Quick answer

Astrodogs on Switch is a twin-stick shooter where you control a crew of bounty hunters. This guide covers the basic controls, key gameplay tips, and the available modes to help you get started.

Understanding the story and your crew

Astrodogs puts you in control of a crew of freelance bounty hunters. The story begins when WOOFER, a giant corporation providing services across the Galaxy, goes rogue and attacks planets. Your job is to stop them.

The game does not specify exact crew abilities or ship upgrades in the available catalog information. This means you should experiment with different playstyles as you progress.

Step-by-step: How to play Astrodogs on Switch

  1. 1. Master the twin-stick controls: Use the left stick to move your ship and the right stick to aim and fire. The right trigger or bumper typically fires your primary weapon. Experiment with button mapping in the options menu if the default layout feels off. A common mistake is ignoring the right stick for aiming. Keep your crosshair moving to track enemies.
  2. 2. Learn enemy attack patterns: Each enemy type has a distinct movement and firing pattern. Observe before engaging. Some enemies telegraph their shots with a flash or sound cue. Use the environment or your ship's speed to dodge. Rushing into groups of enemies without learning their patterns often leads to quick deaths. Take a moment to watch.
  3. 3. Manage your resources: Keep an eye on your health bar and any special weapon charges. The game does not explain resource management in detail, so pick up health drops and power-ups whenever you see them. Don't hoard special weapons—use them when you are surrounded or against tougher foes. A common mistake is saving special weapons for the boss and dying before you reach it. Use them to survive the level.
  4. 4. Understand the available modes: Astrodogs offers multiple modes, though the catalog does not list them. Look for a story mode for the campaign, and possibly an arcade or endless mode for score chasing. Start with story mode to learn the mechanics before tackling higher difficulties. If you jump into a harder mode first, you may miss the gradual difficulty curve that story mode provides.
  5. 5. Practice dodging and positioning: Your ship is fast, but enemy bullets are plentiful. Focus on staying near the bottom of the screen so you have more reaction time. Use short, controlled movements rather than holding the stick in one direction. A common mistake is staying still or moving erratically. Predictable movement makes you an easy target.

Product details

  • Astrodogs (Switch): Astrodogs is region-free and an open pre-order for a limited time. Pre-orders close on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. You can play the game on any Switch console regardless of region, but you must place your order before the deadline to secure a copy.

    Astrodogs (Switch)

    Astrodogs (Switch)