Indie games are often fascinating magical little gems, full of innovation, creativity and fun. While the scene has been building steam as of late, many of these projects are still swept under the rug in the gaming business. Enter Kickstart MTL, Girls On Games’ way of sending some love towards indie developers who are trying to make it in Montreal’s rich gaming culture.
Today’s Kickstart MTL puts the spotlight on Light Fall, 2D platformer developed by Quebec city’s Bishop Games.
Just a quick disclaimer: Technically, this isn’t a Montreal game thus defying the Kickstart MTL premise. It hails from the province’s capital but I’ll make another exception since the game seems extremely promising. ALSO: There’s a playable demo available for PC and MAC. You get to try it out before you pledge. Community love at its finest. Want to watch a gameplay video? Alicia Alexandra had played their pre-alpha build on our Indie Spotlight Thursdays. Head over here to check out the stream, and see questions answered by the lead developer David Dion-Paquet.
So what is Light Fall, exactly?– It’s a 2D platformer set in the world of Numbra, an ancient, eerie land perma-basked in moonlight, in which an insidious evil has been wreaking havoc across the realm. Homes are being destroyed, and people are disappearing- all intimately tied with the appearance of strange crystals that have began to sprout. You play as Nox, and your goal is to uncover the truth (and assumedly save the land) while navigating the grim, dangerous world that’s shrouded in darkness, and riddled with creatures. You aren’t to take this journey solo, however. Some creatures you encounter will be friendly, and you’re accompanied and guided by Stryx the Night Owl, the game’s narrator. Your weapon and primary power used throughout the journey is a magical artifact called The Shadow Core, that will help you in immeasurable ways.
Freedom, Platforms and Puzzles – What’s cool about the shadow core is that it gives you the freedom to use it the way you want, allowing you freedom and creativity in how you conquer a level: “Whether you’re exploring, speedrunning or just having fun, there is no “right” or “wrong” way to use it.” The concept kind of reminds of Max: The Curse of the Brotherhood in which your weapon and means of travel is your magically-imbued markers. As Max being one the best platformers (in my humble opinion) I’ve played in the last year, the core principle of flexibility within Light Fall is really intriguing. Among other things, The Shadow Core attributes are (the last one being my personal favorite):
“Act as a shield to block incoming damage; mobile platform that you control at will; disarm traps, solve puzzles and unlock doors; a counterweight in leverage situations; a self-made wall to side jump; also move it around aimlessly and contemplate life (that’s some deep stuff right there, guys)”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YpPCfLSO5RE
Light Fall seems IS extremely promising, and their kickstarter is ending in 8 days with only a little under 3000$ missing from their goal. The visual aesthetics of the game are not only breathtaking, but also very atmospheric, drawing you into this beautifully dark and mysterious world. So far, the story and lore seem to have the potential to be rich and profound as tales of Gods, exploration and ancient worlds build the narrative of Light Fall. As I noted earlier, you can give the game a try on either PC or Mac or check out our stream. I highly recommend you do so.
You can visit their kickstarter page over here to get more information on the game, the playable demo and the exciting rewards they offer for backers. The game is will be initially released on PC and Mac, with potential ports to consoles. Also, send them some love by giving them a follow on twitter!