Deal | New action-shooter game with Metal Slug vibes launches on Steam with a 10% discount and solid reviews
If you ever wondered what a mashup of Metal Slug, a 2010s anime DVD, and modern gacha-game UI might look like, Nitro Express is your answer. The game just launched on Steam on May 19 and is currently available at a 10% introductory discount for $11.69 until June 1.
The game has been developed by Grayfax Software and published by Playism. Nitro Express is a 2D side-scrolling action shooter that drops you into chaotic street battles across a pixelated version of Tokyo. You’ll take control of hyper-stylized anime girls armed to the teeth with SMGs, flamethrowers, EMPs, drones, and radio-guided explosives, all while fighting rogue vehicles, helicopters, and who-knows-what-else.
The visual style is bright, saturated, and busy in a way that’s deliberately over the top. There's a Trigger-like flair to everything - from the character designs to the bullet-counting chaos of combat. Enemies explode around you, tanks are a frequent occurrence, and the game piles on power-ups, gadgets, and oddly charming weapon unlock menus.
Reviews so far are mostly positive (77%), but it's a bit of a split camp. Players are fans of the aesthetic and weapon variety but calling out the 30 FPS cap, clunky controls, and noticeable input lag during high-intensity moments. Some users mention that it's fun in short bursts, especially with a gamepad, while others find it too janky to enjoy for longer sessions.
That said, Nitro Express has a clear audience. It’s not a polished triple-A shooter. It’s messy, fast, and a little weird. The devs have also added some thoughtful mechanics, like the ability to hold grenades infinitely and swap between various gadget types on the fly. Even the game’s dialogue is fully skippable via "radio comms," making repeat playthroughs faster and cleaner.
At just 500 MB in size and with minimal system requirements (GTX 660 and 4GB RAM), it’s an easy install if you’re looking for a low-stakes shooter with high-energy pixel charm. It doesn't really matter if you're here for the anime appeal, the gadgets, or just to scratch that Metal Slug itch, this one might be worth a shot - especially during launch week.
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