Publisher 3D Realms teams up with developer Slipgate Ironworks to unveil Phantom Fury, a retro-action sequel in the Ion Fury universe. This project is not being handled by Voidpoint, the studio still focused on the Ion Fury: Aftershock expansion. The shift in development responsibilities signals a fresh direction for fans expecting more fast-paced, old-school shooter action with modern polish.
The narrative continues the story of Shelley Bombshell Harrison. After the events of the original game, she spends years in a coma. She is eventually awakened and given a critical mission: locate the Demon Core, a highly dangerous artifact with the potential to unleash catastrophic power. The setup places Shelley back at the center of a brutal, neon-drenched world where danger lurks around every corner and every decision carries weight.
The new installment introduces a bionic arm for the heroine, which can be enhanced or “pumped” to unlock new combat options. With this upgraded limb, Shelley can extend a shield for defense or hurl enemies away, creating a dynamic combat rhythm that blends tight gunplay with strategic use of technology. The trailer suggests a wide range of weaponry will be available to players, expanding the arsenal beyond what fans saw in the original game. The presence of vehicles hinted at in the footage also points to varied traversal and combat scenarios, potentially changing the pace of encounters and adding another layer to the overall gameplay loop.
Phantom Fury is slated for release in 2023 across PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch. A project page has already appeared on Steam, signaling early accessibility for PC players and a broader launch window for console owners. As the release date nears, anticipation builds for how the game will balance retro sensibilities with modern design standards, including refined AI, level design, and performance across platforms. The broader Ion Fury universe continues to expand, inviting longtime fans and newcomers alike to explore a world of frenetic action and imaginative set pieces. In light of the evolving development landscape, players can expect a title that respects the classic feel while embracing contemporary gameplay innovations.
Source: VG Times