Xeno Crisis

Xeno Crisis
DeveloperBitmap Bureau
PublisherBitmap Bureau
DirectorsMatthew Cope
Mike Tucker
ProgrammersMatthew Cope
Mike Tucker
ArtistsHenk Nieborg
Catherine Menabde
ComposerDaniel Bärlin
PlatformsSega Mega Drive/Genesis, Linux, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Dreamcast, PlayStation Vita, Neo Geo, Neo Geo CD, Nintendo 64, GameCube, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Game Boy Advance, PlayStation
Release
October 28, 2019
  • Mega Drive/Genesis, PC
    • WW: October 28, 2019
    NS, PS4
    • WW: October 28, 2019
    • JP: September 17, 2020
    Xbox One
    • WW: October 30, 2019
    Dreamcast
    • WW: June 16, 2020
    PS Vita
    • JP: September 17, 2020
    • NA: September 22, 2020
    Neo Geo, Neo Geo CD
    • WW: October 2021
    N64, GameCube
    • WW: April 2023
    SNES
    • WW: April 2024
    GBA
    • WW: November 8, 2024
    PlayStation
    • WW: TBA
GenreMultidirectional shooter
ModesSingle-player, multiplayer

Xeno Crisis is a 2019 multidirectional shooter homebrew video game developed and published by Bitmap Bureau for the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, Linux, macOS, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. It was later ported to Dreamcast, PlayStation Vita, Neo Geo, Neo Geo CD, Nintendo 64, GameCube, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and Game Boy Advance. The premise takes place in Outpost 88, a scientific research facility overrun by aliens. The facility sent a distress signal, leading Commander Darius dispatching space marines John Marsh and Sarah Ridley to confront the aliens. Gameplay revolves around players defeating enemies, rescuing survivors, collecting in-game currency for upgrades, and facing against bosses.

Critical reception for Xeno Crisis has varied depending on the version; the Mega Drive/Genesis release garnered generally favorable reviews, while the Switch port received average reviews. Praise was given to its graphical presentation, soundtrack, arcade-style gameplay, controls, and cooperative multiplayer, but some reviewers felt mixed regarding the bosses and certain design decisions. Criticism was geared towards its difficulty, short length, and issues when playing with the Mega Drive's three-button controller.