Quick Answer

If you want a modern twin-stick take on a legendary series, go with Raiden NOVA; if you crave a faithful Saturn-era bullet hell, choose BATSUGUN Saturn Tribute Boosted.

Gameplay: Twin-Stick vs. Classic Bullet Hell

Raiden NOVA reimagines the iconic vertical shooter as a twin-stick 2D shooter, letting you aim freely in any direction while dodging bullets. This modern control scheme offers a fresh challenge even for veterans of the original Raiden games.

BATSUGUN Saturn Tribute Boosted stays true to the aggressive bullet barrage style of classic shoot-em-ups. You level up by defeating enemies, gaining experience to become stronger, and unleash storms of shots and bombers to clear the screen. It's a pure test of reflexes and pattern recognition.

Platform and Pre-Order Windows

Both games are region-free, so you can play them on any Switch or PlayStation console regardless of region. However, they are open pre-orders for a limited time only, and the windows differ.

Raiden NOVA is available for Switch and PS5, with pre-orders closing on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. BATSUGUN Saturn Tribute Boosted is available for Switch and PS4, with pre-orders closing on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Mark your calendar so you don't miss out.

Trade-Offs at a Glance

  • Control Scheme: Raiden NOVA uses twin-stick aiming for 360-degree shooting; BATSUGUN uses classic single-stick movement with auto-fire and bombs.
  • Difficulty Curve: BATSUGUN is a bullet hell that demands pattern memorization; Raiden NOVA offers a more accessible entry point with modern controls. If you're new to shmups, start with Raiden NOVA; if you want a hardcore challenge, pick BATSUGUN.
  • Pre-Order Deadline: Raiden NOVA closes March 2, 2025; BATSUGUN closes May 4, 2025. Both are limited-time open pre-orders. Set a reminder for the earlier deadline if you're leaning toward Raiden NOVA.

Product Facts

  • BATSUGUN Saturn Tribute Boosted Deluxe Edition (Switch, PS4): BATSUGUN Saturn Tribute Boosted is a region-free open pre-order for a limited time, closing May 4, 2025. You can play it on any Switch or PS4, but you must order before the deadline to secure a copy.

    BATSUGUN Saturn Tribute Boosted Deluxe Edition (Switch, PS4)

    BATSUGUN Saturn Tribute Boosted Deluxe Edition (Switch, PS4)

  • Raiden NOVA Standard Edition (Switch, PS5): Raiden NOVA is a region-free open pre-order for a limited time, closing March 2, 2025. It's available for Switch and PS5, so you can enjoy the twin-stick shooter on modern hardware, but the window is shorter.

    Raiden NOVA Standard Edition (Switch, PS5)

    Raiden NOVA Standard Edition (Switch, PS5)

Which One Fits You?

Best for

  • Fans of modern twin-stick shooters who want a fresh take on the Raiden series
  • Players who prefer a more accessible entry point into shoot-em-ups

Not for

  • Purists seeking a faithful bullet hell experience should choose BATSUGUN instead
  • PS4-only owners should note Raiden NOVA is only on Switch and PS5