The Chaos Engine

ACTION 1993

The Chaos Engine, released in 1993 by The Bitmap Brothers, is a top-down run-and-gun shooter set in a steampunk-inspired alternate history. In a world where a rogue inventor’s machine has twisted time and unleashed monstrous cybernetic creatures, players take on the role of mercenaries hired to battle through the chaos and shut down the deadly contraption.

The game offers six distinct characters—each with unique abilities, weapons, and strengths—ranging from the powerful Navvie to the cunning Thug. Players can tackle the campaign solo with AI assistance or in cooperative two-player mode, navigating maze-like levels filled with enemies, puzzles, and hidden upgrades.

The Chaos Engine is celebrated for its stylish pixel art, atmospheric soundtrack, and strategic gameplay that blends fast-paced shooting with tactical movement. Its challenging difficulty and co-op play make it a standout title of the era, cementing its status as a cult classic in the run-and-gun genre.

Genre: ACTION
Release: 1993
Developer: The Bitmap Brothers
Publisher: Renegade Software

Just play it!

Tip: Press Alt + Enter to toggle fullscreen mode

Quick tips — new to MS-DOS games?

Click inside the game to give it keyboard/mouse focus.
Ctrl + F10 — release or re-capture the mouse cursor.
Saving varies by game — look for Save in the in-game menu (Esc or F1), or try F5 / F7.
Some games use passwords instead of saves — note it down!
Controls are often shown on the game's intro or title screen — don't skip them.
🖥️ CRT filter is on by default for that authentic monitor look. Toggle it with Alt+F7 or the CRT: ON/OFF button in the bottom-right corner of the game. Your preference is remembered.