Hardcore shooter climbs Steam charts with overwhelmingly positive reviews

In 2020, Japanese studio Doekuramori released The Citadel (available on Steam for $14.99), a hardcore shooter with anime-inspired 2.5D retro graphics. Players took on the role of defenders of the Citadel, a mechanical fortress and humanity’s last line of defense against an apocalyptic threat. The game was well-received, earning a "very positive" rating on Steam with 94% approval from around 1,200 reviews. On January 2, 2025, the sequel Beyond Citadel was released and early feedback indicates it is just as successful.

Beyond Citadel continues the story of its predecessor. The Citadel has fallen, leaving humanity on the brink of extinction. A mysterious signal from the ruins of the fortress offers a glimmer of hope or perhaps a new danger. Players, acting as martyrs sent by seven angels, embark on a perilous mission to investigate the signal. Along the way, they must confront the "trumpeters of the apocalypse," powerful foes bent on bringing about the end of the world. The ultimate goal is to defeat these enemies, uncover the signal’s true meaning and save humanity from its demise.

The sequel builds on the original’s gameplay with a focus on realism. Weapons can jam or break, requiring players to think strategically. The arsenal ranges from black powder firearms to futuristic energy weapons, each with unique handling. While retaining its retro-inspired design, the game incorporates updated visual effects for a more modern feel. Improved AI and reworked mechanics make enemies smarter and more challenging than before.

Very positive reviews and currently available at an introductory price

One day after its release, Beyond Citadel has already garnered over 90 reviews on Steam, 98% of which are positive. The game currently tops the "New & Trending" category. Normally priced at $14.89, Beyond Citadel is available at a 10% launch discount until January 16, reducing the price to $13.49. For those new to the series, the Citadel Bundle offers both games at a discounted price of $25.63, down from the regular $26.98.