Nitro Express Everything We Know

Nitro Express is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the action genre. The game isn’t just another 2D side-scrolling title. It’s a unique blend of classic pixel art and high-octane action, which sets it apart from most titles in the genre.

Players can look forward to a thrilling experience as they unleash a barrage of bullets in the streets of a futuristic Tokyo. If you’re searching for an action-packed adventure game with a twist, Nitro Express promises to deliver excitement at every turn. As its release approaches, here’s everything we know about Nitro Express.

What is Nitro Express?

Nitro Express is a 2D side-scrolling gun action game that combines cute pixel-art characters with intense, fast-paced shooting gameplay. The game is all about unleashing a storm of bullets in the streets of Tokyo. But here’s the twist: these aren’t just any streets; they’re part of a reimagined, futuristic Tokyo filled with all sorts of dangers and excitement. 

Story

The story of Nitro Express takes you to Nitro City, a unique administrative region in Tokyo. But this isn’t the Tokyo you learnt in history classes. It’s a City where autonomous drones, also known as “Companions”, have become a part of everyday life. At first, they were helpful, aiding citizens in various tasks, but things have taken a turn for the worse. Some of these drones, referred to as “Atypical Vehicles,” have gone rogue, posing a serious threat to society.

Now, that’s where the Atypical Vehicle Disposal Squad (AVDS) comes in. As a member of this elite police unit, you must track down and destroy these rogue machines before they cause more damage. The streets of Nitro City are your battleground, and you’ll need all your wits, weapons, and gadgets to survive. 

While the game’s story might not be the deepest narrative you’ve ever seen, it serves as a solid backdrop for the chaotic action that unfolds. Plus, the in-game radio comms make it more immersive by allowing you to dive into the game at your own pace. Alternatively, you can skip it entirely if you’re just here for the action.

Gameplay

Regarding gameplay, Nitro Express features an immersive, fast-paced shooting action. The game offers full 360° aiming. That means you can shoot in any direction as you navigate the streets of Nitro City. The controls are smooth, and the shooting mechanics feel tight, making it easy to jump in and start blasting away at enemies.

But what really sets Nitro Express apart is its arsenal of weapons and gadgets. You’re not limited to just your standard guns. The game offers plenty of firepower to go around. You can pick SMGs that let you spray bullets while on the move. On the other hand, you can pick heavy weapons that pack a serious punch but require you to stand still and aim carefully. 

And let’s not forget about the gadgets. Whether you prefer the explosive power of grenades or the strategic advantage of EMPs, there’s something for everyone. You can also utilize radio-controlled drones and auto-firing turrets. Basically, there’s a gadget to match every playstyle.

The enemies in Nitro Express aren’t pushovers, either. You’ll face many opponents, from smaller, agile drones to massive, armoured tanks and helicopters. Now, here is the catch. Each enemy type requires a different approach; therefore, strategy is vital to the chaotic combat. And while it’s tempting to stick with your favourite weapon, you’ll quickly learn that different situations require different tools.

Additionally, The game encourages replayability. The radio comms that deliver the story are optional, meaning you can focus on the action during your first playthrough and dive into the story on subsequent runs. This approach makes Nitro Express perfect for players who enjoy mastering levels and improving their skills over time.

Development

Nitro Express is developed by Grayfax Software, a team known for its love of classic game design mixed with modern touches. With Nitro Express, they aim to create a game that appeals to old-school shooters and contemporary action game fans. The development team has been refining the gameplay mechanics to ensure the action feels fast, responsive, and satisfying.

One key aspect of the game’s development has been the focus on player feedback. Grayfax Software has been actively engaging with the community and incorporating suggestions and ideas to make Nitro Express the best it can be. This collaborative approach is evident in the game’s polished controls and various gameplay options.

Thumbs up to the devs for crafting such detailed pixel art. The developers have put much effort into creating a world that feels alive, even in 2D. The characters, enemies, and environments are all brought to life with vibrant colours and smooth animations..

Trailer

The game’s announcement trailer gives players a glimpse of the action-packed gameplay they can expect. It’s a short but sweet showcase of what the game offers. Notably, it gives a sneak peek of the explosions, rapid gunfire, and pixelated destruction. 

Similarly, the trailer highlights the game’s 360° aiming system and various weapons and gadgets. Plus, it gives a glimpse of the enemies you’ll face.

The trailer also introduces players to the world of Nitro City, hinting at the story without giving too much away. You get a sense of the City’s atmosphere and the game’s relentless pace. If you enjoy fast, challenging gameplay with pixel-art nostalgia, the trailer does a great job of selling Nitro Express as a game worth keeping an eye on.

Release Date and Platforms

Nitro Express is scheduled for release in 2025. While it’s still a bit of a wait, the excitement around the game is already building. It’s, however, set to launch on PC with full controller support, which is excellent news for players who prefer the feel of a gamepad. Additionally, the game will be available in multiple languages, including English, Japanese, and Simplified Chinese, ensuring it can reach a broad audience.

So, what’s your take? Will you pick up a copy of Nitro Express when it drops in 2025? Let us know over on our socials here.