Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution Launching Summer 2024 on Nintendo Switch and Modern Platforms

WayForward, the renowned indie developer behind the acclaimed Shantae series, is set to release Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution—an eagerly anticipated, previously cancelled entry in the iconic platformer franchise—this summer on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

This marks a significant moment for Shantae fans and gaming historians alike, as a once-shelved project from two decades ago is finally seeing an official release across modern hardware platforms. The story behind Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution is a testament to the resilience and creative passion at WayForward.

Originally conceived as a direct sequel to the 2002 Game Boy Color classic, development on Risky Revolution started in 2002 for the Game Boy Advance.

However, following modest sales figures for the first game and challenges in securing a publishing partner, WayForward made the difficult decision to halt the project in 2004.

For years, Risky Revolution lingered as an intriguing 'lost chapter' in the Shantae saga, while the series itself made a triumphant comeback in 2010 and cultivated a dedicated fanbase over subsequent releases, including Shantae and the Pirate’s Curse and Shantae: Half-Genie Hero. In 2023, WayForward surprised fans by formally announcing the revival of Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution, with development focused on bringing the unfinished game to a broader audience.

The game made its public debut with a Game Boy Advance cartridge release last month, catering to collectors and retro enthusiasts.

However, much of the attention shifted to Nintendo's future hardware, which briefly eclipsed the historic release.

Now, with the upcoming HD remaster for modern platforms, Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution is poised for mainstream recognition. This enhanced version retains the core gameplay and level designs envisioned for the Game Boy Advance original but introduces upscaled visuals, refined sprites, and reimagined artwork.

Fans can choose between a 'Classic Mode', faithfully emulating the GBA’s visual style, or 'Modern Mode' with crisp HD assets and updated character portraits.

The game’s setting is nestled narratively between the original Shantae and Shantae: Risky’s Revenge, following the titular half-genie heroine as she faces off against her arch-nemesis Risky Boots, encounters new characters, and discovers fresh abilities vital for her quest.

Additionally, Risky Revolution introduces a multiplayer battle mode that makes full use of contemporary widescreen displays—an experience not possible on the original handheld hardware. WayForward’s commitment to finishing Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution not only fills an important gap in the series chronology but also demonstrates the enduring appeal of classic platformers on platforms such as Nintendo Switch and the thriving digital marketplace of the Nintendo eShop.

As the summer 2024 launch approaches, anticipation is high for both long-time Shantae fans and new players to experience this rediscovered gem in the beloved franchise.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo PlayStation PC Xbox Switch WayForward