Solo creator Jelle van Doorne posted an update to their Twitter page reminding viewers that Viola, the upcoming musical RPG platformer, will be entering its Eary Access period in just a few days. The project, which began in 2018, will finally become available for download later this week.
The game tells the story of Viola, a young girl who seems a bit discouraged with practicing the violin. After another failed session, she suddenly finds herself transported into her instrument’s fantastical world, and is introduced to some new colorful characters. Viola will need to embark on a journey through forests, monsters, and magic as she learns to wield a power she never knew she held.
In this world, music is the key. The power of song has many advantages in this realm such as increasing battle attacks, unlocking passageways, summoning animal helpers, and even using magic. Each of your party members carries an instrument of their own, and players will be tasked with coordinating their party’s attacks so that they coincide with the music. Get the timing just right and deal some extra damage to your enemies.
Viola is not a passive RPG. Attacks require the player to time their button taps, and to unleash spells you’ll have to follow a series of rhythm game-esque inputs.
Viola is expected to remain in Early Access no later than the second quarter of 2020. In that time, development plans on incorporating and improving gameplay and content such as including additional levels and storylines, ten recruitable characters, sidequests, and multiple endings. Throughout the process, players are invited to give constructive feedback about their own experiences with the game. Voice your opinions both on social media as well as the Viola Discord page.
You can take a look at the game’s trailer below.
Viola is planned to release on July 23 and will enter Early Access the same day. The game will be playable on the PC via the Steam Store.
For more information regarding Viola and its Early Access period, you can visit the official Viola website or check out the game’s Steam Store page. Be sure to keep up to date on news updates posted to the game’s official Twitter page.