The retro action gem Scurge: Hive is back, bringing its isometric, Metroid-inspired chaos to Nintendo Switch on October 10.

Scurge: Hive infects the eShop soon

If you missed Scurge: Hive back in 2006, now’s your chance. Originally released for Game Boy Advance and DS, the cult classic makes a surprise comeback this week, now priced at $14.99/£14.99.

Ratalakia Games is handling the new Switch port, which promises to preserve the original’s core gameplay while adding quality-of-life extras like save states, cheats, and rewind features.

Retro sci-fi meets deadly infection

You play as Jenosa Armaon, a long-haired space mercenary sent to investigate a doomed research lab overrun by a parasitic virus known as Scurge. The twist? She’s already infected.

With every minute that passes, her infection meter ticks up. That mechanic fuels the game’s pressure and pacing, pushing players to move fast, think smart, and upgrade often.

Scurge: Hive leans into its Metroid roots

Like Metroid: Fusion, the game blends exploration and upgrades in a tightly designed sci-fi setting. But here, you get isometric combat, diagonal shooting, and some seriously tricky platforming to boot.

Expect intense action and a bit of puzzle-solving as you power up Jenosa’s armor, weapons, and resistance to the spreading virus.

What’s new in the Switch version?

While the gameplay remains true to its handheld roots, this re-release adds some helpful features:

• Six levels packed with bosses and secrets
• Boss Rush mode for hardcore fans
• Save states and rewind options
• Weapon and armor upgrades
• Classic art and sound preserved
• Infection meter that adds time pressure

A cult classic worth catching up on

Scurge: Hive might not have reached Metroid’s heights, but it carved out its own legacy. The DS version holds a Metascore of 70, and the Switch update could be its best outing yet.

With slick pixel art, a heavy sci-fi narrative, and that time-ticking tension, this is one virus worth revisiting.