M2’s Tokihiro NAITO and Skipmore announce pixel art ‘puzzle adventure shooter’ XeGrader plus for PC

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Tokihiro Naito, a game designer and director at M2, has revealed his new game, XeGrader plus. It’s a unique blend of puzzle, adventure, and shooting elements, featuring pixel art created by Skipmore, and will be released on PC through Steam. Players can try out a demo version in June.

Here is an overview of the game, via its Steam page:

About

Explore a beautifully detailed pixel art world in this fantasy shooter! Success depends on finding secrets, solving puzzles, and skillful shooting. Gather powerful upgrades, battle fantastic creatures, and ultimately decide the world’s destiny.

“Discovery” Through “Adventure“: Save the World!

This game combines the fast-paced action of old-school shooters with challenging puzzles and a compelling mystery. You’ll need more than just shooting skills to restore peace – you must use your intelligence and bravery to uncover the secrets of a forgotten world.

World: A High Fantasy Shrouded in Darkness

The game is set in a fantasy world that’s been invaded by hordes of monsters – everything from common creatures like slimes and kobolds to terrifying undead like zombies and vampires. Players begin by choosing to play as either a male or female warrior – both characters have the same abilities – and then set out on a dangerous quest to save the world.

Features: A Growth System Powered by Mystery

You can grow stronger by uncovering secrets on each level. Completing all the puzzles will unlock incredible power! We’ve packed every stage with that same exciting feeling you get from discovering hidden bonuses in classic games – that rush of surprise and discovery. Pay attention to your surroundings, try different things, and enjoy finding powerful upgrades yourself.

Visuals and Sound: Retro x Modern

  • Golden Age of Pixel Art – Exquisite pixel art by Skipmore, reminiscent of the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.
  • Atmospheric Effects – Modern lighting and shadow effects add depth to the nostalgic adventure world.
  • Superb Sound – Dramatic music by Tadahiro Nitta colors your journey. Chiptunes and melodies leveraging the texture of FM synthesis will heighten the excitement of your adventure.

Downloadable Content: Recreating Retro Modes that Pushed Hardware to the Limit

We’ve brought the classic XeGrader experience to Steam in two versions: the PC-8001mkII (2024) and the MSX2 (2025). We carefully recreated the original graphics and sound for each machine, staying true to their limitations and unique qualities. Experience the distinctive look and feel of each platform!

  • MSX2 – Released as a physical package in 2025. Experience a detailed world drawn with a unique color palette. The sound is equivalent to PSG.
  • ORIGIN (PC-8001mkII) – Distributed in 2024 through a reward system. You can vaguely experience music performance with only 4 colors and the pseudo-pulse vibration of the BEEP speaker.

Steam Deck Verified

This game works great with the Steam Deck! It’s designed with touch controls for easy name entry and a user-friendly interface, making it comfortable to play on the go or at home. Immerse yourself in a beautifully detailed pixel art world and enjoy this captivating puzzle adventure wherever you are.

Development Team

  • Planning and Production: Toshihiro Naito (the Hydlide series, etc.)
  • Pixel Art: Skipmore (Kamiko, Fairune, etc.)
  • Sound: Tadahiro Nitta (Xak, Illusion City, etc.)

Watch a trailer below.

Steam Trailer

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2026-02-01 21:31