Zero Fire Release Date, Console Ports, and Details Revealed for Nintendo Switch and PS4

M2, renowned for its meticulous arcade game adaptations, has officially unveiled new details for its highly anticipated collection, Zero Fire.

The latest entry in the Toaplan Arcade Garage series, Zero Fire brings together a trio of classic Toaplan horizontal shooters — Zero Wing, Hellfire, and Horror Story — for PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch owners.

This captivating compilation reaffirms M2’s dedication to preserving the golden age of arcade gaming while expanding accessibility to modern platforms. The developer has confirmed that Zero Fire is set to launch in Japan on July 20, 2023, for both PS4 and Nintendo Switch.

Along with digital distribution via the eShop and PlayStation Store, a physical edition will be made available, catering to collectors and long-time fans of the franchise.

Revealed by M2, this package not only features the beloved arcade versions but also includes a collection of notable console ports for each game.

As detailed in a recent announcement, the included ports are as follows: - Zero Wing: JP Mega Drive, EU Mega Drive, PC Engine CD - Hellfire: JP Mega Drive, Genesis, PC Engine CD - Horror Story: PC Engine CD Players opting for the digital version can access these console ports as downloadable content (DLC), while the physical edition will provide them as standard features.

This thoughtful approach reflects M2’s ongoing commitment to authenticity and player choice, ensuring classic experiences are retained across multiple hardware generations. Originally released in 1989, Hellfire is remembered for its innovative weapon-cycling mechanic and adaptability through directional firing, having amassed a dedicated following on both Genesis/Mega Drive and PC Engine CD.

Zero Wing, meanwhile, has attained iconic status far beyond arcade circles, owing in part to its memorable "All Your Base" internet meme, rooted in the English localization of its Genesis/Mega Drive port.

Adding further value, the Zero Fire package includes Horror Story (also known as Demon’s World), another PC Engine CD favorite.

A bonus Toaplan title has also been teased, with M2 engaging fans through a community competition to guess the hidden game, continuing a tradition from previous Arcade Garage collections. The key visual artwork for this release comes from acclaimed illustrator Yuji Kaida, whose legendary portfolio includes titling such as Battle Garegga and Daimakamura / Ghouls 'n Ghosts for the Mega Drive.

His involvement highlights M2’s attention to detail and respect for arcade heritage. Zero Fire is poised to become a standout release for Nintendo Switch and PS4 owners, bridging the gap between today’s gaming audience and Toaplan’s historic shoot-’em-up legacy.

As the July 20 release draws near, interest continues to build among genre enthusiasts eager to revisit — or newly discover — these arcade benchmarks via the eShop, physical retail, and PlayStation Store.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch PS4 Toaplan M2 DLC Zero Wing Hellfire Zero Fire Horror Story PC Engine CD Mega Drive Genesis eShop