Block 17 Mixes Sci-Fi Horror and Dark Humor in a Martian Prison

Stylised pixel action horror Block 17 blends sci-fi horror and humor as a gun-toting mechanic

If playing as a gun-toting mechanic on Mars in a pixel action horror game scratches your sci-fi itch, then Block 17 from Pixel Fusion Games could be right up your exhaust port. You’re sent to fix a major electrical malfunction in a prison on Mars, but quickly end up dishing out lead and flame instead as monsters and alien nasties run amok in the off-planet facility.

Block 17 is a side-scrolling, multi-level action horror game that brings tongue-in-cheek humor and bold ballistics as you push through gloomy prison corridors. You’re joined by a technical sidekick — an autodrone robot that’s just as handy at fixing fuses as it is at blasting enemies — giving the whole thing a fun “maintenance crew vs monstrosities” vibe. For more retro-styled sci-fi horror, see our Athanasia demo review and our horror games roundup.

Trailer — Block 17

Trailer via Pixel Fusion Games.

With secrets to uncover, plenty of level exploration, and a bunch of weapons to play with, being a mechanic has rarely looked this entertaining.

Pixel Fusion Games clearly doffs the cap to a few well-known sci-fi franchises, but insists it’s putting its own spin on the formula to keep things feeling unique. A bright pixel-art palette cuts against the gloomy horror levels, helping the game lean into both arcade shooter fun and moody atmosphere.

There’s no release date announced yet, but you can find more details and wishlist Block 17 on its official Steam page. If you’re into grim, atmospheric horror, you might also like our feature on Shadows Are Alive.

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• Shadows Are Alive — indie horror that makes the dark feel alive