8Bit/Digi

Everybody Fights, No One Quits

I know everyone here is aware that the only good bug is a dead bug, but some people thought this war was over! As a part of Steam Next Fest 2026, we’re blazing our way back into the Starship Troopers universe, like a big blue fart streaking through the night sky, as we tackle the demo for Ultimate Bug War. We’re here to get back into the fight, with General Rico leading us into victory. Come on, you apes, you wanna live forever!?

Straight from the hot hands of publisher Dotemu, there’s a new single-player adventure, developed by Auroch Digital, who are responsible for Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun, so it’s no surprise that this is another helping of bloody retro-styled goodness. The action is tight, and the opening video helps set the tone, along with those film references our squad mates keep dropping, so let’s get this started like we’re back in 1997.

It’s an Ugly Planet. A BUG Planet!

The story recounts the actions of Samantha Dietz, a veteran of the first bug war, as she attempts to hunt down the feared Assassin Bug. That sounds cool as hell, and I immediately want to know more. The demo has us heading to storm Zegema Beach, a place mentioned briefly in the movie, but it feels familiar and comfortable. Everyone is eager to stomp some bugs, to become citizens, but this will not be an easy fight, and we are constantly being overrun. For every insect we squash, three more are ready to turn us into an afternoon snack.

Who Needs a Knife in a Nuke Fight Anyway?

Ultimate Bug War has an old-school feel, PS1-styled graphics that are vibrant and colorful, keeping a less-detailed environment interesting and pleasing for those who have that old retro soul. The gameplay matches that somewhat as well, feeling a bit tough at first, like it should, but as long as we keep moving and finding new guns and ammo, everything is going to be alright. It’s easy to run out of munitions, but there are a lot of weapons lying around, and we can call in supply drops. We have a good bit of equipment to use, even mechs, just make sure to remember these aren’t toys. There is nothing like hitting yourself with an Orbital Strike for throwing the wrong beacon.

The need for more resources keeps us hoofing it around the map. It’s cool to have this open area, running to different objectives, and seeing the sights feels freeing, as we encounter different enemy types, some of which require heavier firepower to take out. I’m not sure if all of the missions will be set up like this, but it’s nice to choose the order I tackle things in, as I watch my comrades die gruesomely, since they keep screaming and getting in the way.

You’re It, Until You’re Dead or I Find Someone Better

This was a demo that I was eager to try, and it did not disappoint. I spent more time with this than I thought I would, and even showed it to a few friends when they came over. From the moment I saw the title screen and how it was laid out, I knew that Ultimate Bug War had some charm to it, so I’ll likely check out the full game too. Not only was the release date announced recently, March 16^th, but there was also a trailer showing off missions where we get to play as a bug. It all sounds quite awesome, and I do recommend the demo to fans of the film, older FPS shooters, or those who are just looking for something a little different.

Thanks, General Rico! 

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides an insight into the video game community and industry of the San Francisco Bay Area.