Metroidvanias are a favorite genre of mine, and I tend to post about them a lot, as the indie scene has put out some really fantastic ones in the last 15 years. However, what sets Anima Flux apart is that it’s designed with couch co-op in mind. Meaning, you can play with a friend sitting right next to you and adventure together with them. Multiplayer is not something the Metroidvania genre is known for. They’re always single-player experiences. Anima Flux allows you to do both. It also features some beautiful hand-drawn cut-scenes and a moody sci-fi world as well.

Anima Flux has been out for about a month now, and currently has a ‘Very Positive’ user rating on Steam. You can get it on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC. There’s also a playable demo available. Check out the gameplay trailers below:

Anima Flux is a co-op metroidvania with two genetically enhanced soldiers, special agents of a theocratic dictatorial regime. Fight your way through swarms of mutants through a desolate, dystopian space city and save humanity’s last stronghold, if, of course, anyone is still alive…

STORY

The only human city located on the space ark is subjected to an organized mutant invasion. For the sake of survival, a theocratic totalitarian regime sends its best troops to rescue the city and eliminate the threat.

Take control of two elite soldiers, combine their unique abilities and skills. Finesse your way around through the most ferocious foes. Act bravely and fearlessly. After all, you can trick death, by transferring your anima with the latest implant technology. Don’t get consumed by fear of death, because the truth is grimmer.

KEY FEATURES

Co-Op Metroidvania

The unusual spin of the genre, turns the classic metroidvania into a fun, couch co-op adventure. Both characters develop differently as the game goes on. Explore the grim locations of the space ark, rescue an ambushed or seriously injured partner. Get challenged by dangerous mutants and build your own boss-fight strategies together with a friend. And the best part is that you can always switch to single player mode if your pal is not around.

A mind-blowing dystopia

The story is set in a highly detailed game world, told in stunning hand-drawn animated cutscenes, and elaborated in dialogs full of irony. Tragic and intriguing fates of the supporting characters will immerse you into the human world of the far future, where moral and ethical issues trouble the mind more than ever. Search for the truth and prepare for incredible twists and turns.

Unique visual style

Through the artistic lens of 80-90 retro sci-fi aesthetics, the game carefully renders a variety of futuristic 2D visuals mixed with the dark cosmic atmosphere.

[Steam]