Caladrius is back after 13 years and our ageing shmup reflexes are already terrified

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Thirteen years after Moss released the saucy, slightly adult, original gothic bullet-hell shooter, Caladrius 2/Dark Element has been announced for PS5, Nintendo Switch, and PC, with a worldwide release currently planned for winter 2026. Caladrius 2/Dark Element brings back Shame BreakCaladrius 2/Dark Element introduces a new cast of characters and once again takes place in a dark gothic world, with new illustrators handling its character designs. It’s a surprisingly good time to love shmupsPerhaps the nicest thing about Caladrius returning is that it arrives during something of a resurgence for the genre. Caladrius was one of the more memorable shooters of its era, and Moss returning to it after 13 years genuinely wasn’t something I expected to see. Caladrius 2/Dark Element will launch worldwide for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam in winter 2026.