Spanish developer Mansion Games, in collaboration with Tesura Games, is preparing a physical release of its retro-inspired run and gun platformer, Operation Highjump: The Fall of Berlin, for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 in . The announcement includes a collector’s edition packed with extras for fans of the genre.
Operation Highjump: The Fall of Berlin draws heavily from arcade classics like Metal Slug and Commandos, offering a modern take on the “run and gun” formula. The game features side-scrolling levels, full-screen boss battles and a focus on explosive action, a large number of enemies, and a diverse arsenal of weapons. According to promotional materials, the title is designed to appeal to players who grew up with arcade games.
The game places players in the role of Lieutenant Kawalski, a Polish resistance veteran tasked with a desperate mission in the final days of World War II. The SSO (Strategic Services Office) sends Kawalski on a suicide mission to locate enemy leaders, steal their experimental technology, and recover valuable art, and relics. The narrative, delivered through motion-comic cutscenes, centers around preventing the resurgence of a “dark empire.”
Beyond the core gameplay loop of running, gunning, and tactical missions, Operation Highjump blends genres, incorporating elements of platforming and video adventure. The game boasts nine distinct missions set across varied environments within Berlin, each offering multiple approaches to completion. Players can utilize historically accurate weapons and prototype technology, capture enemy vehicles, and strategically position themselves for victory.
The game features over 50 characters and vehicles, including eight epic final bosses. Visually, Operation Highjump employs a unique aesthetic, combining pixel art, 2D illustrations, 3D graphics, and frame-by-frame animations. Notably, the game’s cover art was created by Alfonso Azpiri, a well-known artist in the gaming world. The soundtrack is composed by Chris Huelsbeck, known for his work on titles like Turrican and The Great Giana Sisters.
The collector’s edition, as showcased in images released by the developers, appears to include a substantial amount of physical merchandise. While specific contents haven’t been detailed beyond the visual presentation, the packaging suggests a premium offering for dedicated fans. Mansion Games describes the game as being “much more than just ‘run and kill.’”
The development team emphasizes a fusion of genres, aiming for an experience that is both action-packed and strategically engaging. The game’s mechanics allow for a variety of playstyles, encouraging replayability and experimentation. The combination of historical settings, fictional elements, and a darkly humorous tone sets Operation Highjump apart from other titles in the run and gun space.
The announcement of physical editions comes after the game’s initial digital release. The move to physical media caters to collectors and players who prefer owning a tangible copy of their games. The choice of Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 as platforms indicates a desire to reach a broad audience, leveraging the popularity of both consoles.
The release of Operation Highjump: The Fall of Berlin in adds to a growing trend of retro-inspired games finding success on modern platforms. The game’s blend of classic gameplay mechanics, unique visual style, and compelling narrative positions it as a noteworthy title for fans of the genre. The physical editions, particularly the collector’s edition, are likely to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
