BioCreeps: New NES Platformer Hits Funding Goal
Another Nintendo Entertainment System game hits Kickstarter, and it's already funded. This isn't just another ROM dump; it's a new physical release, pushing the complete-in-box (CIB) market for homebrew titles. BioCreeps, a sci-fi action arcade platformer, reached its funding target with 18 days still left in the campaign, according to Time Extension.
The game is a collaboration between pixel artist Nate Ehlers and experienced NES programmer Łukasz Kur. Players take on the roles of government mercenaries Rod and Todd in 1992. Their mission is to free Earth from alien "creeps" by infiltrating their base.
Airborne Action on the NES
BioCreeps stands out with its core gameplay mechanic. Players are encouraged to stay airborne, using their shotguns to propel themselves skyward. Ground attacks only stun enemies. The real damage comes from shooting them from above. This is a clear departure from the typical run-and-jump NES platformer design.
The game supports one or two players. It features five distinct zones and 80 levels. Each level promises unique enemies, obstacles, and a boss encounter. The project began as a solo effort by Ehlers for an NESMaker Byte-Off II game jam. It has since grown into a more ambitious title, bringing Kur onto the team.
The Price of New Old Games
The real story here is the pricing tiers. A $65 complete-in-box Nintendo Entertainment System game, even a new one, shows confidence in a market that's always been about scarcity. The Kickstarter offers a digital ROM for $10, a cart-only version for $45, and the CIB edition for $65. This pricing structure reflects a collector base willing to pay a premium for a new, pristine physical product.
Compare that to the challenges of finding vintage CIB games. You're often dealing with label damage, sticker shadow, or manual foxing. A new CIB game bypasses all those condition issues, offering a factory-fresh experience. This changes the value proposition for some collectors, making new releases an attractive, if expensive, option.
What This Means for Your Shelf
David Ehlers, Nate's father, even learned FamiStudio to compose the soundtrack. This kind of dedication is common in the homebrew scene. The game is currently 95% complete. Final beta testing and visual polishing are the remaining tasks. Manufacturing will start once these steps are finished.
The estimated release date for BioCreeps is January 2027. This gives collectors time to clear a spot on their shelves. The success of this Kickstarter shows that the market for new games on classic hardware is strong. It's not just about nostalgia; it's about new experiences in a familiar format.
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Originally published by Time Extension. Read original article.