We Love It's Guide to…
Climb a shifting tower in a post-cataclysmic 1988, shooting and dashing past traps before your failing heart runs out.
Released 21 Nov 2019
Race Your Failing Heart
Climb a Shifting Tower
Mix Perks and Curses
Black Future ’88 is a Synth-Punk roguelike 2D action Shooter. Vertically climb an always evolving procedural tower to reach the top and kill its insane owner…before your heart explodes. Shoot, slash, dash and upgrade yourself to survive the endless waves of Homicidal AI, Traps & Colossal Wardens.
Developed by SUPERSCARYSNAKES · Published by Good Shepherd Entertainment, Surefire.Games









In an alternate 1988 after a nuclear cataclysm, you play as one of the last survivors, fighting upward through a tower built by the architect responsible. Your goal is to reach the top before your heart gives out.
Each run takes you through procedurally changing rooms filled with enemies and traps. Shoot, slash, jump, and dash through five zones, facing powerful Wardens along the way; a strict time limit keeps the climb moving.
Choose from five characters with different strengths and weaknesses, and gather weapons and upgrades as you go. Buffs can come with drawbacks, while progress between runs unlocks additional weapons and perks. Daily challenges and local co-op offer other ways to take on the tower.
Reviews that praise the game often point to its synth-heavy soundtrack and cyberpunk style, along with its fast arcade action and variety of weapons. Some players enjoy discovering weapon and upgrade combinations, while others find the runs repetitive or too brief. Criticism also commonly mentions visual effects that make combat hard to read and systems that are not clearly explained.
| Platforms | Windows |
|---|---|
| Achievements | 29 |
| Age ratings |
|
| Controller support | Xbox |
| Controller required | No |
| DLC / extras | 1 listed on Steam |
| Content notices |
|
| Metacritic | 74/100 View on Metacritic |
| Website | Official website |