News: Shantae: Half-Genie Hero Bound for Retail

Shantae: Half-Genie Hero, from WayForward, was originally expected sometime last year following a successful Kickstarter campaign, but development continues. But those who are eagerly anticipating the game have something to look forward to (WayForward to, heh)... The PS4, Vita, and Wii U versions of the game will also be released in a physical format, courtesy of publisher XSEED Games, which will retail for $29.99. As a bonus, a 20-song soundtrack entitled "Risky Beats" will be included along with the game in CD format.

Shantae: Half-Genie Hero is the first game in the series that is not originating on a handheld. The game follows the original Shantae on Game Boy Color, Shantae: Risky's Revenge, and Shantae and the Pirate's Curse. The newest release will retain the core mechanics of those previous, with Shantae whipping her hair to kill enemies, exploring colorful platforming worlds, and doing the occasional bit of belly dancing. Shantae will use magical transformations to explore the land and even return to previous areas to access new paths, metroidvania style. Like the studio's own DuckTales Remastered this game features 2D characters and enemies with 3D objects and environments. Check our full preview here.

In addition to the physical releases, the game is also planned to hit PS3, PS4, and Vita via PSN, Xbox 360 and Xbox One via XBLA, Wii U via eShop, PC via Steam, along with physical releases for PS4, Vita, and Wii U in September.