Fans of classic shoot-’em-ups can mark August 25, 2026 on their calendars. Publisher ININ Games has announced that Apidya’ Special will launch on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox and Nintendo Switch, with pre-orders now available across all platforms.
Alongside the announcement, ININ Games released a new trailer offering a closer look at the game in action and revealing the physical editions that will accompany the digital release.
Amiga cult classic
Originally released on the Amiga in 1992, Apidya built a dedicated following thanks to its unusual insect-themed setting, challenging gameplay and soundtrack by Chris Hülsbeck. While most shoot-’em-ups of the era relied on spaceships and science fiction themes, Apidya took players through a fantasy world filled with oversized insects, ponds, meadows and biological environments, much like another cult classic, Insector X.
Rebuild for modern hardware
Rather than relying on emulation, Apidya’ Special has been rebuilt from the ground up for modern hardware. Players can switch between a widescreen HD presentation and the original 4:3 aspect ratio, while optional CRT filters and scanline effects aim to recreate the feel of playing on vintage hardware.
One of the more interesting additions is the inclusion of visual assets originally created for an unreleased console version of Apidya. According to ININ Games, these enhanced graphics were never publicly released before.
New cooperative mode
The remake also expands on the original formula with a new cooperative mode. A second player can join the action as a fully playable bee character with its own weapons and abilities. Randomized events have also been introduced, including a “Night Mode” that changes enemy appearances and adds additional variety to repeated playthroughs.
Accessibility options have been expanded as well. Modern difficulty settings are intended to make the game more approachable for newcomers while still preserving the challenge that long-time fans expect.
Physical Editions
Collectors on PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch will have two physical editions to choose from.
The Limited Edition offers a boxed version of the game, while the more extensive Special Edition includes a History Artbook covering the development and legacy of Apidya, alongside a two-CD soundtrack collection.
The soundtrack package features the complete original score, newly produced studio arrangements and the original Amiga recordings that helped establish Apidya’s reputation among shoot-’em-up fans.
A Cult Amiga Shooter Returns
While Apidya never reached the mainstream recognition of arcade genre giants such as R-Type or Gradius, it remains one of the most highly regarded shoot-’em-ups on the Amiga. Its combination of polished presentation, distinctive world design and Chris Hülsbeck’s soundtrack has helped it maintain a loyal fanbase for more than three decades.
Apidya’ Special launches on August 25, 2026 for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox and Nintendo Switch.
