Hello everyone! I’m Mike Tucker, the design director and programmer at Bitmap Bureau. I’m beyond excited to share some fantastic news on behalf of our team. We are all set to launch Terminator 2D: No Fate, an officially licensed 2D action side-scroller, on the PS5 and PS4 this coming September 5th!
Our team has wholeheartedly devoted ourselves to delivering an electrifying arcade experience filled with striking pixel art, capturing those special moments that define gaming for us. As our first licensed release, we felt a deep responsibility to honor the beloved legacy of Terminator 2.
I view Terminator 2D: No Fate as an ardent salute to the arcade classics of the ’80s and ’90s. My aim was to create the T2 side-scroller we all wished for during our childhood. This game allows players to take control of Sarah Connor, John Connor, and the T-800 as they dive into arcade-style missions that don’t just retell the action of Terminator 2: Judgment Day but also expand its story.
Speaking of Sarah Connor, designing her was one of our favorite parts of the project. As huge fans of the film, we wanted to do justice to one of cinema’s iconic action heroines. We prioritized authenticity in her gameplay, making sure her agility and intense training shine. Sarah is all about melee combat, sliding in for fearless assaults, and we’ve added a laser sight feature inspired by that unforgettable Miles Dyson scene—it’s a powerful tool when you need to lock in for extra damage.
Developing the Future War missions where players get to command an adult John Connor was another thrilling aspect. We got to explore his leadership deeper than the glimpse T2 provides. He’s more about strategic combat, wielding a plasma rifle and throwing pipe bombs around. While not as nimble as Sarah, he has a tactical roll for dodging incoming attacks.
Let’s not forget about the T-800—one of the most commanding figures in film. We worked hard to capture his powerful but deliberate movement, enhancing his heavy presence and formidable might. His segments are particularly exciting, as we recreated iconic scenes like the bar brawl at the Corral and the adrenaline-pumping motorcycle chase, all within a 2D arcade style.
And then there’s the T-1000, a villain that needs no introduction. Robert Patrick’s intense portrayal set the standard, and duplicating that slow, menacing walk along with the aggressive sprint was critical. Rendering his liquid metal abilities in pixel art proved a daunting task, but the animation team captured his formidable menace perfectly. Players will definitely feel the intensity when facing him in the game.
It’s been an incredible honor working on a project that pays homage to such a legendary film. We’ve put our hearts into bringing these beloved characters to life, and we hope you’ll enjoy playing them as much as we loved creating them.
Don’t miss out when Terminator 2D: No Fate arrives on PS5 and PS4 on September 5th!
