HEROmation, the award-winning Hollywood studio, is set to launch its debut VR game, “The Phoenix Gene,” on Meta Quest this Spring. This narrative-driven, on-rails shooter promises to take players on an exhilarating journey through alternate timelines and parallel worlds.
Gameplay and Story
Players control Firestorm, a rebirthing phoenix, guiding Jackie, a janitor thrust into an extraordinary adventure after a lab accident involving an immortality serum. The game blends intense action with strategic gameplay, drawing inspiration from classics like Pistol Whip, Starfox, and Ikaruga.

Key Features:
- Intuitive controls: Players steer the phoenix like a paper airplane
- Immersive combat: Dodge drones, blast scavengers, and toggle between realities
- Visual health indicator: Firestorm’s appearance reflects player health
- Upgradable abilities: Collect gold flames to enhance combat skills
Development and Team
“The Phoenix Gene” is the result of three years of development by a team led by industry veterans. The project brings together talents from iconic franchises such as Starfox Adventures, Call of Duty, and Skylanders. Renowned composer Grant Kirkhope, known for his work on Mario + Rabbids and GoldenEye 007, has created the game’s soundtrack.
Expanded Universe

For those eager to delve deeper into the game’s lore, HEROmation offers an exclusive VR Book Experience featuring “The Phoenix Gene: Origins of Darkness,” the first novel in an upcoming six-book series.
Availability and Community
“The Phoenix Gene” is now available for wishlisting on the Meta Quest store. Interested players can join the game’s Discord community for behind-the-scenes content, exclusive events, and early updates.
As the release date approaches, “The Phoenix Gene” promises to deliver a unique blend of narrative depth, strategic gameplay, and compelling physical action in the VR space.
