Xeno Crisis SNES Release: Bitmap Bureau Delivers Twin-Stick Action to Nintendo’s 16-Bit Classic

Xeno Crisis, the celebrated twin-stick shooter developed by UK-based Bitmap Bureau, has finally made its debut on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES).

Known for their dedication to bringing the intense, arcade-style shooter to as many classic platforms as possible—including Neo Geo, Dreamcast, GameCube, and Nintendo 64—Bitmap Bureau has answered longtime fan requests by launching Xeno Crisis on Nintendo’s iconic 16-bit console. Since its original release five years ago, Xeno Crisis has earned acclaim for its fast-paced, run-and-gun action reminiscent of retro arcade hits.

The SNES’s arrival in the Xeno Crisis lineup is a milestone, especially considering the console’s global popularity and well-crafted controller, which lends itself perfectly to the twin-stick shooter format. Recalling early experiences with dual-stick shooters like Super Smash TV on the SNES, Bitmap Bureau has crafted an interface for Xeno Crisis that makes excellent use of the Super Nintendo’s signature diamond-shaped, four-button layout.

Unlike its Sega Mega Drive counterpart, which requires a specialized six-button controller to replicate the full arcade experience, the SNES version offers seamless controls straight out of the box.

This integration allows the game’s precision shooting mechanics to shine, amplifying the experience for both veterans of the genre and newcomers. The SNES hardware also brings unique enhancements to Xeno Crisis, including clear, impactful narration in the game’s introduction and visual effects that leverage the system’s transparency features for dramatic explosions and animations.

Despite being adapted for older hardware, the SNES title retains the core gameplay and high replay value the franchise is known for, cementing it as a standout retro release in 2024. Bitmap Bureau has also catered to collectors and retro enthusiasts with regional editions for North America, Europe, and Japan (Super Famicom).

Each region’s package is complemented by exclusive bonuses, such as posters, postcards, and the energetic soundtrack by Savaged Regime on cassette tape, reinforcing the game’s nostalgic appeal.

Importantly, the included multi-region ROM ensures compatibility across various hardware, with only minor differences in cartridge shapes between the regions.

This design makes it straightforward for European SNES users to enjoy the Super Famicom edition without compatibility concerns, though North American cartridges will still require the appropriate converter for use on other hardware. The release of Xeno Crisis on the SNES is a testament to Bitmap Bureau’s commitment to the retro gaming community.

Their ambition to deliver a quality run-and-gun experience across nearly every major classic platform has set new standards for multi-platform retro titles.

As Xeno Crisis approaches its fifth anniversary this October, the SNES edition stands proud as one of the definitive versions available on vintage hardware, offering both nostalgic charm and robust gameplay for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Nintendo SNES Xbox Series X|S Xeno Crisis Bitmap Bureau Super Famicom Mega Drive Neo Geo Dreamcast GameCube N64