Fans of mounted-gun arcade shooters have a new title to watch. IGS and Wahlap have launched Monster Eye 3 in China, with information about the English version expected in August.
Monster Eye 3 brings giant-creature action to 4K
The latest entry follows the series into 4K graphics and appears to draw on the same broad appeal as Sega’s influential Let’s Go Jungle, which placed male and female characters in a fight against enormous creatures.
Unlike its predecessors, Monster Eye 3 removes the Kinect motion sensor. The cabinet does appear to retain some form of motion-sensing hardware, although it is not Kinect. The game is not based on an established licence, but its giant-monster theme could still suit a Western family entertainment centre.
English release plans remain unconfirmed
The trailer includes English subtitles, and Wahlap has confirmed that it will share further details about the English version in August. At present, no Western distributor has been confirmed.
Wahlap handled distribution of the first game. The sequel was sold for a period by Amusement Source International, so ASI could potentially take on the new release, but that remains speculation.
A smaller cabinet would broaden its appeal
Large deluxe cabinets can be difficult to place, particularly in venues with tight access routes. A smaller upright version of Monster Eye 3 would give operators more flexibility, even if demand for compact shooters is lower than for full-size models.
This is a wider challenge across modern arcade shooters. Some locations need a gun game but cannot accommodate a deluxe cabinet, especially where lifts and narrow entrances are involved. As a result, operators may have to look back to 1990s machines, since many newer shooters occupy an unusually large footprint.
For Australian operators comparing cabinet sizes, the Arcade Machine Buying Guide offers a useful starting point. Our upright arcade range and arcade repair service are also relevant when planning a venue installation or maintaining older hardware.
Will Monster Eye 3 reach Western arcades?
The China launch gives the series a new technical direction, but its Western future depends on distribution and cabinet availability. Would you play Monster Eye 3, or have you tried either of the earlier games?
For more arcade industry updates and new-release coverage, visit the RETROCADE Arcade Blog.
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