Hollywood Studio Unveils Multiverse VR Shooter
- Heromation has launched its virtual reality debut, "The Phoenix Gene," a narrative on-rails shooter that plunges players into parallel realities on a mission to save humanity.
- Heromation introduced "The Phoenix Gene" during the Ruff Talk VR Gaming showcase on april 4.The game, designed for Meta Quest, allows players to traverse alternate timelines, uncovering the...
- Players assume the role of the Firestorm, a reborn Phoenix guiding Jackie, a young cleaning staff member thrust into a battle for survival after a lab accident.
Heromation’s ‘The Phoenix Gene’ Soars onto Meta Quest with VR Shooter

Heromation has launched its virtual reality debut, “The Phoenix Gene,” a narrative on-rails shooter that plunges players into parallel realities on a mission to save humanity.
VR Debut Unveiled
Heromation introduced “The Phoenix Gene” during the Ruff Talk VR Gaming showcase on april 4.The game, designed for Meta Quest, allows players to traverse alternate timelines, uncovering the secrets of a corporation obsessed with immortality.
Storyline adn Gameplay
Players assume the role of the Firestorm, a reborn Phoenix guiding Jackie, a young cleaning staff member thrust into a battle for survival after a lab accident. Jackie gains powers and must navigate the “Slipstream multiverse,” confronting monstrous mutations resulting from genetic experiments.
The gameplay blends action with strategic elements, drawing inspiration from titles like Pistol Whip, Starfox, and Ikaruga. players control the phoenix through surreal environments, dodging hazards and unleashing fiery attacks.
‘Starfox in VR’
“the phoenix Gene” features physics-based controls,allowing players to direct the phoenix through parallel worlds using both hands. During the Ruff Talk VR Gaming Showcase, Heromation co-founders Michael Cawood and Julie Pifher cawood presented a gameplay trailer and demonstrated the game’s mechanics.
“It’s like Starfox in VR, but this time you can shoot in all directions,” Michael cawood said during the presentation. “We wanted to create something intuitive, strategic, and satisfying, where you’re always thinking with your hands.”
the game forgoes a traditional HUD; instead, the phoenix’s appearance reflects its health and energy. Players can play seated or standing and shoot in all directions, providing tactical flexibility.
VR Book Series Planned
For those seeking deeper immersion, “The Phoenix Gene: Origins of Darkness,” the first in a planned six-part book series, will be accessible in the game before general publication.
Development Team
“The Phoenix Gene” was developed over three years by former developers from franchises like Starfox Adventures, Call of Duty, and Skylanders. Grant Kirkhope (Mario & Rabbids, Goldeneye 007) composed the soundtrack. Heromation was founded by filmmaker Michael Cawood and author Julie Pifher Cawood.The studio’s previous work includes the Oscar-nominated animated film ”The Wrong Rock,” “My Giant Life,” and “Born Behind Bars.”
Connect and Share
What do you think of “the Phoenix Gene?” Share your thoughts on Instagram,Facebook, or Bluesky.
For feedback or suggestions, contact hello@mixed.de or join the Discord server.
The Phoenix Gene: your Ultimate VR Shooter Guide – Q&A
Heromation’s “The Phoenix Gene” has landed on the Meta Quest, promising a thrilling on-rails shooter experience. If you’re curious about this new VR title, look no further. This Q&A guide breaks down everything you need to know, from the gameplay to the story and the creative minds behind it.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is “The phoenix Gene”? | “The Phoenix Gene” is Heromation’s debut VR game, a narrative on-rails shooter designed for the Meta Quest platform. It immerses players in a story of parallel realities and a mission to save humanity. |
| What’s the core gameplay like? | The game combines fast-paced action with strategic elements. Players control the “Firestorm,” a reborn Phoenix, through surreal environments, dodging hazards and unleashing fiery attacks. It draws inspiration from games like *Pistol Whip*,*Starfox*,and *Ikaruga*,offering a dynamic and engaging VR experience. |
| Can you give me a fast rundown of the story? | Players assume the role of the Firestorm, guiding Jackie, a young cleaning staff member, after a lab accident. Jackie gains powers and navigates the “slipstream multiverse,” confronting monstrous mutations born from genetic experiments. The mission is to survive and uncover the secrets of a corporation obsessed with immortality. |
| How does the gameplay work in VR? | The game utilizes physics-based controls,allowing players to direct the Phoenix using both hands. You’ll shoot in all directions (unlike traditional on-rails games), offering tactical flexibility. The game’s HUD is unconventional; the Phoenix’s appearance reflects your health and energy levels, creating even more immersion. |
| It’s described as “Starfox in VR” – how accurate is that? | The comparison is apt. The game’s on-rails shooter structure, combined with the ability to freely direct the Phoenix and engage in combat from multiple angles, resonates with the classic feel of the *Starfox* series while embracing VR’s immersive capabilities.Michael Cawood highlighted this comparison, emphasizing that, “It’s like Starfox in VR, but this time you can shoot in all directions.” |
| Is there a trailer I can watch? |
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| Who developed “The Phoenix Gene”? | The game was developed over three years by a team of experienced developers, including veterans from franchises like *Starfox Adventures*, *Call of Duty*, and *Skylanders*. |
| Who is behind Heromation? | Heromation was founded by filmmaker Michael Cawood and author Julie Pifher Cawood. Their previous work encompasses an Oscar-nominated animated film (“The Wrong Rock”), “My Giant Life”, and ”Born Behind Bars”. |
| Who composed the soundtrack? | The soundtrack was crafted by Grant Kirkhope,known for his work on titles such as *Mario & Rabbids* and *Goldeneye 007*. |
| Are there any other ways to delve deeper into the story? | Yes! For those who wont to delve even deeper into the narrative, “The Phoenix Gene: Origins of Darkness,” the first book in a planned six-part series, will be accessible within the game before its general publication. |
| Where can I connect with the community and learn more? | You can share your thoughts on Instagram, Facebook,or Bluesky. For feedback or suggestions, reach out via email at hello@mixed.de or join the Discord server. |
| Where did the information for this article come from? | This article is based on information from the Meta Horizon Store. |
Ready to take flight in “The phoenix Gene?” This VR shooter promises an action-packed adventure. Keep an eye out for updates and community discussions!
