Anime Expo 2016: The ‘Azure Striker Gunvolt: Striker Pack’ Ushers In A Physical Release This September

Azure Striker Gunvolt is one of the highlights of the 3DS eShop. The developer behind 2D platforming classics like the Mega Man Zero series took their expertise and showed that they didn’t need Mega Man to shine, creating some compelling mechanics that showed how creative minds can reinvigorate an old genre. With the second game on the way, it looked like the team wanted to give us all an interesting way to catch up.

At Anime Expo 2016, the team announced that they were partnering up with Yacht Club Games, (the group behind the excellent Shovel Knight), to deliver both the first and second games to store shelves as physical copies. Called the Striker Pack, $29.99 will get you both the first and second game one one cartridge, which will mark the first time the series is being released outside of digital platforms. Taking some obvious inspiration from their previous works, the simple, yet effective action platforming made it more important to tag enemies for long range damage instead of shooting them to death. With the second game introducing a second character who locks on by dashing into his foes, these two play styles seem to be suited for both the defensive and offensive player.

With the anime being announced during the same panel, it looks like Gunvolt is making big moves. Check out the game in action below, then make sure to check back with us as we post our hands-on impressions of the new mechanics from the show floor. Are you planning on picking up the game when it releases on September 30? Let us know in the comments!