Pre-orders for Psyvariar 3 are now available, marking an exciting milestone for fans of the classic shoot ’em up series.
Launch Details and Platforms:
Psyvariar 3, the highly anticipated sequel in the shoot ’em up series, is set to launch on March 19, 2026. The game will be released for Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. This announcement comes from SUCCESS Corporation, in collaboration with Red Art Games, Red Art Studios, and Banana Bytes.
The physical Standard and Deluxe Editions are planned exclusively for PlayStation 5 in Europe. While the Standard Edition offers a straightforward physical copy, the Deluxe Edition is limited to 500 copies and can only be obtained through the Red Art Games online store.
Deluxe Edition Contents:
The Deluxe Edition of Psyvariar 3 is packed with exclusive collectibles. Key inclusions are detailed below:
- A full copy of the game.
- An exclusive sleeve featuring alternative cover art.
- A unique magnet set.
These items enhance the collector’s experience and celebrates the franchise’s legacy.
Celebrating the 25th Anniversary:
The release of Psyvariar 3 commemorates the 25th anniversary of the original Psyvariar. One notable addition is the inclusion of Cotton from the beloved Cotton series as a fully playable pilot, complete with her own ship and abilities.
Story and Legacy Overview
Psyvariar 3 is situated many years after the events of Psyvariar 2. Following the fall of ETA, a faction of Psyvariars is determined that Earth must not be abandoned. A vow is made to reclaim and colonize it, with GUIS emerging from its ruins to fulfill its initial purpose.
Decades later, the Earth colony is thriving. However, an alien signal is detected, sparking widespread dread as Gluon particles appear. The skies are darkened by a returning terror, and Earth faces siege once more. A new generation of Psyvariars must rise to defend humanity.
Launched in 2000 with Psyvariar: Medium Unit in Japanese arcades, the series has since appeared on platforms including PlayStation 2, Dreamcast, Xbox, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch. As the sequel to the acclaimed vertical shoot ’em up, Psyvariar 3 is crafted with deep respect for its roots by genre enthusiasts.
Developed through collaboration between Banana Bytes (known for Sophstar), Red Art Games, and Red Art Studios—under the guidance of IP holder SUCCESS—Psyvariar 3 expands on the franchise’s iconic “buzz” mechanic. New characters, refined controls, and diverse game modes are introduced, while seven unique pilots with distinct abilities and scoring systems ensure fidelity to arcade origins. Enhanced replayability and accessibility are provided for modern players.
Key Features of Psyvariar 3:
The game boasts a range of innovative and nostalgic elements. Highlights include:
- Seven playable characters, each equipped with unique shot types, buzz and bomb mechanics, and scoring systems.
- Guest character Cotton from the Cotton series, fully integrated with her dedicated ship and abilities.
- A refined buzz system that rewards precise bullet grazing through score boosts and shield chains.
- An updated signature roll mechanic, optimized for modern controllers while retaining the original arcade “wiggle” input for added fluidity and advantage.
- Neutrino and shield system, enabling access to shields, speed boosts, and weapon enhancements via buzzing and shooting.
- Strategic bomb variations, featuring short and long types with character-specific effects.
- Multiple game modes, including Arcade, Arrange, Mission (with 49 short challenges), Caravan, Endless, and Practice.
- Dynamic difficulty selection that unlocks challenging routes and exclusive boss encounters based on player performance.
- Seven distinct areas and bosses, each with attack patterns varying by difficulty level.
- Arcade-perfect intensity, maintaining the high-risk, high-reward action synonymous with the series.
- Neo-retro 3D aesthetics, drawing inspiration from early Psyvariar titles.
