MOONTON Games is taking the classic shoot ’em up genre to bold new heights with Acecraft, the world’s first fully hand-drawn, two-player vertical scrolling mobile shooter. More than just another bullet hell, Acecraft blends 1930s cartoon charm with innovative gameplay systems and a long-term vision to grow into a lasting entertainment IP.
A Hand-Drawn World Inspired by Childhood Classics
Acecraft’s distinctive look is unlike anything else in mobile gaming today. Its art style pays tribute to the golden age of animation, with influences from Looney Tunes, Betty Boop, and Steamboat Willie. The development team describes Acecraft as a way of bottling the nostalgia and magic of their childhoods and sharing it with a new generation.
Producer Darren “Chen” Lu explains that the decision to go fully hand-drawn was the team’s boldest choice:
“We insist on producing every frame of animation by hand… using the ‘one-by-one’ animation standard of 24 frames per second to highlight the game’s cartoonish charm and animation tension.”
This meticulous approach gives Acecraft an expressive, living quality that sets it apart from the fast-but-flat visuals typical of the genre. Instead of pushing for sheer speed, the game delivers battles that feel playful, dynamic, and full of character.
Reinventing Shoot ’Em Up Gameplay
Acecraft doesn’t just innovate visually, it reimagines the genre’s design. Alongside its main storyline, the game introduces diverse gameplay systems rarely seen in shoot ’em ups (STGs):
- Balloon Party – A lighthearted, competitive race to pop balloons for points.
- Bullet Rain Storm – A hardcore mode inspired by Eastern bullet hells, layering dense projectile patterns for players who crave intensity.
This variety gives players multiple rhythms to enjoy, breaking away from the traditional linear gameplay loop of most STGs. Whether you’re in it for casual fun or hardcore challenge, Acecraft has a mode for you.
From Game to IP
For MOONTON, Acecraft isn’t just a single title, it’s the foundation of a new IP. The game will introduce a cast of eight Ace Pilots, each with distinct personalities and stories. Seasonal updates, side stories, and episodic content are planned to continuously expand the world of Acecraft.
“We plan to continuously iterate on the game in seasonal formats, developing a series of content around the characters,” Darren explains.
This IP-first mindset makes Acecraft stand out in the STG genre, which typically prioritizes mechanics over characters and worldbuilding.
“We Fly 2gether”: Pre-Launch Referral Event
Ahead of release, MOONTON has launched a special referral campaign to rally future pilots. Players can “recruit their wingman” through Acecraft’s pre-registration web event, with a chance to win both in-game and real-world rewards.
- Complete missions to earn dice rolls on a virtual board.
- Earn in-game rewards and invite friends to boost your chances.
- Finish the board for entry into a raffle with prizes including themed merchandise, theme park tickets, and the grand prize of two free air tickets.
Winners will be announced on Acecraft’s official channels: Facebook, Discord, TikTok, and Instagram.
Pre-Register Now
With its unique hand-drawn style, creative game modes, and IP-driven vision, Acecraft isn’t just reinventing bullet hells, it’s aiming to build a lasting universe for players to enjoy.
Pre-registration is now live on the App Store, Google Play, and the official Acecraft website. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the first wave of Ace Pilots.
Pre-register here on Google Play & App Store
Official Pre-Registration Page
Acecraft takes flight soon—will you be ready to join the skies of Cloudia?
