Rigel Gameworks has announced that BioMenace Remastered will arrive on Nintendo Switch on October 8, 2026.
The release brings a modernized version of the 1993 MS-DOS run-and-gun action platformer to Nintendo’s current console line, offering both visual upgrades and a substantial amount of new content.
Background and context
Originally developed by solo designer James Norwood and released via Apogee Software in 1993, BioMenace is a 2D action platformer that built a reputation for fast-paced run-and-gun gameplay.
Rigel Gameworks’ remaster preserves the classic structure—three original episodes and dozens of levels—while adding enhanced graphics, updated systems, and a brand-new fourth episode titled “Menace from Above.” The Switch edition will be distributed digitally through the Nintendo eShop.
Developer statements (rewritten)
Rigel Gameworks says the remaster modernizes the original experience with "enhanced graphics, refined gameplay, and a number of quality-of-life improvements." The studio also notes players can explore the three original episodes (more than 36 levels) plus a newly created fourth episode with over 15 additional levels.
Key features and additions
- Enhanced visuals including widescreen support, smooth scrolling at 60 FPS or higher, and parallax backgrounds
- Option to switch between original and remastered graphics at any time
- Modernized HUD and UI, full controller support, and rebalanced difficulty
- Improved collision detection with per-pixel accuracy, weapon and grenade switching, infinite lives option, a kill-streak system, mid-level saves and quick saving
- Completion and stats tracking, leaderboards, achievements, built-in level editor and support for user-made levels
- Audio includes the original Bobby Prince soundtrack plus new AdLib tracks
About Episode 4: Menace from Above
The new episode adds at least 15 regular stages plus secret levels, new environments and artwork, 13 new music tracks, two new boss encounters, additional NPCs and a continuation of the story set a few years after the original game.
Availability
BioMenace Remastered will be available digitally on Nintendo Switch via the eShop starting October 8, 2026.
Rigel Gameworks has released a trailer alongside the announcement to showcase the remaster’s visuals, level design and new episode.
The release brings a modernized version of the 1993 MS-DOS run-and-gun action platformer to Nintendo’s current console line, offering both visual upgrades and a substantial amount of new content.
Background and context
Originally developed by solo designer James Norwood and released via Apogee Software in 1993, BioMenace is a 2D action platformer that built a reputation for fast-paced run-and-gun gameplay.
Rigel Gameworks’ remaster preserves the classic structure—three original episodes and dozens of levels—while adding enhanced graphics, updated systems, and a brand-new fourth episode titled “Menace from Above.” The Switch edition will be distributed digitally through the Nintendo eShop.
Developer statements (rewritten)
Rigel Gameworks says the remaster modernizes the original experience with "enhanced graphics, refined gameplay, and a number of quality-of-life improvements." The studio also notes players can explore the three original episodes (more than 36 levels) plus a newly created fourth episode with over 15 additional levels.
Key features and additions
- Enhanced visuals including widescreen support, smooth scrolling at 60 FPS or higher, and parallax backgrounds
- Option to switch between original and remastered graphics at any time
- Modernized HUD and UI, full controller support, and rebalanced difficulty
- Improved collision detection with per-pixel accuracy, weapon and grenade switching, infinite lives option, a kill-streak system, mid-level saves and quick saving
- Completion and stats tracking, leaderboards, achievements, built-in level editor and support for user-made levels
- Audio includes the original Bobby Prince soundtrack plus new AdLib tracks
About Episode 4: Menace from Above
The new episode adds at least 15 regular stages plus secret levels, new environments and artwork, 13 new music tracks, two new boss encounters, additional NPCs and a continuation of the story set a few years after the original game.
Availability
BioMenace Remastered will be available digitally on Nintendo Switch via the eShop starting October 8, 2026.
Rigel Gameworks has released a trailer alongside the announcement to showcase the remaster’s visuals, level design and new episode.
