Steam Next Fest is one of the most exciting events in the gaming calendar, and it’s easy to see why. For an entire week, gamers get the chance to explore free demos of upcoming titles. This event is a golden opportunity for indie developers to showcase their hard work and creativity.
As a fan of retro platformers, I’ve stumbled upon a title that could quickly become a favorite of mine.
Windswept, developed by WeatherFell, is one of the standout indie games featured in this Steam Next Fest. The story revolves around Marbles, a charming duck hatchling, and Checkers, a clever little turtle, who are swept away from their homes by a fierce storm. Together, they embark on a journey to find their way back, navigating lush forests and confronting menacing foes along the way.
As you take control of Marbles and Checkers, you’ll need to merge their unique abilities to conquer challenges. Marbles glides from platform to platform, can perform a spin attack to launch into the air, and even tosses Checkers at enemies. Conversely, Checkers excels at vertical movement; he can catapult Marbles into the skies and even act as an essential platform for passing over treacherous gaps.
I’ve only managed to play through the early levels of Windswept, but I’m already captivated. Throughout your adventure, you’ll team up with other animals, including a playful dolphin, a massive iguana, and a fluffy husky, each adding new ways to navigate the game’s expansive environments. There are plenty of bosses to conquer, the retro art style is charming, and the gameplay flows effortlessly.
But there’s even more! One of my favorite aspects of the game is its collectibles. No true platformer is complete without hidden treasures, and Windswept embraces this wholeheartedly. Each level, including the introductory tutorial, features collectible coins waiting to be found. Some are in plain sight but may require a clever combination of Marbles’ and Checkers’ skills to reach, while others hide behind objects for you to discover. Bonus levels accessible via portals introduce fresh objectives, like defeating all the enemies or collecting every coin, all while you race against the clock.
The collectible tracker is designed thoughtfully; it clearly indicates when you’ve missed something before progressing too far in a level. I appreciate when developers consider busy players; I often find myself short on time, but I still love the thrill of collecting items. Windswept manages to satisfy that craving without being overly demanding, keeping me enthusiastic about exploring every nook and cranny for that coveted 100 percent completion badge.
You can try out the demo of Windswept yourself during Steam Next Fest, which runs until June 16. If you’re looking to explore more demos, the team at Moyens I/O also recommends Ambrosia Sky, a game that channels the vibe of Power Wash Simulator but set on an alien world, and Phase Zero, an indie horror game that Resident Evil fans will appreciate.
What makes Windswept stand out among other platformers?
The blend of unique character abilities to navigate environments and the charming art style makes Windswept a standout title in the platforming genre.
How can I access the Windswept demo?
You can play the demo during Steam Next Fest, which is available until June 16.
What types of collectibles are in Windswept?
The game features hidden coins and bonus levels that challenge players to collect while finishing objectives under time constraints.
Is Windswept suitable for all ages?
Yes, its charming graphics and engaging gameplay make it suitable for a wide audience, including younger players.
If you’re eager to dive deeper into the world of indie gaming and keep discovering unique titles like Windswept, don’t forget to explore more at Moyens I/O.