Psyvariar 3 launches March 19, 2026

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The shoot ’em up game Psyvariar 3 will be available digitally on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Switch 2, Switch, and PC (via Steam) worldwide on March 19, 2026. This was announced by publishers SUCCESS Corporation and Red Art Games, along with developers Red Art Studios and Banana Bytes.

A physical copy of the game will be released for PlayStation 5 in Europe. You’ll be able to find the standard edition at most retailers, but the Deluxe Edition will only be available from the Red Art Games online store. The Deluxe Edition comes with special packaging – an exclusive sleeve with different artwork – and a set of magnets.

The game will be available in physical copies for PlayStation 5, the new Switch 2, and the original Switch in Japan. The standard version costs 6,380 yen on PlayStation 5 and Switch 2, while the limited edition is 11,880 yen. For the standard Switch version, the price is 5,280 yen, and the limited edition costs 10,780 yen. The limited edition includes a set of pins and a CD with the game’s soundtrack.

Here is an overview of the game, via Red Art Games:

About

Many years after the events of Psyvariar 2, Psyvariar 3 begins. Following the defeat of ETA, a group of Psyvariars decided Earth was worth saving. They committed to retaking and rebuilding the planet, with GUIS emerging to continue its original purpose.

Decades pass. The Earth colony thrives. Then… a signal. Alien. Unknown.

As soon as Gluon particles appear, a wave of fear sweeps across the world. The skies grow dark, signaling a terrifying return – Earth is under attack again. It’s time for a new group of skilled pilots, the Psyvariars, to emerge and protect humanity.

Key Features

  • Seven playable characters with unique shot types, buzz and bomb mechanics, and scoring systems.
  • Guest character Cotton from the Cotton series is fully playable with her own ship and abilities.
  • Refined Buzz system that rewards skillful bullet grazing with score boosts and shield chains.
  • Signature roll mechanic updated for modern controllers all the while preserving the original arcade “wiggle” input for extra advantage and fluid movement.
  • Neutrino and shield system that give access to shields, speed boosts, and enhanced weapons by buzzing and shooting.
  • Strategic bomb variations that include short and long types with varying effects depending on the character in use.
  • Multiple game modes: Arcade, Arrange, Mission (49 short challenges), Caravan, Endless, and Practice.
  • Dynamic difficulty selection that unlocks harder routes and exclusive boss encounters based on performance.
  • Seven distinct areas and bosses with varied attack patterns depending on the difficulty.
  • Arcade-perfect intensity that preserves the intense, high risk / high reward action the series is known for.
  • Neo-retro 3D aesthetics inspired by early Psyvariar games.

More About Psyvariar

The Psyvariar series began in 2000 with the arcade game Psyvariar: Medium Unit and has become well-known over time. Psyvariar 3 is the long-awaited new installment in this popular vertical shooting game series.

Created by fans of the shoot ’em up genre, Psyvariar 3 is a collaborative effort between Banana Bytes (Sophstar), Red Art Games, and Red Art Studios, and is officially licensed by SUCCESS Corporation. The game expands on the series’ famous “buzz” system, adding new characters, improved controls, and diverse game modes. Featuring seven unique pilots – each with their own special skills and scoring – Psyvariar 3 stays true to the classic arcade experience while making it more enjoyable and accessible for modern players.

View a new set of screenshots at the gallery.

Screenshots

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2025-11-04 19:02