Beyond The Pixels announces Astro Burn, launching its retro gaming debut
London-based game studio Beyond The Pixels® has unveiled its debut title, Astro Burn, a modern retro-inspired shoot-’em-up slated for release in early 2026. Known for its commitment to reinventing the retro gaming experience for today’s generation, the studio is led by HaZ Dulull, a seasoned Film, TV, and Games Cinematics Director with an extensive portfolio that includes projects for Netflix®, Disney+™, Fortnite™, and Dune: Awakening™.
Dulull’s cross-industry expertise is central to the studio’s approach of creating gaming experiences that can expand into other media, such as film, television, and user-generated content. This vision is already taking shape, as an animated TV series adaptation for Astro Burn is currently in development, following an earlier announcement in Deadline™.
A Retro Revival With a Modern Flair
Astro Burn is a fast-paced, side-scrolling shooter that draws inspiration from the pixel art and gameplay dynamics of the 16-bit era but re-engineers them for modern audiences. The game will roll out on PC, Mac, mobile, and consoles, offering players a vibrant adventure packed with adrenaline-fueled action.
The story follows Astro, a fearless feline space pilot, and her robot companion AL. Upon returning from a deep-space mission, the duo finds Earth surrounded by massive A.I. war machines and humanity nowhere to be found. Players will step into Astro’s paws to uncover the mystery, battle relentless waves of mechanical enemies, and fight to uncover the cause of Earth’s catastrophic demise.
Features Designed for Fun and Replayability
Astro Burn promises a high-energy experience divided across ten visually diverse levels, ranging from deep space and urban landscapes to underwater worlds. With tight controls, roguelite challenges, and a "stack-em-up" weapons system, the game aims to balance accessibility with mastery. Players can also unlock achievements, replay levels, and pursue leaderboard dominance through speed runs.
Other key features include:
- Two-player co-op arcade mode, offering both collaborative and competitive gameplay.
- "Catnip Mode", a bullet-time powerup for intense action sequences.
- A "banging synth-wave retro cool soundtrack" by Venice Bleach to accompany the gameplay.
In addition to its nostalgic charm, Astro Burn integrates sci-fi lore and character-driven moments. Astro, described as a "sassy, feline badass", is paired with her logical robot companion AL, creating opportunities for humor and engaging dialogue throughout the game.
A Vision Rooted in Retro Gaming
HaZ Dulull, the creator of Astro Burn, shared his excitement about the announcement. "I’m grinning like a Cheshire cat today, as we finally go live with the downloadable demo for Astro Burn, the first official title from Beyond The Pixels®", he said. "I want players to walk away from my games with a sense of fun and wonder, the same feeling I had as a teenager spending hours at the arcades."
With a focus on accessibility and shorter gameplay experiences, Dulull explained his motivation for designing the game. "These days, so many games demand 60+ hours of commitment or lock you into subscriptions, but back then it was simple - you could just pick up a game, play, and have fun without it being so time-consuming or overwhelming."
Physical editions will also play a role in the studio’s offerings. "I’m developing Astro Burn to bring back the spirit of gaming’s golden age and it’s also why I’m planning to release physical editions of our titles - because there’s something special about holding a game in your hands, just like the old days", Dulull added.
What Lies Ahead for Beyond The Pixels
With its combination of modernized retro gameplay and transmedia storytelling, Astro Burn sets the stage for Beyond The Pixels® as a creative force in the gaming industry. The game’s full release is expected in early 2026, with further details about the accompanying animated TV series to come. For now, fans can dive into the demo, get a taste of Astro’s interstellar adventure, and start preparing for what looks to be a thrilling addition to the retro gaming revival.