Physics-based retro 2D platformer game
Toy Cavers is a free adventure game for PC that was made by indie developer Ismael Rodriguez. It is a 2D platformer that features pixel graphics and utilizes physics-based mechanics for its gameplay. In it, players control a pair of cave raiders as they explore various locations in search of treasure.
Reminiscent of ZX spectrum games like Cyclus and Hallowed Knight, Toy Cavers employs retro 8-bit graphics for its design and a neon color palette for its presentation that makes for a charming and nostalgic experience. It’s available in an installable version or as an HTML5 web-based game.
Rope swing
Toy Cavers is a 2D platformer that centers around the adventures of a couple of cave raiders exploring various dungeon-like locations in search of hidden treasures. The places you’ll be exploring are filled with traps and pitfalls, and the way you’ll get through them is with the game’s unique physics-based swinging mechanic. A rope is attached between your two characters, they’ll need to overcome various platforming challenges.
The way swinging works in Toy Cavers is that one of your raiders will use its pickaxe to attach to surfaces, essentially serving as an anchor point from which the other can swing. You can go in either clockwise or counterclockwise motions depending on how you set your swings up. Take the force and momentum of your swings to determine when to let go of one post and attach another.
To add to the challenge, caves as dimly lit, and the focus of light will mainly be on your two raiders, so you also have to gauge distances and figure out if you can attach to something or not. Just note that the game is just a prototype at this point. As such, expect some more changes and bug fixes to come in future updates.
Hang in there
Despite being just a prototype, Toy Cavers already offers an engaging and surprisingly polished experience. From its charming retro graphics to its solid controls and gameplay, there’s a lot to like about it if you’re a fan of these types of games. Things can only get better from here as development for it progresses. Hopefully, a new update comes out soon.
