Terminator 2D: NO FATE Review — Pixel-perfect T2 Arcade Action
A loving, fast-paced 2D arcade adaptation of Terminator 2 with gorgeous pixel art, a thumping soundtrack and bite-sized, replayable stages. Great for fans of Contra/Metal Slug, but expect old-school difficulty and a few modern rough edges.
Bitmap Bureau managed to cram the spirit of Terminator 2 into an arcade-sized package that actually plays like it belongs in the 90s. If you grew up on Contra, Genesis shooters or longed for a proper T2 game, this one scratches that itch — with a few modern twists.
Core gameplay is tight run-and-gun action: play as Sarah Connor, John Connor and the T-800 across a mix of classic movie set-pieces and new scenarios. Levels alternate between straight-side scrolling shooting, vehicle/sequence sections and stealth/puzzle beats so the pace rarely stalls. Pixel art animations are top tier and the soundtrack reworks the T2 vibe into adrenaline-fuelled chiptune-cinematic tracks. There are multiple modes (Story, Arcade, Infinite, Boss Rush, Mother of the Future, Level Training) and branching endings to chase, plus a score/rank system that rewards speed and multipliers. Controls feel great on a controller, though PC keybinding is limited and some players want mouse aim or remappable keys. The game can be brutally fair — continues are limited and some platform/boss segments spike difficulty — which is part of the arcade charm but can frustrate casual players. Small issues reported: occasional slowdown on big boss explosions and no classic save resume for Story mode on exit. Overall it’s short but densely packed, designed for replayability and high-score runs rather than a long open world.
Terminator 2D: NO FATE is a lovingly crafted arcade tribute that nails the look, sound and adrenaline of T2 — ideal for short, intense runs and score junkies. Buy it if you want tight retro action; wait or watch for fixes if you need modern PC conveniences.
Pros
- Stunning pixel art and animations that nail the T2 aesthetic.
- Tight, arcade-style run-and-gun gameplay with varied level design.
- Fantastic soundtrack — Brad Fiedel vibes remade for retro action.
Cons
- Short main campaign and pacing can feel stingy for some players.
- Limited PC keybinding/no save-resume option and occasional performance hiccups.
Player Opinion
Players rave about the pixel art, soundtrack and authentic 90s arcade feel — many say it’s the T2 game they always wanted. Praise focuses on tight controls (especially with a controller), varied set pieces and replayability via branching paths and score-chasing. Criticisms are recurring: short length, missing save/continue conveniences and wanting better PC control options. If you loved Contra, Metal Slug or classic Genesis run-and-guns (and you’re a Terminator fan), this is likely your jam.