Smashteroids is a new retro-inspired shooter from developer Switchback, releasing on Steam in January 2027. While we wait for the full game, the developer has invited us to try out Smashteroids through the new demo currently available to download. Switchback has described the game as a “neon arcade roguelite shooter” which blends traditional arcade blasting with modern elements to build a loadout during a single run.
The game starts with the choice of a ship; there are over 20 to pick from, although most will need to be unlocked by playing the game. We started with the basic ‘vanilla’ ship and had a nostalgic feeling when the little wireframe ship loaded onto the screen of the first level. Smashteroids is certainly influenced by Asteroids, firstly by how it controls, and secondly, just how gorgeously retro the presentation of the enemey crafts and bullets are.
You use the left analogue stick to move your ship around and aim the autofiring cannon with the right. Our ship also had a little boost that warped us a short way across the screen and was helpful in getting away from a crowd of enemies. The waves just kept coming, and each level has a countdown timer that you need to survive. Survive the round, and Smasheteroids rewards you with a little shop where you can buy hundreds of upgrades and buffs to improve your character. The amount of selection is admirable, and as with other modern roguelike games, each card you purchase has positive and some kind of negative.
We eventually got to the first boss battle after a few rounds and had a tough time taking down the huge monster. It was fun though, and put us in good stead to attack the next set of levels, or in Smashteroid‘s case, the next planet. Smashteroids is a fun blaster that is challenging and filled with options to make each run completely different. We loved our time playing the demo and will look forward to reviewing the full game when it releases.
