If you’re in the market for a Metroidvania that doesn’t follow the side-scrolling formula, then ABYSS X ZERO should definitely be on your list! The game is a blend of several fan-favorite titles, taking the best elements of games that have become hallmarks in the genre.
While the game was not able to make an appearance at the recent Gamescom 2024 event, that hasn’t stopped the team from showcasing what it has built so far. The videos look very promising, and even netizens are reacting positively to the footage.
Fans Share Appreciation for ABYSS X ZERO Gameplay Footage
The indie game scene has blown up in the past few years, and advancing technology has helped that greatly. Now, even smaller developers can put out some amazing-looking games that can rival even some AAA productions. ABYSS X ZERO is one of the many indie games coming to the market, and it is looking to offer players a blend of some classic, beloved games.
Developed by Studio Pixel Punk, the game has been described as a 3D Metroidvania using low-poly graphics. One of the developers for the game revealed that the inspirations behind the project are titles such as Mega Man Legends and The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker.
Hearing these two names must be music to many gamers, and people have expressed how the game looks really good.
Art style is one of the most important aspects of indie games, and it’s a factor that even the founder of Raw Fury highlighted when speaking to budding game designers. ABYSS X ZERO appears to be of the same mindset, as the visuals in the game are stunning and even feature unique armor sets on the characters.
For those who wish to enjoy the title on the go, the team is working on optimizing the game for the Steam Deck.
While there is no console version available yet, the team does hope to make one possible in the future.
The game is available via Steam and can currently be added to your wishlist. There is no estimated release date yet, as the project is in its early stages, and the team expects a few more years of development before launch.
Indie Games Setting New Standards for the Gaming Industry
At one time, indie games were considered stripped-down clones of popular titles. Today, many AAA games are compared to these games and are even requested to follow their processes. An upcoming example is Post Trauma from Raw Fury, which could go head-to-head against the remake of Silent Hill 2 by Bloober Team.
We also have developers in this space taking on the art style adopted by some of the greatest creators in history. MOUSE adopts the rubber-hose style of animation of the 1930s for its first-person shooter adventure. Expect to see many characters that would fit right into many old Disney cartoons.
The indie gaming scene is not without its challenges, though, as the primary worry for many of these developers is monetizing their products. Even tying up subscription services with major platforms such as Xbox and PlayStation doesn’t seem to be effective, and the future of the industry may be at risk if this doesn’t change.
What are your thoughts on ABYSS X ZERO? Let us know in the comments below!
