Arduo

Arduo is a 3D sidescrolling platformer where a peaceful planet has been invaded by mysterious robotic enemies from outer space. You take control of a character who must battle through dangerous stages, defeat hostile machines, and defend their home from destruction. It's a classic actionplatformer formula: run, jump, fight, but with a twist that sets it apart from the usual indie platformer crowd.

The core gameplay is all about combat precision. You fight using separate attacks for your right and left hands, which means you're not just mashing a single button, you're managing two distinct attack options while also navigating 3D sidescrolling stages. You'll need to manage your inventory, use precise movement and timing to overcome enemies, and face increasingly challenging situations that test your reflexes and combat skills. There's also a full key binding system, so you can customize the controls to match your preferred playstyle, whether you're on keyboard or controller.

What makes it stand out is the Early Access approach. The developer is using the Early Access period to improve the game's volume, balance, and quality based on player feedback. The core gameplay and chapter structure are already implemented and playable from start to finish, so you're not buying an unfinished skeleton, you're getting a complete experience that's going to get bigger and better. The full version is planned to add 10 different types of achievements, improved boss battles with new attack patterns, new monsters, and a character selection system that lets you choose between different playable characters with different playstyles. The price will stay the same through and after Early Access, so getting in now means you're supporting the game's growth without paying extra later.

It runs on Windows 11 64bit, with an Intel Core i76800K, 8 GB RAM, and a GTX 1050 Ti at minimum. You'll only need 6 GB of storage space. It's built in Unity Engine and developed by a solo developer, which means you can feel that personal, handmade touch in every stage and every enemy encounter.

Who's it for?

If you like 3D platformers with a focus on combat, games like Ratchet & Clank or Jak and Daxter, but you want something with a darker, more alieninvasion vibe, this is worth a look. If you enjoy action games where mastering precise movement and timing is the key to surviving increasingly difficult stages, the challenge curve will keep you engaged. It's also for players who like supporting solo developers and want to be part of a game's Early Access journey, helping shape its development with feedback. And if you just want a cheap, selfcontained actionplatformer that doesn't waste your time with filler, this one's got you covered. The game has a small but positive start on Steam and you're getting a complete Early Access platformer with room to grow.

If the game has sparked your curiosity, good luck claiming victory!