FZ: Formation Z lands on Nintendo Switch 2 as a modern revival of Jaleco’s early 1980s shoot ’em up, developed by Granzella, the studio known for R-Type Final 2.
This horizontal shooter centers on the series’ signature transformation mechanic: a mech that can switch between a ground-based robot and a flying ship.
The Switch 2 version was tested for this review; a review copy was provided by Clear River Games, and the reviewer assigned a total score of 6/10.
Gameplay and features
FZ: Formation Z is a horizontally scrolling shoot ’em up that includes five main stages, each designed with vertical space to emphasize the transformation mechanic.
Clearing a stage unlocks a score-attack variant.
Players earn points in-match that function as currency to unlock upgrades and customizations for both mech and pilot, along with additional playable robots and gallery artwork unlocked via in-game achievements.
There are multiple difficulty settings and a checkpoint system that prevents simply brute-forcing past hazards.
Core mechanics
The game preserves the original concept: swapping between robot and ship at will but consuming energy while airborne.
The review summarized this succinctly: "The core gimmick — swapping between ground-based robot and ship — remains compelling, with energy management ensuring players spend meaningful time on the ground." In robot form players have a laser and a melee attack; melee is necessary against certain armored foes.
Some sections present impassable terrain that forces a switch to flight, reinforcing the hybrid shoot ’em up and scrolling-action design.
Technical performance on Nintendo Switch 2
The review reports two primary technical issues on Nintendo Switch 2: inconsistent framerate and variable resolution scaling.
Framerate is generally steady in calmer segments but can become notably choppy during dense encounters, and resolution fluctuations can make it difficult to read on-screen threats.
Both issues appear in docked and handheld play, with the reviewer noting they are most pronounced in handheld mode.
These technical problems materially affect playability, particularly in tight or high-intensity moments.
Verdict
Granzella has brought a faithful, modernized take on Formation Z’s transformation idea, but the Switch 2 release is hampered by performance problems and a design that leans heavily on grinding for unlockables.
The result, according to the review, is a title that will primarily appeal to dedicated series fans rather than a broader shooter audience.
Version Tested: Nintendo Switch 2
Review Copy Provided by Clear River Games
Reviewer: Shaun Musgrave — Score: 6/10
This horizontal shooter centers on the series’ signature transformation mechanic: a mech that can switch between a ground-based robot and a flying ship.
The Switch 2 version was tested for this review; a review copy was provided by Clear River Games, and the reviewer assigned a total score of 6/10.
Gameplay and features
FZ: Formation Z is a horizontally scrolling shoot ’em up that includes five main stages, each designed with vertical space to emphasize the transformation mechanic.
Clearing a stage unlocks a score-attack variant.
Players earn points in-match that function as currency to unlock upgrades and customizations for both mech and pilot, along with additional playable robots and gallery artwork unlocked via in-game achievements.
There are multiple difficulty settings and a checkpoint system that prevents simply brute-forcing past hazards.
Core mechanics
The game preserves the original concept: swapping between robot and ship at will but consuming energy while airborne.
The review summarized this succinctly: "The core gimmick — swapping between ground-based robot and ship — remains compelling, with energy management ensuring players spend meaningful time on the ground." In robot form players have a laser and a melee attack; melee is necessary against certain armored foes.
Some sections present impassable terrain that forces a switch to flight, reinforcing the hybrid shoot ’em up and scrolling-action design.
Technical performance on Nintendo Switch 2
The review reports two primary technical issues on Nintendo Switch 2: inconsistent framerate and variable resolution scaling.
Framerate is generally steady in calmer segments but can become notably choppy during dense encounters, and resolution fluctuations can make it difficult to read on-screen threats.
Both issues appear in docked and handheld play, with the reviewer noting they are most pronounced in handheld mode.
These technical problems materially affect playability, particularly in tight or high-intensity moments.
Verdict
Granzella has brought a faithful, modernized take on Formation Z’s transformation idea, but the Switch 2 release is hampered by performance problems and a design that leans heavily on grinding for unlockables.
The result, according to the review, is a title that will primarily appeal to dedicated series fans rather than a broader shooter audience.
Version Tested: Nintendo Switch 2
Review Copy Provided by Clear River Games
Reviewer: Shaun Musgrave — Score: 6/10
