Ready your Psycho-Gun—Cobra is back. Over four decades since his first appearance in Buichi Terasawa’s legendary manga, the iconic space pirate returns in Space Adventure Cobra – The Awakening, a stylish new video game adaptation coming August 26, 2025. With a trailer that ignites nostalgia and action in equal measure, the question isn’t just “Why now?”—it’s “Why not sooner?”
A Hero from the Past, Reborn for Today
Originally debuting in 1978 and brought to animated life by TMS Entertainment in 1982, Space Adventure Cobra fused space opera, mystery, and outrageous action into a genre-defining hit. But what truly set the series apart was its star—Cobra himself. With a cybernetic left arm and a built-in “Psycho-Gun,” Cobra wasn’t your average hero. He was suave, sarcastic, and just dangerous enough to make you wonder which side he was really on.
Now, in The Awakening, players get to step into Cobra’s boots and blast their way through a modern reimagining of the anime’s first twelve episodes—including the legendary arc centered on Captain Nelson’s treasure. Developed by French studio Magic Pockets, the game aims to stay faithful to the original’s flamboyant style while introducing dynamic, contemporary gameplay mechanics.
Why Now?
It’s a fair question. Why bring back Cobra now, in an age of ultra-realistic graphics and sprawling open-worlds?
For one, there’s been a growing appetite for retro anime revivals and narrative-rich games with distinct character voices. Microids, known for its work on nostalgic IPs like Asterix & Obelix and Tintin, saw Cobra as a perfect candidate: a legend that deserved a second life—this time in interactive form.
Moreover, Cobra’s blend of humor, danger, and sci-fi spectacle feels remarkably fresh in today’s gaming landscape. In an industry saturated with brooding heroes and muted palettes, The Awakening dares to be colorful, pulpy, and proud of its roots.
Gameplay Overview: What to Expect
Fans will find plenty to love. The Awakening is a 2.5D action platformer that lets you wield Cobra’s signature weapons like the Psycho-Gun and Colt Python 77, as well as gadgets like grappling hooks and cigars (yes, really). Players will traverse a variety of exotic planets, solve mysteries, and battle iconic foes including the fearsome Crystal Bowie and the enigmatic Royal Sisters.
The game features three difficulty levels for all types of players—whether you’re a veteran looking for a challenge or a newcomer just eager to enjoy the story. There’s also a two-player co-op mode, letting fans team up for even more cosmic chaos.
Editions and Extras
Microids has gone all-in with multiple editions to please collectors and fans alike:
- Digital Gold Edition (Consoles): Full game + bonus mission “Roulette of Death” + exclusive costumes
- Digital Deluxe Edition (Steam): Includes everything above, plus a digital artbook and original soundtrack
These extras aren’t just fluff—they’re carefully curated nods to the aesthetic and legacy of the original anime.
A Love Letter to the Fans
At its core, The Awakening is more than just a game. It’s a celebration. A love letter to the fans who grew up watching Cobra defy space pirates, seduce mysterious women, and light up the galaxy with one-liners and laser fire. It’s also a bold invitation to a new generation of players who may be discovering this eccentric hero for the first time.
Microids and Magic Pockets have promised to deliver an experience that honors the anime’s visual style, storytelling rhythm, and wild energy—while making it accessible and fun in the modern era.
So whether you’re a diehard fan of the manga, a child of the ’80s anime era, or someone who just loves a good space adventure, The Awakening might be your chance to ride with Cobra one more time.
🚀 Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ww6wcNR388k
🎮 Game launches August 26, 2025 on PS5, Xbox Series, Switch, and PC
🔗 More info: https://www.microids.com/
Don’t just remember Cobra—become him. Watch the trailer, wishlist the game, and prepare to blaze through the stars with one of anime’s most iconic rebels. The galaxy is calling. Are you ready to answer?