👋 Introduction

No Way Home by SMG Studio is a twin-stick shooter that combines fast-paced action with a quirky sense of humor and charming hand-drawn visuals. Originally released as an Apple Arcade title in 2020, the game has recently returned as a standalone app on the App Store and also launched on Steam. Players find themselves in a hostile, far-flung corner of the universe, fighting enemies, taking on mercenary missions, looting weapons, and exploring a vast starmap in search of answers—and a way home.

📅 Release and Availability

The game first appeared on Apple Arcade in January 2020, playable across iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV. In June 2025, it re-launched as a standalone purchase on the App Store for iPhone, iPad, and Mac, while simultaneously arriving on Steam.

Pricing differs slightly between platforms: the App Store version is $6.99 CAD and supports universal purchase across Apple devices, while the Steam release is listed at $12.99 CAD. This reflects differences in market expectations—mobile and Mac players typically expect lower prices, while PC audiences are accustomed to paying more for indie releases.

⭐ Reception and Reviews

Critical reception has been generally positive. The game holds a 71 on Metacritic, a 91% positive rating on Steam, and 4.7 out of 5 on the App Store. Reviewers highlight its engaging art style, humorous writing, and accessible but fast-paced gameplay. While some critics note that the action can become repetitive or overly simple, the overall consensus is that No Way Home is an enjoyable and polished indie experience.

🕹️ Gameplay and Features

No Way Home offers more depth than its arcade-like appearance might suggest. Players can upgrade their ship, weapons, and companion, giving a sense of progression as the difficulty ramps up. The addition of a grapple mechanic adds variety, allowing players to interact with the environment in ways beyond simple shooting.

The story is deliberately light and quirky, injecting humor and charm into the action without overwhelming it. Its pacing strikes a balance: easy to pick up for casual play sessions, yet layered enough to sustain longer runs.

One area worth noting is controller support. The game plays seamlessly with a gamepad, but as is too often the case, this feature isn’t highlighted in the App Store’s information bar. Instead, it is tucked away in the description—a missed opportunity for clarity, but an important feature for players seeking a console-like experience.

🎮 Final Thoughts

No Way Home is a twin-stick shooter that successfully blends accessibility with a touch of depth, making it suitable for both casual sessions and extended play. Its hand-drawn art, quirky storytelling, and responsive gameplay help it stand out in a crowded genre.

For fans of twin-stick shooters, it comes highly recommended. And for those unfamiliar with the genre, the App Store’s free-to-try model makes it easy to give it a chance with little risk. Whether on Mac, iPad, or iPhone, No Way Home proves to be a charming, fast-paced adventure worth exploring.