Ion Fury: Aftershock – October 16th

Ion Fury: Aftershock is coming to Xbox on 16th October for $14.99/€14.99. This expansion to the Build Engine shooter earned a 94% very positive rating on Steam following its October 2023 PC release, and now receives console-optimised controls for gamepad integration.

Console-Specific Optimisations

The console versions feature enhanced controller support for precise aiming, redesigned UI optimised for television displays, and streamlined navigation tailored specifically for gamepad input. Nintendo Switch delivers 720p@60fps in handheld mode and 1080p@60fps when docked, with additional battery life optimisations for portable play.

The high-speed vehicle combat receives particular attention for console controllers, featuring refined handling mechanics and enhanced visual feedback to ensure smooth hoverbike gameplay across all platforms. These adjustments suggest developers understand the translation challenges between keyboard/mouse precision and analogue stick control.

Substantial Content Expansion

Aftershock continues immediately after defeating Dr. Jadus Heskel, as protagonist Shelly “Bombshell” Harrison pursues her escaping nemesis through thirteen new levels across five distinct zones. The expansion introduces new enemy types and weapons including the Cluster Shot launcher whilst maintaining the signature Loverboy revolver and weaponised Roadripper hoverbike.

Arrange Mode provides additional value by remixing the original Ion Fury campaign with mirrored levels, modified enemy placements, and integrated Aftershock content throughout. This substantial addition essentially doubles the available content for players seeking extended engagement.

Build Engine Heritage

Rendered in the legendary Build Engine that powered Duke Nukem 3D and Shadow Warrior, Aftershock maintains authentic 1990s aesthetics whilst incorporating advanced lighting effects and seamless vehicle integration. Console optimisation ensures stable performance across varying hardware capabilities, from Switch’s mobile architecture to backwards compatibility on current-generation systems.

The Build Engine’s continued relevance demonstrates lasting appeal for retro-style first-person shooters that prioritise level design complexity and exploration over photorealistic graphics.

Pricing and Platform Availability

At $14.99/€14.99, Aftershock positions itself as mid-tier expansion content rather than budget offering, reflecting the substantial level count and campaign remix features. The backwards compatibility support extends the potential audience to current-generation console owners without requiring separate purchases.

The October 16th launch provides console players access to content PC audiences have enjoyed since October 2023, with gamepad optimisations potentially offering more comfortable control schemes than keyboard/mouse for players preferring analogue input.