Nightmarish twin-stick shoot-em-up roguelite NeverAwake FLASHBACK began as DLC for the first NeverAwake game, but it seems as though fan demand pushed Phoenixx and Neotro to make it an entire sequel. It will now be released as a full, standalone sequel for PC before the end of the year. More information will be revealed at Shooters Fes 2025.
In a press release, Hiroshi Sawatari, developer of NeverAwake FLASHBACK, explains the decision: “What we and Neotro kept hearing from fans was that they loved NeverAwake’s world and challenges, but wanted more content and replayability. We hope this is a nightmare NeverAwake fans will never want to wake up from!”
In the game, players fight waves of things that go bump in the night (great show) as Rem sinks back into tormented sleep. Head into procedurally generated arenas with a swappable selection of weapons and abilities — plus the help of Rem’s plushie, Gabe-chan!
The same press release gives a thorough overview of the game.
After escaping the ordeals of NeverAwake, protagonist Rem thought she found peace, but her sweet dreams start to turn dark again. Joined by her plushie Gabe-chan, Rem must once again dive deep into her subconscious and fight literal sleep demons to enjoy peace once more. But now, the nightmares keep changing.
Flying about procedurally-generated arenas, blasting away twisted versions of youthful fears like terrifying dentist tools, broccoli monsters, and aggressive chihuahua ghouls in 360-degree combat. At the start of each run, combine three weapons and three accessories to optimize Rem’s attacks to collect souls to progress and unlock upgrades. Use Gabe-chan’s special abilities to help turn the tide against the apparitions.
Fight through 50 procedurally-generated stages in randomized order, swapping out weapons and abilities as needed. Play through new series of levels each time, or use a simple code to replay a favorite seed of levels. Fight dangerous new bosses, navigate new hazards, in an experience that combines quick pick-up-and-play action while giving NeverAwake veterans new challenges in a familiar environment.
Developed by Neotro Inc and published by Phoenixx, NeverAwake FLASHBACK will be released for PC via Steam in Q3 2025. Its predecessor, NeverAwake, is available for PC via Steam, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Series.
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