Classic Robot Shooter Changeable Guardian ESTIQUE Lands on Modern Consoles in 2026
Heads up, retro gaming fans! AMATA Games is bringing Changeable Guardian ESTIQUE, a side-scrolling shooter originally crafted for the Famicom/NES, to modern platforms! I'm talking PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC via Steam and the Microsoft Store. However, you'll have to wait until 2026 to get your hands on it.
Originally released back in 2024, this port isn't just a simple rehash. Both the Famicom and NES versions, which feature unique storylines, are included. Plus, there's a brand new gallery mode so you can deep dive into the game's development. How cool is that?
In Changeable Guardian ESTIQUE, you're thrown into a world where you control the super-variable robot "Estique". You can switch between two forms. The "Fighter Form" is great for dodging, while the "Robot Form" lets you tank through terrain damage. Mastering both is key! Also, did I mention the "Super Weapon" special attack? Rapid-fire that shot button to unleash it!
The story? Earth's getting hammered by space pirates in 2413, and it's up to ace pilots Mary and Kanon to save the day. They are riding ESTIQUE, a robot sent by the friendly planet Petelgeuse. The game also has quick save/load and rewind functions. Even better, you can slap on a CRT filter for that truly retro look.
Source: Gamatsu