Next Jump slows down the normally-frantic gameplay of shmups, having players dodge shots while blasting enemies in turn-based, strategic grid gameplay.
Elves, dwarves, orcs, and humans have banded together when dragons stole their alcohol, taking to the stars to get their drinks back. To do so, they’ll have to maneuver through the array of ships and shots blocking their paths.
Doing so will require thought and planning more than quick reflexes. All of Next Jump’s combat is carried out on grids, and the player must position their ships and fire back with care to solve the puzzle-like groupings of enemy fighters and weapons. Each of these dogfights is procedurally generated, providing several unexpected challenges each time.
Each of the player’s ships can be given several different upgrades and pieces of equipment that alter how they behave.
The Jeanne d’Arc/Final Fantasy Tactics-inspired shmup is set to release in March 2017.