Prison City Gets Massive Free Update as Physical Editions Arrive Next Week

By Klep Napier | Wearecritix.com

Prison City is officially back in action.

Indie publisher Retroware and developer Programancer have dropped a massive free update for their modern retro side-scroller, delivering major gameplay refinements, new combat mechanics, and expanded content for players across all platforms.

Version 1.0.4.0 is available now, and if you have not stepped back into Detroit’s dystopian mega-prison lately, now is the time.

A Major Gameplay Upgrade

This is more than a routine patch. It is a substantial evolution of the experience.

One of the biggest additions is the introduction of two versions of DCP Headquarters (DCP2):

• COMPACT, now the default layout on Easy and Modern modes

• SPRAWLING, the original intense gauntlet designed for veteran players

This change gives newcomers a more accessible entry point while preserving the punishing challenge longtime players appreciate.

Hal Bruzer also gets a serious combat boost.

[Image Placeholder – Screenshot of Hal using chakram Special Attack]

New additions include:

• A brand-new Special Attack using his chakram, activated with directional input

• The ability to jump mid-slide

• The option to attack while sliding, creating smoother and more aggressive combat flow

• Improved input switching on keyboard and controller

• New minigame variants added to Bomber Mode

The added mobility dramatically enhances moment-to-moment gameplay without sacrificing the classic 8-bit difficulty that defines Prison City.

Physical Editions Arrive Next Week

[Image Placeholder – Physical PS5 and Nintendo Switch box art mockup]

After living exclusively in the digital space, Prison City is preparing to make its physical debut through Limited Run Games.

Pre-orders for PS5 and Nintendo Switch physical editions open February 17 and run through March 22.

The physical release includes:

• A reversible cover

• A printed manual

• 3 Crazy Caps

For collectors and retro enthusiasts, this release feels like a natural extension of the game’s old-school inspiration.

A Love Letter to 8-Bit Action

[Image Placeholder – Gameplay screenshot featuring boss battle]

Inspired by Escape from New York and classic NES titles like Shatterhand and Power Blade, Prison City transports players to a crime-ridden Detroit turned mega-prison.

When Techno-Terrorists seize control of the city, retired ex-cop Hal Bruzer is pulled back into the chaos by his mentor, “The Chief,” to fight through eight security zones and take back what remains of the city’s spirit.

Developed by Programancer, the team behind The Angry Video Game Nerd 8-bit and The Transylvania Adventure of Simon Quest, the game delivers:

• Chakram and grenade-based combat

• Hidden upgrades

• Intense boss battles

• Boss Rush mode

• Bomb Mode

• A retro-themed soundtrack by Raddland Studios

It is a modern retro experience that embraces nostalgia while refining the formula with contemporary design sensibilities.

Prison City continues to prove that modern retro games can evolve without losing their identity. With Version 1.0.4.0 improving accessibility, combat depth, and replay value, this is easily the definitive way to experience the game.

Prison City Version 1.0.4.0 is available now across all platforms.

Physical pre-orders for PS5 and Nintendo Switch begin February 17 and run through March 22 via Limited Run Games.

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