Retro-Bit Delays Toaplan Shooters Collection 2 Pre-Orders Amid Game Issue
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Published on: November 13, 2024
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Retro-Bit Delays Toaplan Shooters Collection 2 Pre-Orders Amid Game Issue
Retro-Bit, a prominent publisher known for reviving classic video game titles, has announced the postponement of pre-orders for its highly anticipated Toaplan Shooters Collection 2.
Originally scheduled for release on the SEGA Genesis and Mega Drive platforms, the collection features beloved arcade shooters Twin Cobra, Slap Fight, and Grind Stormer—each treasured among shoot 'em up enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Toaplan Shooters Collection 2 was first announced in October 2024 as the follow-up to Retro-Bit's successful 2019 release, which included four classic Toaplan games: Hellfire, Truxton, Fire Shark, and Zero Wing.
Developed in collaboration with Tatsujin—a studio founded by Toaplan veteran Masahiro Yuge—the initiative has focused on delivering authentic, collector-grade physical editions of these rare shooters.
Each edition is set to feature transparent cartridges, reversible inlays, full-color manuals, and individually numbered slipcovers.
However, on November 13, 2024, Retro-Bit issued a statement via social media notifying fans of the pre-order postponement.
While the publisher did not indicate which specific title in the collection was affected, it clarified that all three games—Twin Cobra, Slap Fight, and Grind Stormer—would be delayed until further notice.
Retro-Bit directed customers seeking refunds to their respective retailers, assuring the community that additional information would be provided once the underlying issue was resolved.
"We at Retro-Bit are committed to providing the highest quality and best experience with each officially licensed cartridge release," the company stated.
"Unfortunately, the licensor has brought to our attention an issue with one of the games in the Toaplan Shooters Vol.
2 Collection.
In response, we are temporarily postponing pre-orders with our exclusive retailers.
We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding and continued support."
This development marks the second notable complication related to Toaplan titles this year.
In September 2024, digital versions of Grind Stormer and Slap Fight were listed for upcoming release on modern consoles—including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S—by Shinyuden and Ratalaika Games.
The listings were subsequently removed from the Tokyo Game Show website at the publisher’s request, and no further statements have been made regarding the digital reissues.
Despite the setback, anticipation for the Toaplan Shooters Collection 2 remains high.
The collector’s editions, priced at $54.99 (€69.99) each or in a special three-pack for $159.99 (€189.99), include exclusive items such as a commemorative slipcase, a celebratory digital clock, a developer interview with Masahiro Yuge, and a signature sticker set.
The collection aims to bring rare, often region-exclusive titles—like Slap Fight MD, which was initially only released in Japan—to a broader, global audience of retro gaming fans.
Pre-orders for the collection were initially slated to close on December 1st.
Retro-Bit assures its community that updates will be shared as soon as the issue is resolved, reaffirming its dedication to preserving gaming history through meticulously crafted physical releases.
