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A chaotic combination of genres are smashed together in Appulse, which just showed off a new trailer as part of FGS Live From Los Angeles.
On the face of it, Appulse is a pinball game. But if you're picturing a laid-back arcade experience or something like the iconic Windows Space Cadet, think again (even if developer Le Rado says that game was a direct inspiration). Granted, there's a sci-fi twist to Appulse, but this certainly doesn't look relaxing.
That's because alongside the gunmetal grey gameplay environment and the glowing red HUD that make up Appulse's pinball 'table', it's also a top-down shooter and a roguelite game to boot. Instead of just racking up points towards a new high-score, you'll be protecting the mothership from invading robots, taking shots to affect the trajectory of your ball, and choosing upgrades that will alter every run you take - do you want the massive adjustment but slow fire-rate of a Colt, or the more gentle bullet-hose effect of an SMG? Over time, you'll unlock new equipment and powerful perks that will help you defeat the waves of enemies before you.
It's an assault on the senses, but in exactly the way this kind of chaotic mash-up for genres and visual effects should feel. And the best bit is that you shouldn't have to wait too long to try it out for yourself - Appulse is currently set to release some time in 2026, when you'll be able to grab it on PC via Steam.
If you're looking for more excellent games from today's Future Games Show, have a look at our official Steam page.
