Published on: August 15, 2025
Project X: Light Years Marks Its Official Steam Debut Backed by Team17 and MK Games
After a year of anticipation, Project X: Light Years—the official successor to the iconic 1992 Amiga shoot 'em up—has launched on Steam.
Developed by MK Games and officially endorsed by Team17, this title revives classic horizontal shooter action for a new generation, blending nostalgia with 21st-century enhancements.
The project, which originated as a successful Kickstarter campaign led by Retronix (a long-time Amiga enthusiast), sought to rekindle the magic of the original Project X while offering fresh features and modern accessibility on PC.
Kickstarter Backers First in Line
In a social media update, MK Games expressed deep gratitude to fans who supported their vision from early sketches to the finished product: "Tomorrow marks the release of a game we’ve devoted over a year to creating—a journey made possible by the steadfast support of our community.
Your belief in this project, from funding to encouragement, has turned our vision into reality." The studio emphasized that the finished game represents a collective achievement, stating that every aspect of development was influenced by its backers.
Codes for the full release have already begun rolling out to supporters via Kickstarter.
Features That Honor the Legacy
Project X: Light Years refines the fast-paced space battles of its Amiga predecessor, updating the formula with high-definition visuals and newly remixed tracks from renowned composer Allister Brimble, who contributed the original game’s music.
The title introduces over 35 random power-ups, two-player co-op mode, and global online leaderboards.
Additionally, a playable demo is currently available via the game's Steam page, allowing new players and veterans alike to experience its gameplay before purchase.
Official Team17 Involvement
Originally, Retronix launched the campaign with the belief that Team17’s trademarks on Project X had lapsed, but sought explicit support from the famed British publisher regardless.
In a notable development, Team17 officially licensed the rights to MK Games, cementing Project X: Light Years as a sanctioned follow-up.
While Team17 is not directly handling development or publishing, it is participating in an advisory capacity to ensure quality and consistency.
The agreement between the companies specifically bars the use of AI-generated voice acting and assets, underscoring a commitment to authenticity and polish.
Community-Driven Development and Funding Options
MK Games has highlighted the complexities of reviving such a beloved franchise, crediting fan contributions with propelling the project to completion.
For those interested in supporting the title, funding tiers remain open through Kickstarter, starting at £10 for a digital Steam copy.
Higher-tier backers can access rewards such as the digital and physical soundtrack (available on CD and vinyl), opportunities to design in-game enemy waves, and the chance to be credited within the game itself.
A Modern Reimagining for New and Returning Fans
Blending retro-inspired mechanics with modern polish, Project X: Light Years demonstrates how classic franchises can successfully adapt to today’s gaming landscape.
As it launches on Steam, players and longtime fans of the Amiga original can look forward to a faithful yet refreshed experience, crafted with the direct input of the Project X community and the continued guidance of Team17.
For more details, including the downloadable demo, visit the official Steam page.