by 
Publisher Eastasiasoft has announced that Polygon Bird's debutante shmup Birdcage is coming to console platforms later this month. Originally released for Steam in November 2025, the frenetic shooter will blast off September 23 on PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
The first release from Greek/Scottish studio Polygon Bird Games, Birdcage is a loving tribute to critically acclaimed shmups of yesteryear - such as Ikaruga and Radiant Silvergun - with a narrative setting inspired by the mechanised dystopia of classic sci-fi and anime.
Set in the year 2342, Birdcage sees two factions, Selene and Radon, fighting it out for the fate of Earth. Selene seeks to defend the planet, while Radon seeks to obliterate it, clearing the path for a universal rebirth via the secretive weapon "World-Egg." But as the two sides prepare for their final conflict, a mysterious, singular emissary enters the battlefield.
Blending pixel art with 3D modelling, Birdcage incorporates many features familiar to shmup aficionados while sporting a strong narrative identity of its own. The player's main vessel, the Halcyon, switches handily between spread shots, beam shots, and the powerful "Sword" - a hybrid melee and projectile weapon with unidirectional functionality.
Players blast through six stages of bullet hell, punctuated by waves of formidable enemies, hails of geometric bullets, narrative cutscenes, and an obligatory (but necessary) techno/electro soundtrack.
Last year's Steam release met with praise from critics and players, and this month's console port looks set to bring The War of Cage to a much wider audience. With such an impressive first title under its wing, you could say that Polygon Bird Games has gotten off to a flying start. But I won't.
Birdcage launches September 23 on PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. A PS5 physical edition will follow in March 2027, available exclusively from the Eastasiasoft store.