TRON is returning to the gaming world in 2025 with Disney TRON: Catalyst, the inaugural publishing venture from Devolver’s Big Fan Games label. This isometric action game, set within the iconic Grid, emphasizes narrative depth, thrilling identity disc combat, and the classic light cycle experience. MaagX gained early access to a hands-off demo, uncovering exciting details about this upcoming title.
Disney TRON: Catalyst is the latest creation from Bithell Games, the studio behind the acclaimed TRON: Identity visual novel released in 2023. While Catalyst continues the TRON storyline, it offers a drastically different gameplay experience. Moving beyond the visual novel detective format of Identity, Catalyst embraces a more traditional action-adventure approach, reminiscent of fast-paced combat seen in games like Hades.
Disney TRON: Catalyst – Announcement Trailer
Although set within the same universe as Identity, Bithell Games confirms that prior experience with the previous game isn’t required to enjoy Catalyst. The game presents a standalone narrative set in the Arq Grid, featuring a new protagonist named Exo, who is on the hunt for a CORE agent known as Conn. Visually, the game embodies the classic TRON aesthetic, complete with vibrant neon colors and a distinct cyberpunk atmosphere. Players will even have the opportunity to pilot a light cycle through the game’s futuristic cityscapes.
Combat takes center stage in TRON: Catalyst. Exo wields an identity disc, capable of both close-quarters melee attacks and ranged assaults. The combat system boasts a variety of abilities, including a powerful disc kick that amplifies damage by returning the disc to Exo after striking enemies. While the demo showcased only early-game combat, Bithell Games promises a broader range of abilities in the full release.
A light cycle moves through a street in Tron: Catalyst.
A particularly intriguing, and currently somewhat enigmatic, feature is Catalyst‘s loop system. This mechanic allows players to restart missions, offering opportunities to approach challenges differently based on acquired knowledge and experience. The exact nature of the loop system remains unclear, but it suggests a dynamic approach to mission completion and replayability.
Disney TRON: Catalyst is scheduled for release in 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.