The Terminator franchise is returning to its roots with Terminator 2D: No Fate, a new side-scrolling action game inspired by Terminator 2: Judgment Day. Developed by Bitmap Bureau, the studio behind Xeno Crisis and Final Vendetta, this title launches on September 5, for PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

A Classic Reimagined

Unlike previous T2 adaptations, No Fate blends familiar scenes with original content, including deleted and unfilmed sequences. Players will step into the roles of Sarah Connor, the T-800, and John Connor, each offering distinct gameplay. Sarah relies on stealth and firearms, the T-800 fights with brute force, and John leads the resistance in a post-apocalyptic war against Skynet.

The game’s pixel art pays homage to 90s arcade classics like Super Contra, Final Fight, and Rolling Thunder, modernizing the aesthetic with enhanced colors and details. Gameplay also draws inspiration from RoboCop and Sly Spy, incorporating motorcycle chases and high-speed action sequences reminiscent of classic arcade games.

A New Take on the Story

Beyond recreating iconic moments, No Fate introduces fresh scenarios, multiple endings, and decision-based gameplay that impact the story’s direction. For example, Sarah faces the choice of assassinating Miles Dyson, the scientist responsible for Skynet’s creation. These branching paths encourage replayability, allowing players to explore different outcomes for humanity’s fate.

Bitmap Bureau and publisher Reef Entertainment describe the game as the Terminator 2 adaptation fans should have had decades ago. With its blend of side-scrolling combat, platforming, and narrative depth, No Fate delivers an experience that stays true to the film while expanding on its world.

Terminator 2D: No Fate (Photo: Bitmap Bureau)

The Future of Terminator Games

The Terminator series is still going strong in the gaming world, even without a recent movie release. Another upcoming title, Terminator: Survivors, a survival game by Nacon Milan, is set to release later this year. Despite the gap in films, the franchise continues to thrive through interactive media.

Mark your calendars for September 5, when Terminator 2D: No Fate arrives across multiple platforms, bringing nostalgic action, fresh storytelling, and a new way to experience the legendary Terminator universe. With gameplay that blends action, strategy, and cinematic sequences, this game offers both longtime fans and new players an exciting challenge.