One genre that is recently enjoying a resurgence, in large part thanks to the Nintendo Switch, is the “MetroidVania” style of 2D action platformers. While the console is fully capable of rendering 3D games like Super Mario Odyssey and Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, its portable screen is absolutely perfect for platformers. And indie developers are taking the confines of the genre and shattering them with stunning visuals and epic storytelling, especially with the likes of Dead Cells and the more recent Gris.
And hopefully, with your help, we can add Freja and the False Prophecy to that list if it reaches its first Stretch Goal.
Project: Freja and the False Prophecy
Developer: Unsigned Double Collective
Genre: 2D Action Platformer
Platform: PC (Win, Mac, Linux)
Funding Target: $30,000 CAD
What Is It?
Freja and The False Prophecy is a MetroidVania game steeped in Norse mythology, exploring the rich stories and characters of the Nine Realms of Yggdrasil, the life tree. The expansive world is brought to life through glorious hand-drawn designs as you combat creatures and gods on this thrilling adventure.
Players control the titular character Freja, a shield-maiden on a journey of self-discovery. She returns home from an expedition overseas, her ship cast upon the rocks. An evil has gripped her land, and she believes the gods have played a part in her tragedy. She finds herself the victim of betrayal, and must overcome insurmountable odds to find answers and redemption. As you progress through the story, Freja grows as a character, both in what she learns as well as new fighting abilities and powers.
If that description has whet your appetite, you can download a free demo right now to experience the game world for yourself.
Why Fund It?
Fans of the genre will find a lot to admire here, from the art direction to the sweeping scope of the story. It weaves many RPG elements into its fabric, with the world populated by interesting mortals and gods who will help and hinder Freja. The cinematics are a joy to watch, and gameplay is quick with responsive controls.
The game promises a challenge, with a harder difficulty level for players familiar with the genre. If you simply want to explore the story and experience the journey, there is a Story Mode built just for you. Should the game smash its target, it will also be coming to consoles, so help the developers reach those goals.
Best Rewards?
- $20 CAD – “Get a digital download key for the game as well as your name in the credits”
- $40 CAD – “Two copies of the game, your name in the credits and an awesome digital bundle filled with goodies.”
- $60 CAD – “Two copies of the game, your name in the credits and an awesome digital bundle filled with goodies. You’ll also be invited to become a beta tester!!”
- $150 CAD – “Two copies of the game, name in the credits, our digital bundle and an assortment of physical rewards. Perfect for those of you who love memorabilia”
- $225 CAD – “Four copies of the game, name in the credits, our digital bundle and a whole bunch of really awesome physical rewards. Perfect for those of you who love memorabilia.”
Until Next Time…
Freja and the False Prophecy brings the Norse myths to life and I hope that you generous backers can not only help bring this project to life, but also bring it to consoles. With Christmas only a few weeks away, you could give this as a gift (especially if you got for a reward with multiple copies) and help the developers in the process. The fact that the delivery date is January 2022 suggests that they have thought long and hard about what they need to achieve their goals, and while it might be two years away, it will be worth the wait.