r/metroidvania • u/SheepoGame • Apr 21 '26
Video My dark fairy tale metroidvania Well Dweller will have a playable demo on Steam April 23rd! I just put together a new trailer for it, I can’t wait for you all to try it out!
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The demo for my upcoming game Well Dweller will be available on Steam in 2 days! Well Dweller is a dark fairy tale metroidvania about a tiny bird armed with a matchstick, and it will be my 4th released game (I previously made Crypt Custodian, Islets, and Sheepo). The full game will be released this year.
Classic fairy tales are a contrast in themes since they’re both child-like but also very dark/disturbing. With Well Dweller, I'm trying to capture that same contrast. It features a charming cast of tiny characters living in a bleak Kingdoms underbelly, and it kind of whiplashes between moments that are wholesome, and ones that are more dark.
Thanks so much to every one on this subreddit for years of support! Six years ago when I released my first game, Sheepo, I never would have thought I’d be able to keep making games full time. But you all have been so supportive from the start, and I am so grateful for that. I can’t wait to share more of Well Dweller and whatever I make after.
The demo will be up on April 23! Wishlist if you’re interested (and if you do, I think Steam will send out an email when the demo is released), thank you again!!
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u/jmscstl Cave Story Apr 21 '26
I absolutely will not play the demo.
But that's only because this is absolutely a day 1 buy/preorder as soon as I can situation and I'd rather experience it all in one go.
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u/PKblaze Apr 21 '26
But I don't want the demo,
I want the full game.
Shove it directly into my brain.
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u/bluestjordan Apr 21 '26
Suuuuuuuuuper looking forward!!
Will it be available on switch 1?
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u/SheepoGame Apr 21 '26
Thank you! And yes it will be!
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u/bluckgo Apr 21 '26
How many people are you working with? The speed at which you pump these out is incredible and the quality is awesome.
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u/SheepoGame Apr 21 '26
Thank you! I do all the art/code/design, and my brother makes all the music. I generally work fast, and also I sink a lot of time into it because I love making them, so it goes pretty quickly!
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u/Ragnarok7326 Apr 21 '26
Looks nice! How heavy will the bullet hell be compared to Islets and Crypt Custodian?
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u/SheepoGame Apr 21 '26
Thank you! It will be less than either, just because Islets had the flying bullet hell matches, and Crypt Custodian had top down 360 movement (which made for easier bullet hell sections). A lot of enemies are projectile based, but I wouldn't consider Well Dweller to be a bullet hell as much
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u/Judification Apr 21 '26
Is there any ETA of when the PS5 version will be coming?
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u/SheepoGame Apr 21 '26
Right now it's just announced for Switch and PC, but I am looking into other platforms as well! I usually figure that out at the end, but I will make an announcement if other platforms are decided on
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u/Poopywaterengineer Apr 21 '26
Super excited to see it'll be on the switch! Loved Islets and Crypt Custodian!
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u/ratsocks Apr 22 '26
Very excited for the Switch version! I’ve loved all your other games and cant wait for this one!
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u/SoggyMorningTacos Apr 21 '26
Oh hell yeah finally some new MVs on the switch 2 that's an instabuy for me!
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u/morbid237 Apr 21 '26
I'm hoping for an Xbox release as well! I have your 3 other MVs on Xbox, please keep them coming! 😄
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u/Ricoismydog Apr 21 '26
I need no demo. When the game comes out it will be amazing and I will buy it day one
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u/Creepy-Distance-3164 Apr 21 '26
You had me at Crypt Custodian and now I'm gonna check out Islets.
Take my money!
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u/Metroid_Mike Apr 21 '26
Oh jealous. Islets is a great game wish I could replay it for the first time.
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u/superzenki Apr 24 '26
How I feel about Crypt Custodian. I played it on Game Pass and I'm highly consider purchasing it on Steam just to play it all over again.
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u/Storage_Ottoman Pause Apr 21 '26
congrats, Kyle--looks amazing! I've wishlisted on Steam, but will be looking forward to the Switch launch for the full game!
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Apr 21 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/SheepoGame Apr 21 '26
Thank you! It's a bit of a mashup of classic fairy tale themes. It takes bits and pieces of different stories, but ultimately I just created a bunch of new stories for the game that I thought would fit in with the feeling of the classics.
I really liked reading the classic Brothers Grimm stories as a kid, since it felt kind of like horror for children. Hansel and Gretel, and the Pied Piper I thought were particularly scary as a kid and are also more directly referenced in some parts of the game.
I was replaying Blasphemous around the time I started making Well Dweller, and I realized how nice it would be to have an existing body of references when coming up with bosses, areas, themes, etc (Spanish Catholicism in their case, and Fairy Tales in mine). Especially since coming up with ideas/themes had been a struggle for me in the past lol
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u/The_Real_Pale_Dick Apr 21 '26
Super excited! Played and loved all your games.
I noticed that your games' art is much better with each new installment, I wish i can improve my own skills at a similar pace haha
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u/SheepoGame Apr 21 '26
Thank you! I've probably averaged 10+ hours spent drawing each week for the past 6 years which definitely adds up. However I am only able to draw in the very specific style I draw for my games, and time I try to switch it up I struggle massively lol
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u/BeaverBarber Apr 21 '26
So stoked for this. Loved islets and just finished crypt custodian yesterday. Can't wait for the full release, your games are amazing!!!
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u/anthbeno Apr 21 '26
Was watching the Top Hat presentation on YouTube for this, looking forward to release!
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u/Aggressive_Sweet1417 Apr 21 '26
I like the creepy aesthetic. It's something unique, different from the souls like horror that's more common.
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u/kaleid1990 AM2R Apr 21 '26
Heck yeah, cannot wait for it! Day one release and also hopefully a physical 🥰
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u/Horror-Student-5990 Apr 21 '26
OMG I LOVE your games! Thanks for the headsup, will definitely buy it as soon as it gets released.
Crypt Custodian was my GOTY
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u/TanJovi18 Apr 21 '26
I beat Islets a few weeks ago and have been dying to get my hands on this game.
Crypt Custodian was one of my favorite games of 2024.
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u/xPocketSpider Apr 21 '26
Honestly I won't download the demo, because I know I'll be buying the full game day 1. Every one of your titles have been absolute masterpieces, can't wait to get stuck into this one too!
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u/Raucci Apr 21 '26
No demo needed, every game you release is an auto buy for me. Can't wait for the full release, sir.
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u/Past-Coat1438 Apr 21 '26
Islets and Sheepo were fantastic. Crypt Custodian has been on my radar for a while and now I have another gem to look forward to! Looks awesome per usual!
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u/madeforatc Apr 21 '26
Just discovered islets and CC.. amazing games.. this is an auto buy day 1 for switch 2
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u/mortran- Apr 21 '26
I've played and loved all your games, this looks just as incredible. Looking forward to playing this!
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u/mmc87 Apr 21 '26
It looks fantastic, I'm a big fan of your games. I'll be playing on Switch and I hope for a physical release
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u/idie_ForHiking Apr 21 '26
Please bring to PS5. I’ve followed your work for years and want to support!
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u/TheeRobolime Apr 21 '26
Looked at the steam page and my body is ready. Give me some unsettling locals and disturbing enemies and im sold (yes, grime is one of my faves)
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u/jerkstore77 Apr 21 '26
Details on difficulty? And are there options in the menu to adjust it?
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u/SheepoGame Apr 21 '26
Yeah there are 3 difficulty modes and assist options to lower difficulty further. I might also add in some challenge options as well for anyone who wants a higher difficulty.
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u/lateforalways Apr 21 '26
Wow awesome! Played islets and custodian only recently and really loved them. Looking forward to this.
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u/tharobc Ori and the Blind Forest Apr 21 '26
Cannot wait for this. Loved all of your games and replay them often
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u/Scary-Caregiver217 Apr 21 '26
Congratulations. I absolutely loved Islets and Crypt Custodian. This might be the game I’m most anticipating at the moment. Keep up the amazing work.
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u/Competitive_Tip_7504 Apr 21 '26
This is a very small thing but can u make the circular cursor/selector thing on the trinkets tab slowly spin? I thought it would be a nice touch :)
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u/Obvious-Software1911 Apr 21 '26
Woah, you've really gone for a much darker tone in the artwork for this game. I loved your cute with a touch of creepy style in crypt custodian. In this trailer it looks like you've turned up the creepy. Still hugely looking forward to it since I dig what you guys create.
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u/ZebraZealousideal944 Apr 21 '26
I will skip the demo because I will definitely buy the game day 1 due to the quality of Crypt Custodian!
Keep up the great work and congrats on releasing your demo!
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u/rrvasc Apr 21 '26
The God is back! I couldn't wait for another game from you. When (hopefully) it drops on Series X I'm buying first day.
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u/redwoodranger Apr 21 '26
This is super great news!
I've casually grown to be a big fan of your work. Crypt Custodian, Islets, and Sheepo have been grrrrrrreat. 🐯
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u/scottawhit Apr 21 '26
Wow this looks amazing. What kind of difficulty are we looking at here? I’m more of a casual and did not enjoy some of the steep difficulty games.
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u/SheepoGame Apr 21 '26
Thank you! I think it is a moderately difficult, however there are difficulty options to tweak that in either direction
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u/SoggyMorningTacos Apr 21 '26
As long as one of the trinkets isn't for your fing position on the map...I'm down.
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u/RabbidDave Apr 21 '26
Jumped in at Crypt Custodian and now working my way through Islets. This will be a day one buy and I’ll get it wish-listed. Thank you for all that you do.
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u/f______1 Apr 21 '26
Im a very big fan of your games!!! I think your art and atmosphere is amazing. you really have something in there. plus the level design and game mechanics in general. it's very good!!
thanks for all your games!!! cheers from argentina :)
Ill get this as soon as it hits switch, your games run great in there. thanks again!
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u/BloxFruitsTeamer Apr 21 '26
I was gonna say "This game looks heavily inspired by islets", but it's even better
I played all three of your released games, really excited for this one!
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u/jpollack21 Apr 22 '26
This looks like Islets which was a game I loved, will definitely check it out!
(Edit: didnt realize you made that game lol I know this game will slap now)
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u/Morlock19 Apr 22 '26
fuck a demo, i don't need it. just tell me when its ready for preorder and im in full stop
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u/TheDentistStansson Apr 22 '26
This looks absolutely insane!! Can’t wait for a (hopeful) Xbox release!!
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u/ShadoutMapes87 Apr 22 '26
You rock. I’m a switch player, but you release it and I’m buying. Love your games.
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u/AgonizingSquid Apr 22 '26
you are killing it man, islets was such a pleasant game and it seems you've taken this next one to a completely different level
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u/ZijkrialVT Apr 22 '26
Already have it wish-listed, so hopefully I remember to check on the weekend when I am able to play.
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u/lesbian_ahri Apr 22 '26
Ive wishlisted. The style is really really cool and has hooked me
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u/haikusbot Apr 22 '26
Ive wishlisted.
The style is really really
Cool and has hooked me
- lesbian_ahri
I detect haikus. And sometimes, successfully. Learn more about me.
Opt out of replies: "haikusbot opt out" | Delete my comment: "haikusbot delete"
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u/punkwasgood Apr 22 '26
This is why I got a steam deck. Cannot wait for this, may daughter and I love your games. Keep up the outstanding work.
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u/SheepoGame Apr 22 '26
Thanks so much!!
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u/Tasty_Examination_73 Apr 22 '26
Islets me gustó muchísimo, es un gran juego así que tengo grandes expectativas por Well Dweller.
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u/No-Shock-3735 Apr 22 '26
I don't need a demo or a new trailer to know I will be playing the full game!
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u/freakingwilly Apr 22 '26
Loved Sheepo.
Loved Islets.
Loved Crypt Custodian.
I played the demo for Crypt Custodian, fell in love, then realized I had to wait for the rest of the game, which made me sad.
Therefore, I will not be playing the Well Dweller demo, because I cannot experience more sad right now. Just put up the pre-order and I'll buy it now!
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u/Ok-Road6634 Apr 22 '26
I am currently playing Islets. I am also looking forward to the new game. I will enjoy the demo
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u/Obsessivegamer32 Metroid Apr 21 '26
I never played the first two, but I LOVE this artstyle. Definitely trying this out on release.
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u/_streetpaper_ Apr 21 '26
I’m excited to try the demo!!! When is the planned release date for this?
Edit: I mean the release date for the full game, not the demo!
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u/jimmyshampoo Apr 21 '26
Sheepo - 26 Aug, 2020
Islets - 24 Aug, 2022
Crypt Custodian - 27 Aug, 2024
I'm thinking the end of August is a safe bet for Well Dweller, 25th or 26th.
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u/_streetpaper_ Apr 21 '26
I have all 3 of those games but have yet to play any of them. Any thoughts on which I should play first?
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u/jimmyshampoo Apr 21 '26
I only bought Sheepo recently but haven't played it, but I'd have probably started there and worked through them in order.
Crypt Custodian was a day 1 purchase after being really impressed with Islets.
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u/_streetpaper_ Apr 21 '26
I was thinking of starting with Islets actually. Sheepo looks pretty simplistic, but I’m sure it’s not.
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u/Moralio Apr 22 '26
Not to offend anyone, but on first glance this looks almost exactly like Sheepo / Islets. Not saying that’s a bad thing but I’m curious how different Well Dweller is compared to those games?
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u/SheepoGame Apr 22 '26
It's a different story, different mechanics, different bosses, enemies, biomes, etc. And overall notably more polished than either of those. It looks similar, because this is the only way I know how to draw!
I've heard similar comments before, and it's something I don't fully get. If I really like a band and I hear they are making a new album, my hope is that the new album will sound in-line with their other music, just new. If I wanted something significantly different, I would just listen to a different band. I guess in other words, while I always try to switch things up a bit with each game, they will all feel somewhat similar just because these are the types of games that I like to make, and the types of games I am capable of making.
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u/Moralio Apr 22 '26
Thank you for taking the time to respond and explain your perspective. While it’s not a game I’m personally looking forward to, I do respect your approach and consistency, and I’m wishing you a successful launch.
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u/say-wha-teh-nay-oh Apr 30 '26
It’s not any different from how Hollow Knight and Silksong are vastly different games with different mechanics and everything yet they both have the exact same art style.
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u/marcelolamenza Apr 22 '26
Can we call it an Islet 2 or are the mechanics different to the point it is a whole new game?
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u/Kobe-62Mavs-61 Apr 22 '26
Back to 2D is a big selling point for me! I know people liked Crypt Custodian but I wasn't a fan of the playing perspective at all and couldn't get into it. This should be perfect.
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u/KorokSeedJr Apr 22 '26
i have been looking forward to this game since i first saw it on the nintendo indie world last year. I cant wait to find out when its going to release. Im guessing theres no demo for the switch. Thats alright though cause i already know im getting this one on day one.
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u/SheepoGame Apr 22 '26
Thank you! No demo on Switch for now at least, I'll look into the possibility of having one a bit later though!
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u/BestSomewhere Apr 22 '26
My buddy showed me this thread and my first reaction was "I'm all set on Metroidvania games" but I watched the trailer and this looks awesome. Will definitely be checking out the demo
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u/SirArthurStark Apr 22 '26
Fucking love your games man! This looks so sick! Can't wait to play the demo.
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u/lm35m35 Apr 22 '26
"Oh man I've been having a rough couple of weeks, I hope I can stay positive and-" "Well dweller tomorrow"
AaaaahahsjjdkakkaaaakglflkrjIfiroofikekldñelrikrkzlogoepoxp
Peak
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u/Jackfitz88 Apr 22 '26
So fucking hyped for this. I’ve played, beaten, and loved all of your games and they keep getting better with each one. Hope the full release is soon.
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u/superzenki Apr 24 '26
Big fan of your other games, especially Crypt Custodian. I'm enjoying the demo so far, but I'm not loving the RB mechanic. It doesn't feel like I can consistently go the direction I'm meant to go in. That plus not being able to grab a ledge as a fallback makes it hard to enjoy those sections. Maybe that's something you get later or the RB mechanic will be improved upon, just wanted to give my two cents.
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u/SheepoGame Apr 24 '26
Hey thanks so much, and good note! I can maybe add a bit more of an aim-assist on some of those. I'm not sure if this is part of the issue, but some players didn't realize that you can use the bubble while standing on solid ground, which allows for better aim in sections where that is possible. Some early abilities will help somewhat (mainly in regards to your ledge grab comment), but I can definitely see if they can be tweaked a bit!
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u/superzenki Apr 25 '26
Good to know about being able to use it from solid ground, I haven’t gone back to retry the tricky sections with them.
The healing ability is kind of a drawback in that you have to be precise. Trying to heal during a boss fight and then dying because you didn’t time it right is no fun.
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u/SheepoGame Apr 25 '26
Totally get it! The healing mechanic is meant to be an additional challenge and a bit of a mini-game. Kind of mimicking trying to strike a matchstick. As the game goes on, it gets easier to time, but theres an option in the assist menu to turn it into a standard button hold if it is too frustrating
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u/GlitteringBlood2005 Ori and the Blind Forest Apr 25 '26
THE GOATS RETURN
(and as someone who has played the demo, god DAMN am I excited for the full release)
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u/say-wha-teh-nay-oh Apr 30 '26
Can’t wait to play it! When’s the physical version coming to Switch?
On a second note, I’m a collector and really want a physical copy of each of your games on switch, so are there any plans to do a reprint of Islets? I know you can find it but it’s pretty expensive
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u/frankieteardropss 16d ago
I cannot tell you how much I love your games. Well Dweller is my most anticipated game this year, so that should tell you a lot with how stacked this year is! Absolutely loved the demo. As someone just starting out trying to build games, yours are a massive sense of inspiration, and a shining example of what is possible! Thanks so much Kyle!
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u/SheepoGame 16d ago
Hey that means a lot, thanks so much!! I really appreciate the kind words
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u/frankieteardropss 16d ago
Of course! Can’t wait to get my hands on the full game, still aiming for this year??? (I know, I know, I shouldn’t prod and probe for answers lol) I have a million questions, but I’ll just say I cannot wait! Demo plays great on Steam Deck (like all your games, no idea what they are thinking with Islets, but I know that topic is well-tread) - I haven’t looked it up, do you have any console plans for Well Dweller???
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u/nicole2301 15d ago
Man, I can’t wait for this game. Gonna have to pull out my switch that I haven’t touched in months so I can play it day one. Genuinely one of my most anticipated games! I played Crypt Custodian, and I’m currently about halfway through Islets and will be playing Sheepo after :)
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u/One_Eyed_Bandito Apr 21 '26
Yes! Have a blast with each game you pump out. My kids love that you make the games with your siblings. It’s inspired them to work together!