Changeable Guardian Estique Announced for Nintendo Switch: Amata Games Port Brings NES Classic to New Audiences

Amata Games and Cat Hui Trading have officially announced that Changeable Guardian Estique is coming to Nintendo Switch, with a targeted release window set for 2026.

This news marks a significant milestone for the retro-inspired side-scrolling shooter, which originally debuted on NES and Famicom platforms in 2023, offering a fresh experience to both seasoned fans and newcomers to the genre. Changeable Guardian Estique stands out as a modern creation designed specifically for classic NES cartridge hardware, faithfully capturing the spirit of vintage shoot 'em ups while introducing refined mechanics for contemporary audiences.

The upcoming Nintendo Switch version will bundle both the NES and the Japan-exclusive Famicom editions, each featuring distinct storylines.

Additionally, players can look forward to a newly added gallery mode, showcasing printed materials and visual assets that celebrate the game's artistic legacy. In a prepared statement, representatives for Amata Games underscored the depth and accessibility of Changeable Guardian Estique’s gameplay.

The title features six stages inspired by iconic world cities and centers on the adaptable robot "Estique", capable of seamlessly switching between Fighter Form—boasting a smaller hitbox for precision maneuvers—and Robot Form, which offers immunity to terrain damage and superior recovery features.

Strategic form-switching and mastery of two equipment types are pivotal to overcoming the game's challenges. The scoring system introduces an additional layer of depth through the "Super Weapon" special attack, which can be unleashed by rapid-firing the primary shot button.

Notably, the life system has been designed to regenerate over time, and traditional power-ups have been omitted.

This approach places a premium on accessibility, ensuring that Changeable Guardian Estique can be enjoyed by both beginner and advanced players alike. Set against the backdrop of the year 2413, the story follows Earth as it falls under siege by the nefarious space pirates Van-De-Raus, who seize control of global economic centers.

In a bid to liberate the planet, the allied world of Petelgeuse dispatches ace pilots Mary and Kanon aboard the advanced ESTIQUE, launching a daring mission to reclaim Earth’s future. The anticipated Nintendo Switch release will provide new and returning players with a comprehensive version of Changeable Guardian Estique, accessible via the eShop and optimized for modern Nintendo hardware.

With its blend of faithful retro design, thoughtful new features, and global accessibility, this port stands poised to expand the reach of a unique NES-era shooter on one of today's most popular platforms.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo NES Switch Xbox Series X|S Famicom Guardian Changeable Guardian Estique Xbox X|S Amata Games Cat Hui Trading