While the medium of video games is incredibly popular and accessible when it comes to playability, it is much harder to begin developing games, leaving many to give up before they can see if they like it. This phenomenon has led to the maker genre of games, where players are given a game that acts as an editor with simple tools that allow for quick expression of ideas. A few weeks ago, developer and publisher Erlu announced Metroidvania Maker too allow for the simple construction of entire worlds using a set of premade tools. More recently, the team put out the first demo and gameplay trailer, each of which show off some of the features that players will be able to use to make metroidvanias when the game releases.
The trailer starts with the journey of a knight character who is unable to unlock a switch to progress. Unlike other games where they would be forced to turn back, the game instead shifts to editor mode, allowing the player to place springs to create puzzle to unlock the switch. Many hazards and items are shown from there, including saws, rotating fireballs, and waterfalls. In standard metroidvania fashion, the game also allows makers to place upgrades for players to help with combat or traversal.
In addition to playing one’s own creations, players will also be able to share their work with others. While there, they can play through any other levels made by the community either solo or with up to three other players. The recently released demo gives an example of a metroidvania possible with the system with a unique campaign alongside the maker toolkit.
Metroidvanias are a massive undertaking from the perspective of a developer, making any tools to get into the process very useful for potential creators. The demo for Metroidvania Maker is available now on Steam.