FZ: Formation Z Mech Shooter Launches Today on PC and Consoles

The mecha shooter FZ: Formation Z launched via digital download for PC and consoles on May 21, 2026. The title, a modern revival of a 1980s arcade classic from developer Jeleco, is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and the Nintendo Switch 2, as well as on PC through the Epic Game Store, and Steam.

Published by Clear River Games in partnership with City Connection, the game updates the original arcade experience with modernized graphics and a new soundtrack composed by Daisuke Matsumoto. The release focuses on preserving the intuitive controls and core gameplay of the original while introducing new weaponry, dynamic actions, and updated visual effects.

Transforming Gameplay Mechanics

The central feature of FZ: Formation Z is the ability to control a transforming mech named Ixpel. This mechanic allows players to switch between two distinct forms in real-time, provided they have sufficient energy to sustain the transformation.

In robot form, Ixpel is optimized for land-based combat, enabling players to utilize precision shots and melee attacks to defeat enemies. When players switch to the jet fighter form, the mech is capable of conquering the air and traversing the battlefield at overwhelming speeds.

Unique Transforming Gameplay: Rule the Land and conquer the Air!

Clear River Games

The game consists of five vast missions designed to allow players to carve their own paths to victory while managing the energy requirements of the transformation system.

Physical Release and Pricing

While the digital version became available on May 21, 2026, physical editions of the game are scheduled for release on June 9, 2026. These physical versions will be available for the PlayStation 5 and the Nintendo Switch 2.

The pricing for the physical releases is as follows:

• PlayStation 5: MSRP of $39.99 / €34.99
• Nintendo Switch 2: MSRP of $49.99 / €44.99

The revival of the title marks a return for Jeleco’s signature mecha concept, which first gained popularity in the 1980s. By partnering with Clear River Games, a publisher specializing in retro and classic games, the project aims to bring the incredible new vision of a classic to a modern audience across current-generation hardware.