Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater and Spyro the Dragon inspired this platformer

3D platformer SephonieThis is something very special. Two developers created it under the auspices of studio name Analgesic ProductionsThe game is about a group of scientists trapped on an island deserted by a huge underground cave system. The game looks very similar to other 3D platformers. It involves exploring an island and collecting information about the different animal species. But when you actually get your hands on it, the game feels different altogether — that is to say, it feels less like an average platformer, and more like an excellent skateboarding game.

Many of SephonieThe action takes place under the underground labyrinth. It is covered in fauna and flora similar to those found on coral reefs. As one of the scientists, you can run from place to place to explore the landmarks and find species that you can “connect” with by playing a Tetris-like minigame. The scientists, aside from their brilliant intellect, are quite cool. The scientists can run horizontally, jump vertically, and dash along walls.

Image: Analgesic Productions

Although the scientist perform their aerial acts on foot, it feels more like a skating game. The character will move when you press the run button. In Sephonie, it’s more about guiding your character as they propel forward rather than directing every step. Running alongside walls is a great way to explore and combine them with other points for a better landing. You can also use special walls like those covered in squishy brain Coral to refresh your speed and allow for wall jumping chains. As in skateboarding games, there’s a certain kind of patience required to get a feel for the controls, and a similar satisfaction once you do. You can find out more at www.in. SephonieMoving is more of a creative expression than a means to an ending.

Polygon heard from Marina Kittaka of Analgesic that Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater Spyro, the DragonThis inspired SephonieBoth games feature wall rides, grinds and glides. “These are the types of moves that can drastically change how you see a given space, as you grow to understand them,” Kittaka said in an email.

Not only is this movement system compelling in its own right — it also aligns with Sephonie’s It is a very simple idea. It is all about collecting research to better understand Sephonie’s natural environment. You will encounter new formations as you explore the caves. Each area requires you to reconsider your platforming techniques. You will learn more about the island’s geological features by exploring this route. You “connect” with flora and fauna through the puzzle gameplay embedded inside the game, yes — but I also found myself connecting with the island by cruising along the curves of its cave walls. In the end, the landscape isn’t so much a challenge to be conquered as it is a vehicle to enjoy every moment of movement.