Earthion Image
Metascore
85

Generally favorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews What's this?

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  • Summary: With Earth's resources depleted and its environment in ruin, most of humanity has fled to Mars. But when hostile invaders launch an attack on Earth, mankind has no choice but to fight back. As environmental researcher Azusa Takanashi, you'll pilot the state-of-the-art space fighter YK-IIAWith Earth's resources depleted and its environment in ruin, most of humanity has fled to Mars. But when hostile invaders launch an attack on Earth, mankind has no choice but to fight back. As environmental researcher Azusa Takanashi, you'll pilot the state-of-the-art space fighter YK-IIA and mount the most important counterattack in human history. Losing is not an option!

    Featuring eight action-packed stages full of stunning visuals, frenetic gameplay, and amazing special effects - not to mention an incredible soundtrack composed by the legendary Yuzo Koshiro - Earthion will have you on the edge of your seat as you fight to save humanity's future.
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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 12
  2. Negative: 0 out of 12
  1. Sep 5, 2025
    95
    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.
  2. Aug 12, 2025
    90
    Earthion offers a shoot 'em up experience with everything it takes to become an instant classic of the genre and a fantastic soundtrack worthy of Yuzo Koshiro's legacy.
  3. Jul 31, 2025
    90
    Earthion is one of the most enjoyable and accessible shoot ‘em ups I've ever played, with tons of variety and nostalgic gameplay.
  4. Aug 13, 2025
    90
    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.
  5. Aug 18, 2025
    85
    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.
  6. Sep 22, 2025
    80
    Earthion is a brilliant return to one of the greatest video game genres of all time.
  7. Oct 15, 2025
    60
    Of course, Yuzu Koshiro's soundtrack is stellar and perfectly designed for this challenging, nostalgic game. Still, Earthion could use a few modern features: measuring your progress with passwords that you have to write down is definitely a downside. Because of that, the game still delivers a genuine arcade experience — if you're looking to relive that period, you should try this one.

See all 12 Critic Reviews