SovietBorgs: A Retro Run 'n' Gun Revolution Hits Sega Dreamcast with Indiegogo Campaign

June 25, 2025 – Retro Sumus, the acclaimed Spanish indie studio behind the 2021 Dreamcast hit Xenocider, has launched an Indiegogo campaign today for their latest project, SovietBorgs, a top-down run 'n' gun shooter that promises to deliver a thrilling blend of retro aesthetics and modern gameplay enhancements for the Sega Dreamcast, Mega Drive/Genesis, Neo Geo, and MS-DOS. This ambitious multi-platform release channels the spirit of classics like The Chaos Engine and Gauntlet, wrapped in a unique alternate-history narrative where the Soviets dominate a post-apocalyptic world. With a free demo already available and a passionate team driving the project, SovietBorgs is shaping up to be a must-have for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Gameplay Style: A Retro-Fueled Adrenaline Rush

SovietBorgs is a top-down, action-packed shooter that immerses players in a dystopian 2014, where the KGB’s self-aware supercomputer, Tovarishch-Prime, has reshaped the world after a devastating nuclear strike on the West. Players take on the role of cybernetic operatives tasked with quelling pockets of resistance in a visually striking, pre-rendered world reminiscent of Donkey Kong Country and Vectorman. The gameplay is fast-paced and unforgiving, blending tight controls with chaotic, enemy-filled arenas that demand quick reflexes and strategic thinking.

The Dreamcast version, in particular, stands out with promised enhancements that leverage the console’s capabilities. Expect twin-stick compatibility for precise aiming and movement, a feature that feels tailor-made for the Dreamcast’s analog sticks. The game will also boast a vibrant color palette free from the Mega Drive’s limitations, fully arranged music with an option to toggle chiptune tracks, and additional voice samples—featuring the talents of Dreamcast YouTube personality Adam Koralik, who lends his voice to all characters and enemies, complete with a playful faux-Russian accent. These additions promise to elevate the experience, making the Dreamcast port a standout in the game’s multi-platform lineup.

Gameplay draws heavily from retro inspirations, offering a cooperative multiplayer mode that echoes the camaraderie of Gauntlet while introducing modern flourishes like achievements and potentially exclusive game modes for the Dreamcast. Early demos of the Mega Drive version have already impressed, with smooth mechanics and a satisfying balance of challenge and accessibility. The Dreamcast’s enhancements are poised to take this foundation further, delivering a polished experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Why SovietBorgs Looks Awesome

SovietBorgs is a love letter to retro gaming, crafted by a team with a proven track record. Retro Sumus, led by coder Daniel Lancha, designer Abel del Dedo, and PR/marketing specialist Manu Segura, has a knack for capturing the essence of Sega’s golden era while pushing the boundaries of indie development. Their previous title, Xenocider, was celebrated for its bold 3D visuals and tight gameplay, and SovietBorgs pivots to a 2D aesthetic that still leverages 3D-rendered assets for a distinctive, retro-futuristic look. The game’s cover art by Agustín Padilla (Green Arrow, Transformers) and 16-bit soundtrack by Juanjo Martín add a layer of polish that elevates it beyond typical indie fare.

The narrative, dripping with Cold War satire, sets SovietBorgs apart. The concept of a sentient KGB supercomputer ruling a nuclear wasteland is both darkly humorous and compelling, offering a backdrop that’s as engaging as the gameplay itself. The Indiegogo campaign, live as of June 25, 2025, offers backers a chance to secure standard and limited-edition PAL Dreamcast cases, alongside a re-release of Xenocider with new artwork—a treat for collectors. Priced competitively, with standard editions around €45, the game is positioned as an accessible entry for Dreamcast fans.

Early impressions from outlets like The Dreamcast Junkyard and The Sega Guru praised the alpha build’s tight controls and vibrant visuals, with the Dreamcast version’s enhancements generating particular excitement. The inclusion of twin-stick controls and improved audio underscores mong others, signals Retro Sumus’ commitment to delivering a premium experience tailored to Sega’s iconic console.

Support the Revolution, and keep the Dreamcast Alive!

The Indiegogo campaign for SovietBorgs is a call to arms for retro gaming fans. With a free demo available on the campaign page, players can experience the game’s potential firsthand. The campaign also offers exclusive perks, including limited-edition physical copies and the chance to support a passionate indie team dedicated to keeping the Dreamcast’s legacy alive. As The Dreamcast Junkyard noted, “Sovietborgs will be another worthy addition to the Dreamcast’s bursting indie catalogue,” and the community’s enthusiasm is palpable, with the project unanimously voted as the most anticipated indie release in their 2024 poll!

As far as the Dreamcast community supporting this awesomenss, Adam Koralik did the voice acting for EVERY CHARACTER IN THE GAME! Simply to support them, he expresses in this tweet: “I voiced every character in this game. Let's put our money where our mouth is & support a true physical edition game. #Dreamcast, #NEOGEO, #SegaGenesis, & even #MSDOS versions. All proceeds go to game development, I do not receive anything. I voiced this just to help these guys.” Adam Koralik is the GOAT as far as Dreamcast OG’s go, so thats QUITE the endorsement!

Head to the Indiegogo campaign page to pledge your support and join the fight to “pacify the West” in this thrilling retro revival. With Retro Sumus’ track record and the promise of a polished, Dreamcast-optimized experience, SovietBorgs is poised to be a standout title in the thriving indie scene. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this cybernetic revolution.