. Enter before 23:59 CET on January 31st 2023. Three winners will be selected and announced on February 1st.

[ 2024-01-25 13:52:30 CET ] [ Original post ]

Greetings shmupers! Today were bursting with excitement to reveal the next installment of our Toaplan releases on PC, Toaplan Arcade Shoot Em Up Collection Vol.3! Vol. 3 is a mix of firsts and lasts and good ol' classics in between. Were also bringing the enhancements from our two first volumes to Vol.3 for both veterans and newcomers alike to enjoy. You can purchase all four games together for 19.99$/ or separately for 7.79$/. Be sure to wishlist all four titles to prepare for launch day! SHMUPS INCLUDED IN VOL.3 Tiger-Heli: This is where it all started. Tiger-Heli, Toaplan's pioneering bomb-based vertical shooter set the stage for an entire genre back in 1985! Vimana: Uncover the magic of Indian mythology, unique power-ups, and an enchanting soundtrack in this electrifying space showdown! FixEight: Toaplan's thrilling vertical run-and-gun game features eight peerless warriors with cutting-edge weapons! Batsugun: The epic conclusion of Toaplan's legendary shooter series. Play the original or Batsugun Special. Choose your favorite character and spaceship in this thrilling sci-fi adventure! LIST OF UPDATES: Minimal Input Lag: Emulation, input processing, and rendering all complete on the same frame. Quick Save using F1-F10, Reload with Shift+ F1-F10 Online leaderboards for Single Credit, No Assist, and Assisted plays. Instrument panels with extra gameplay information and artwork. Rewind the game between 10-18 minutes, depending on the action. Capture sharable replays to immortalize your interstellar victories (or funny moments). Assist Features such as auto-fire at multiple rates. Very Easy Mode: Lower the difficulty to breeze through the adventure. Pixel perfect or full-screen scaling in windowed or full-screen mode. Rotate the gameplay in 90-degree increments. Steam Achievements Choose between Raw Input on Windows or Steam Input. Hone your skills in the ultra customizable practice mode! We had a blast putting together this collection of classic shooters, and we hope you enjoy it. The team is now focusing on Vol.4 which will be the final collection, and we'll let you know when it's ready for launch. February 1, 2024 is just around the corner. Get ready by adding all four games to your Wishlist and follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, to stay updated!

[ 2024-01-10 14:02:23 CET ] [ Original post ]

The Toaplan games are known for their thrilling music that matches the intense shoot em up gameplay. Taking off in Truxton and you immediately feel a level excitement as the music starts to play, its the start of an action-packed journey to furthest reaches of space. Or the dramatic straight into action upbeat tune of Hellfire. Add the sound effects of blazing shots and exploding bombs. Its a soundscape that represents the best of the golden arcade era of pixelated shoot em up games. At Bitwave we have worked to constantly improving the audio representation. Coder Carl Henrik Skrstedt has listened (no pun intended) to feedback and received input from Tatsujin, the owner of the Toaplan games and run by original Toaplan staff including Masahiro Yuge and Tatsuya Uemura that composed several of the songs in the game. To ensure proper emulation we listened to recorded arcade music and sound effects. Its a challenge as the audio experience with an arcade cabinet can vary between cabinets with different speakers and resonance. The sound from earlier sound chips such as the PSG depends on the circuitry connecting it to the sound output signal making each game a little bit more unique and more challenging to get just right. Throughout several different patches we have worked on the audio: - Improved the sound to play at a consistent tempo. - Included support for a wider range of audio drivers. - Added audio filter: optional echo, reverb, low-pass and high-pass filters to allow players to customize to their best experience in emulating an arcade like sound. - Fixed technical bugs that meant minor improvements in the generated audio. In the latest update weve further adjusted the frequency based on feedback of the sound effects and the high pitch in games such as Slap Fight based on feedback. This is something thatll also benefit future releases such as Tiger Heli, the first game created by Toaplan. We hope that this is satisfaction to your ears in the goal to deliver the arcade feeling home on your PC. Were humble as its not an easy task to emulate and faithfully recreate the amazing Toaplan audio with the weight of heritage it carries. We appreciate specific feedback on how and where we can improve. Our goal remains to deliver an arcade experience with minimal input lag for the controller to get that split-second action decisions as you dodge bullets, while you enjoy the beautiful pixel art with or without a CRT filter and feel the beat of the stunning digitized music. We want to finish off by letting you know that the latest update also includes a fix for the capture video function. Previously we fixed the desync and in the new version we have turned off rewind when recording and replaying. At first the fix will be applied to Twin Cobra, Flying Shark, and Slap Fight. The fix will be rolled out to the other games in the future. Other fixes in addition to the already mentioned: Music tempo correction (Twin Cobra, and Flying Shark) Wide screen mode: Pick-ups centered instead of to the left side (Twin Cobra) Centered the cursor in the high score entry (Slap Fight)

[ 2023-12-13 12:21:34 CET ] [ Original post ]

Hey shmupers! We've just released a new patch for Twin Cobra. Details below:

• Keyboard layout saves and loads properly again
• Keyboard icons displayed when using keyboard and in keyboard setup
• Record and replay reworked, replays from previous versions still works and should be better
• Stairstep screen mode bleeding in from right edge fixed

[ 2023-09-15 13:00:00 CET ] [ Original post ]

Theyre here! Toaplan Arcade Shoot 'Em Up Collection Vol.2 is out now on Steam! We at Bitwave are proud to have worked on this project with our Japanese friends at Tatsujin, and the second volume includes four Toaplan classics with high-quality emulation and tons of quality-of-life extras! Games included in Vol. 2:

• Hellfire: Toaplan's first side-scrolling shooter, known for its blazing graphics and strategic gameplay. Save the galaxy by burning aliens to ashes with the ultimate firepower!
• Slap Fight (AKA Alcon): A brain-melting vertical shooter with gauge-based power-ups that'll get your blood pumping!
• Fire Shark: Set the skies ablaze and endure white-knuckle shmup action in this no-nonsense aerial trial! Fly solo or play in co-op.
• Flying Shark (AKA Sky Shark): A military shmup adventure with destructive power-ups, stunning graphics, and evil enemy forces to destroy!

You can purchase all four games together for 19.99$/ or separately for 7.79$/! Each game features quick save/resume, online leaderboards for single credit players, no assist and assisted modes, and Achievements (for bragging rights)! You can also showcase your skills online using the built-in video capture! List of updates:

• Authentic emulation with minimal input lag (input processing and rendering are all done on the same frame).
• Instrument panels with additional gameplay information and artwork in vertical titles.
• Gameplay can be rewinded between 10 and 18 minutes.
• Assist features, such as auto-fire.
• Very Easy Mode, allowing beginners to master each game at their own pace.
• Pixel-perfect display or full-screen scaling in both windowed and full-screen modes.
• Rotate the game in 90-degree increments.
• Choose between Raw Windows Input or Steam Input.
• You can practice your skills using the practice mode.
• A brand new Mirror Mode (in select titles).

... and more! This collection of beloved shooters was so much fun to put together, and we hope you enjoy it. Our team is working hard on Vol. 3 right now, and we'll let you know when it's ready. Follow us on social media (@bitwavegames) to stay updated!

[ 2023-08-24 12:37:15 CET ] [ Original post ]

Hey shmupers! We've just released the seventh patch for Zero Wing, which comes with some tweaks to the game to increase the overall quality and experience. Patch notes: - Framerate improved and better balanced - Rendering improved - Audio quality improved - Added option to start as Player 2 - New border art added - Live border graphics added for a better look - Added setting for scanlines ghosting - Leaderboards updated with button icons - Important buttons are shown at the start If you have any questions, reach out to us in the comments or on social media (@bitwavegames).

[ 2023-08-24 12:20:34 CET ] [ Original post ]

We're releasing our second wave of Toaplan Arcade Shoot 'Em Ups on Steam and GOG on August 24! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wR5tEUTFDA Vol. 2 features four highly anticipated Toaplan classics emulated in high quality and enhanced with tons of quality-of-life features. You can purchase all four games together for 19.99$/ or separately for 7.79$/. Be sure to wishlist all four titles to prepare for launch day! SHMUPS INCLUDED IN VOL. 2

• Hellfire: Toaplan's first side-scrolling shooter, known for its blazing graphics and strategic gameplay. Save the galaxy by burning aliens to ashes with the ultimate firepower!
• Slap Fight (AKA Alcon): A brain-melting vertical shooter with gauge-based power-ups that'll get your blood pumping!
• Fire Shark: Set the skies ablaze and endure white-knuckle shmup action in this no-nonsense aerial trial! Fly solo or play in co-op.
• Flying Shark (AKA Sky Shark): A military shmup adventure with destructive power-ups, stunning graphics, and evil enemy forces to destroy!

Each game features quick save/resume, online leaderboards for single credit players, no assist and assisted modes, and Achievements (for bragging rights)! You can also showcase your skills online using the built-in video capture! List of updates:

• Authentic emulation with minimal input lag (input processing and rendering are all done on the same frame).
• Instrument panels with additional gameplay information and artwork in vertical titles.
• Gameplay can be rewinded between 10 and 18 minutes.
• Assist features, such as auto-fire.
• Very Easy Mode, allowing beginners to master each game at their own pace.
• Pixel-perfect display or full-screen scaling in both windowed and full-screen modes.
• Rotate the game in 90-degree increments.
• Choose between Raw Windows Input or Steam Input.
• You can practice your skills using the practice mode.
• A brand new Mirror Mode (in select titles).

... and more! This collection of beloved shooters was so much fun to put together, and we hope you enjoy it. Our team is working hard on Vol. 3 right now, and we'll let you know when it's ready. Get ready for August 24 by adding all four games to your Wishlist! Follow us on Twitter (@bitwavegames) to stay updated!

[ 2023-08-03 13:12:18 CET ] [ Original post ]

Hi all! We've just updated Zero Wing with a new patch. It's fixing issues with controller input on macOS. If you have any questions, let us know by writing a comment or ping us on social media @bitwavegames.

[ 2023-07-26 08:19:26 CET ] [ Original post ]

Hi all! Today we're updating Zero Wing with a brand new patch. It's the smallest one yet and brings button icons to the game's menu for a more convenient visual look. If you have any questions, let us know by writing a comment or ping us on social media @bitwavegames.

[ 2023-06-27 12:41:41 CET ] [ Original post ]

Hey everybody! We've just released the latest patch for Zero Wing. Updating will help ensure a smoother and more stable gameplay experience.

• Achievement fix: Awarding Zero Wing mini boss achievements tweaked a bit
• Leaderboards fix: The leaderboard checkpoint statistic is now calculated correctly in the co-op version
• Menu fix: Standardized the menu appearance between all games for a more cohesive look
• Settings Save fix: All settings should now save and load correctly
• Menu fix: Added "Reset to Default" option for the TV color values
• Assist Mode fix: Enabling Arcade Mode turns off "Show Hitboxes"
• Bug fix: fixed issues where CRT and TV color values would sometimes save incorrectly
• Audio filter: Optional Echo, Reverb, Low-Pass and High-Pass filters added
• Bug fix: The Save/Load and Start Replay menus now scroll if you have more than eight saves or replays
• Resolution fix: Allow UI scaling of 200% for exceptionally high resolution monitors
• Rewind fix: Fixed issue where rewinding while recording would break and desync the recording
• Replay fix: Starting a recording now prevents you from rewinding further back than from the start of the recording
• Save/Load fix: The game no longer crashes when you open the save/load menu if you have more than 32 save files
• Replay fix: The game no longer crashes when you open the replay menu if you have more than 32 recordings
• Controller fix: Added a shortcut to open the Steam Input controller remapping window from the Input menu, if Steam Input is selected
• Bug fix: Toggling fullscreen with ALT+ENTER no longer closes the pause menu
• Save/Load fix: When loading quick saves players are requested to press start to assign controllers to each player
• Bug fix: Fixed Insert Coin when using Raw Input and joined a game
• Fullscreen fix: The game now launches in fullscreen mode if launched via Steam Big Picture Mode
• Updated menu navigation: added scrolling where appropriate and improved navigation logic for menus with multiple columns
• Rewind update: Added the ability to rewind faster by holding the speedup button and the rewind button simultaneously
• Rewind fix: You can now fast-rewind and fast-forward with the left and right bumpers in the rewind UI
• Bug fix: Fixed bug where the pause menu logo was shown in the rewind UI
• Leaderboards fix: Scores achieved in Practice Mode are no longer uploaded to the leaderboards
• Leaderboard fix: Entries with invalid details (area counter, shot counter etc) no longer display any details

If you have any questions or feedback, let us know!

• Zero Wing
• OFF
• 8
• 200%
• 32
• 32
• Steam InputInput
• ALT + ENTER
• Raw Input
• SteamBig Picture

[ 2023-03-29 12:08:48 CET ] [ Original post ]

Shmupers! Listen! We've got some highly important information regarding high-score entries in Out Zone, Zero Wing, and Twin Cobra. Please read the information below carefully. Unfortunately, some older leaderboard entries in Out Zone, Zero Wing, and Twin Cobra contain incorrect metadata. This metadata is the additional information displayed next to your score, such as the number of bullets fired, enemies destroyed, and so on. Currently, this incorrect metadata is displayed even though the data does not make any sense. With the latest patch coming soon, we've set it up so that when we detect that the stored metadata is incorrect, we simply don't render it in the UI. Instead, only the score, username, and ranking will be displayed. The underlying issue that caused this incorrect metadata should now be solved, and any scores you achieve now and in the future will have correct metadata. Additionally, this issue ONLY affected metadata - which means the saved scores are correct regardless of whether the metadata is visible. We're sorry about this. Thank you for understanding!

[ 2023-03-28 13:38:02 CET ] [ Original post ]

Hey all! We've just updated Out Zone, Zero Wing, Truxton, and Twin Cobra with the third patch! Updating will help ensure a smoother and more stable gameplay experience. We'll continue to add improvements, fixes, and features in the future, so please stay tuned for more! This time we're adding, by request of the community, a brand new version of Out Zone that we've named common. Back in the day, Out Zone was modified over time, and several versions exist. Our "normal" version that was part of the release on February 14 turned out not to be the one many players are familiar with. "Common" is similar to the "hard" version already included but has differences we hope you'll enjoy.

• The full Japanese ending is translated to English when playing in a region other than Japan
• The full set of secrets
• Its own set of boss achievements and leaderboards
• Several sound effects in the original arcade versions were improved between the normal and common version

Full patch notes for all four games: Out Zone

• Out Zone ROM update: Common version added
• New leaderboards added: One for Default Game settings, one for No-Assist for the competitive spirits
• Leaderboards fix: The first letter of the top scorer fixed
• Auto-dodge assist feature improved
• Audio backend update: Support for a wider range of audio drivers
• Audio fix: Sound now plays at a consistent tempo
• Bug fix: Duplicate menus when canceling the save file dialog are now gone
• Bug fix: All game settings are now on default from scratch
• Save data fix: Windows users with wide characters in their user path can save correctly
• Name fix: Fixed the name of Super Burner in the UI

Truxton

• New leaderboards added: One for Default Game settings, one for No-Assist for the competitive spirits
• Assist Mode bug fixed: Setting now saved when loading game settings
• Audio backend update: Support for a wider range of audio drivers
• Audio fix: Sound now plays at a consistent tempo
• Bug fix: Duplicate menus when canceling the save file dialog are now gone
• Bug fix: All game settings are now on default from scratch
• Save data fix: Windows users with wide characters in their user path can save correctly

Twin Cobra

• New leaderboards added: One for Default Game settings, one for No-Assist for the competitive spirits
• Audio backend update: Support for a wider range of audio drivers
• Audio fix: Sound now plays at a consistent tempo
• Widescreen fix: Gameplay in widescreen mode improved
• Bug fix: Crash that occurred after "COIN: AUTOMATIC" option was set in Kyuukyoku Tiger is now fixed
• Bug fix: Duplicate menus when canceling the save file dialog are now gone
• Bug fix: All game settings are now on default from scratch
• Save data fix: Windows users with wide characters in their user path can save correctly

Zero Wing

• New leaderboards added: One for Default Game settings, one for No-Assist for the competitive spirits
• Start-up fix: Single-player version selected directly
• Audio backend update: Support for a wider range of audio drivers
• Audio fix: Sound now plays at a consistent tempo
• Bug fix: Duplicate menus when canceling the save file dialog are now gone
• Bug fix: All game settings are now on default from scratch
• Save data fix: Windows users with wide characters in their user path can save correctly

[ 2023-03-17 09:23:04 CET ] [ Original post ]

Hey all! We've just updated Zero Wing with the third patch. Updating will help ensure a smoother and more stable gameplay experience. Patch notes:

• New leaderboards added: One for Default Game settings, one for No-Assist for the competitive spirits
• Start-up fix: Single-player version selected directly
• Audio backend update: Support for a wider range of audio drivers
• Audio fix: Sound now plays at a consistent tempo
• Bug fix: Duplicate menus when canceling the save file dialog are now gone
• Bug fix: All game settings are now on default from scratch
• Save data fix: Windows users with wide characters in their user path can save correctly

We'll continue to add improvements, fixes, and features in the future, so please stay tuned for more!

[ 2023-03-17 09:20:58 CET ] [ Original post ]

Hey all! We've just updated Zero Wing to address some of the issues pointed out. Please note that we're already working on future fixes, improvements, and features. Stay tuned for more!

• Choose your framerate: 60 Hz or original for authentic feeling
• Insert coin option: Enable or disable the classic arcade start screen
• COIN button added to controllers
• Settings bug fixed: Full screen display / resolution and refresh rate saved correctly
• Border art fix: Enabling border tutorial will no longer enable border art
• Scanline save settings fix: Scanline settings are now saved correctly and a restore default option has been added
• HUD issues fixed
• Raw Input Button Icons: Additional button icons added for common game controllers
• Sound quality fix: Improvement by better frame rate control
• Practice Mode improvement: Speed Pickup Option added
• Sound quality improvements (Work in Progress)
• Added an option to restore game defaults (zero all DIP switches)

• 60HzORIGINALORIGINAL
• OVERLAYTUTORIAL
• Raw Input

[ 2023-03-09 13:25:38 CET ] [ Original post ]

We have updated Zero Wing, Truxton, Twin Cobra, and Out Zone with the latest patch containing several updates. Updating will help ensure a smoother and more stable gameplay experience. For Zero Wing, we spent months creating a reimagined version of the famous intro cutscene that spawned the world-class meme "All your base are belong to us." The original arcade version of Zero Wing never got an intro of its own. We are thrilled to offer you the famous intro as part of today's update. [previewyoutube=hWlNx_R3q6g;full][/previewyoutube] There are some differences from what you're used to, but don't worry. All the good stuff is still there. It's a great addition, along with the other updates. We hope you love it! We'll continue to add improvements, fixes, and features in the future, so please stay tuned for more! Full patch notes: Zero Wing

• Intro cutscene added: Choose either the English or Japanese version
• Steam Controller Refresh: Fixes for Xbox controller, added support for Xbox 360 controller, fix for 8bitdo arcade stick RT/LT
• Steam Input Fire: Fire Button (without auto fire) is now functional
• Raw Input Button Icons: Weve begun adding additional button icons for known controller types
• Japanese language set by default if the system language is Japanese (unless saved in the config file)
• Death counter: Fixed detection of player death
• Reset the game from the main menu

Out Zone

• Steam Controller Refresh: Fixes for Xbox controller, added support for Xbox 360 controller, fix for 8bitdo arcade stick RT/LT
• Steam Input Fire: Fire Button (without auto fire) is now functional
• Raw Input Button Icons: Weve begun adding additional button icons for known controller types.
• Japanese language set by default if the system language is Japanese (unless saved in the config file)
• Death counter: Fixed detection of player death
• Fixed cases of missing background art.
• 1CC / 2CC co-op achievements fixed
• Changed music order for Out Zone normal
• Reset the game from the main menu

Truxton

• Steam Controller Refresh: Fixes for Xbox controller, added support for Xbox 360 controller, fix for 8bitdo arcade stick RT/LT
• Steam Input Fire: Fire Button (without auto fire) is now functional
• Raw Input Button Icons: Weve begun adding additional button icons for known controller types.
• Japanese language set by default if the system language is Japanese (unless saved in the config file)
• Boss 18 Achievement: Fixed wrong test for completion of Boss 18
• Extra Life Setting: Fixed values in wrong order
• Fixed extra life setting in game menu
• Reset the game from the main menu

Twin Cobra

• Steam Controller Refresh: Fixes for Xbox controller, added support for Xbox 360 controller, fix for 8bitdo arcade stick RT/LT
• Steam Input Fire: Fire Button (without auto fire) is now functional
• Raw Input Button Icons: Weve begun adding additional button icons for known controller types
• Japanese language set by default if the system language is Japanese (unless saved in the config file)
• Wide Mode: Restored wide mode positioning after death in Kyuukyoku Tiger
• Fixed extra life setting in game menu
• Reset the game from the main menu

[ 2023-03-02 13:27:22 CET ] [ Original post ]

We have updated Zero Wing with the latest patch containing several updates. Updating will help ensure a smoother and more stable gameplay experience.

• Intro cutscene added: Choose either the English or Japanese version
• Steam Controller Refresh: Fixes for Xbox controller, added support for Xbox 360 controller, fix for 8bitdo arcade stick RT/LT
• Steam Input Fire: Fire Button (without auto fire) is now functional
• Raw Input Button Icons: Weve begun adding additional button icons for known controller types.
• Japanese language set by default if the system language is Japanese (unless saved in the config file)
• Death counter: Fixed detection of player death
• Reset the game from the main menu

We'll continue to add improvements, fixes, and features in the future, so please stay tuned for more! [previewyoutube=hWlNx_R3q6g;full][/previewyoutube]

• SteamXboxXbox 3608bitdoRT/LT
• Steam Input
• Raw Input

[previewyoutube=IR1GSpPA3Ks;full][/previewyoutube]

[ 2023-03-02 13:25:53 CET ] [ Original post ]

It's here! Toaplan Arcade Shoot 'Em Up Collection Vol.1 is finally out on Steam! We at Bitwave are proud to have worked on this project with our Japanese friends at Tatsujin. Vol. 1 includes four Toaplan classics with high-quality emulation and tons of quality-of-life extras. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwXoPPNx5QY Games included in Vol. 1 (available as a bundle or separately):

• Zero Wing - Cult co-op shooter famous for "All your base" is now available on PC!
• Out Zone - Hardcore co-op run-and-gun classic available for the first time outside the arcades!
• Twin Cobra - Fly solo or play together in this fast-paced aerial shmup! Available for the first time on PC!
• Truxton - Blood-pumping sci-fi shmup with massive stages and awesome weapons. Out now for the first time on PC!

Each game features quick save/resume, online leaderboards for single credit players, no assist and assisted modes, and Achievements (for bragging rights)! You can also showcase your skills online using the built-in video capture! List of updates:

• Authentic emulation with minimal input lag (input processing and rendering are all done on the same frame).
• Instrument panels with additional gameplay information and artwork.
• Gameplay can be rewinded between 10 and 18 minutes.
• Assist features such as auto-fire.
• Very Easy Mode, allowing beginners to master each game at their own pace.
• Pixel-perfect display or full-screen scaling in both windowed and full-screen modes.
• Rotate the game in 90-degree increments.
• Choose between Raw Input on Windows or Steam Input.
• You can practice your skills using the practice mode.
• ... and more!

Putting together this collection of beloved shooters was so much fun, and we hope you love it. Our team is working hard on Vol. 2 right now, and we'll let you know as soon as it's ready. For now, let's get to work pumping lead into our enemies! We can't wait to see your high scores! Follow us on Twitter

[ 2023-02-14 12:04:47 CET ] [ Original post ]

Today were pumped to announce that Toaplan Arcade Shoot Em Up Collection Vol.1 hits Steam on February 14, 2023. Forget the flowers this Valentine's Day - start building the ultimate library of classic arcade shmups with your beloved one instead! [previewyoutube=AlNWV4QQYgk;full][/previewyoutube] Toaplan Arcade Shoot Em Up Collection Vol.1 consists of a well-curated selection of classic shmups; Zero Wing, Out Zone, Twin Cobra, and Truxton, all enhanced with Quality of Life features, Achievements, Online Leaderboards, and much more. We cant wait to hear what you think! Remember to follow us on Twitter and join our Discord for the latest updates. See you all on the battlefield!

[ 2022-12-13 15:15:30 CET ] [ Original post ]

Hi shmupers! We're introducing Community Challenges on our Discord! The rules are simple: 1 A new challenge every week 2 One lucky winner for each challenge 3 The winner gets cool Toaplan stickers What are you waiting for? JOIN TODAY.

[ 2022-12-02 12:07:02 CET ] [ Original post ]

Hey shmupers! While trying to pinpoint a release date, we looked at all the content we want to include, and decided to push the release of Out Zone, Truxton, Twin Cobra, and Zero Wing till early 2023. However, the extra development time will help us make these ports as true to the original as possible while also adding Quality of Life features such as instrument panels with extra gameplay information and artwork, Quick Save, Very Easy Mode, Achievements, and much more. Thank you for your support and understanding! We can't wait to see you all enjoying these arcade cult classics when they hit Steam 2023. Till next time, watch our previous announcement videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0w9v2-DpxY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evlB47kaqRU

[ 2022-11-21 09:54:33 CET ] [ Original post ]

Dearest Bullet Wave Surfers, My name is Carl-Henrik Skrstedt, the developer on the PC Toaplan Shoot 'em up Collection here at Bitwave Games.
Developer Carl-Henrik Skrstedt and Community Manager Andras Gransson Today I would like to share more information after the announcement video. I hope you've already watched it, but if not, please check it out below before you continue reading. [previewyoutube=B0w9v2-DpxY;full][/previewyoutube] This iteration of the project started one year ago. I had lunch with my friend Martin Lindell, who hinted I could help make PC versions of the classic Toaplan arcade games. I replied that I had already completed it! I was talking about The Flying Shark Emulator, later renamed the Shark Emulator. It was a project that Magnus Danielsson and I created nearly 25 years ago and the first emulator for many of the Toaplan games. What made working on that emulator so special was the community we interacted with. All the fans helped us by requesting more features, sourcing new games to emulate, and so on. We also had a great line of communication with other emulator creators like RAINE and MAME, where everyone helped each other. Check out the list of acknowledgments on the Toaplan Museum website. To document the games featured in the emulator, I also set up Toaplan.com. The website grew quickly thanks to the community, and I am grateful for all the support. Today the website has been renamed Toaplan Museum and is hosted by Jerker Hedlund, as I lost the original domain many years ago. The reason why we're announcing the games now is to be able to hear your thoughts and collect valuable feedback. The best way to get your voice heard is by joining the official Bitwave Games Discord server. But we're not the only ones working on Toaplan-related projects. Don't miss out on "All your base are belong to Toaplan", a feature-length documentary that celebrates the history of Toaplan, scheduled to be available mid-2023. Also, check out ShmupJunkie on Youtube or visit the Shumps.com forums, both with active Discord communities. Shmups.com is a fantastic but inactive site with reviews of some of the games from the Shark emulator. I am thrilled to work directly with some of the original Toaplan staff through Tatsujin Co, Ltd., including the CEO Masahiro Yuge. Masahiro Yuge worked as a designer, composer, and programmer on many of the games we are currently emulating, and he's a true legend. Ps: If you're wondering about the shirt in the video, I accidentally wore one of my favorite t-shirts that day instead of a Bitwave Games shirt. I develop Commodore 64 games in my spare time. One could say it was a happy accident :)

[ 2022-08-26 12:18:13 CET ] [ Original post ]

Greetings, folks! Today were pumped to announce that were dipping our toes into the era of classic arcade gaming, and publishing a number of classic titles from iconic Japanese developer Toaplan on PC! [previewyoutube=B0w9v2-DpxY;full][/previewyoutube] This a project that started 25 years ago, and also the first time that the games are available on personal computers. The release comes with a broad range of quality-of-life enhancements, such as stunning pixel-perfect graphics, rewind, achievements, online leaderboards, sidebar indicators, and a brand new Very Easy mode! Were starting with a wave that will include Truxton, Twin Cobra, Out Zone, and the legendary Zero Wing, where the All your base are belong to us meme came from. They will all be available later this year in a bundle of 4 or sold separately. Oh, and by the way. You can wishlist Out Zone and Zero Wing on Steam today! Which title are you looking forward to the most? Comment below or join our Discord!

[ 2022-08-18 11:51:09 CET ] [ Original post ]