Summary
The new 3D platformerRuffy and the Riversidehas officially set its release date for June 26 in a brand-new trailer. The game, which has already revealed inspirations from other platformers likeRatchet & ClankandCrash Bandicoot, is being developed by indie studio Zockrates Labs and published by Phiphen Games.Ruffy and the Riversidewill launch on PS5, Switch, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games.
Ruffy and the Riversideis a new 3D platformer that puts players in the shoes of the titular Ruffy whose Swap ability allows him to copy and paste various textures. With this power, Ruffy can alter terrain, waterfalls, objects, and various other elements to solve puzzles and progress through different stages.Ruffy and the Riversidegameplayis set in a 3D environment, but the protagonist has a 2D appearance, creating a unique art style that blends modern and retro aesthetics.
Ruffy and the Riverside’slatest trailer revealed that the 3D platformer will be released on June 26. Initially, developer Zockrates Labs had planned to launch the game in the first quarter of the year, but since the studio wanted the platformer to arrive simultaneously on all platforms, it was delayed. Since its announcement,Ruffy and the Riversideis shaping up to be aninnovative title among 3D platformerswith its Swap mechanic. The game is betting on this unique feature as the main element to set the title apart from other platformers.
Ruffy and the Riverside Release Date
In a post on thePlayStation blog, Zockrates Labs' art director, Patrick Ruckdeschel, revealed that Ruffy has all the actions ofa standard 3D platformer, such as jumping, running, skating, or gliding. However, Patrick highlights the Swap mechanic, explaining that it’s simple to understand, but its execution can expand in countless ways. As seen in the trailer, one example is Ruffy copying climbable vines and pasting them into a waterfall, turning the water into vines, and scaling it. Another demonstration shows him changing water into lava to destroy wooden blocks, opening a new path.
Patrick also emphasizes that the Swap feature can be used in combat. Depending on the copied texture, players will be able to freeze enemies or turn them into stone. Several textures not shown in videos can be copied and pasted, and according to the art director, players aiming to collect all treasures and complete side quests will face significant challenges ahead.Ruffy and the Riversideis inspired bymodern collect-a-thon 3D platformerswith some previews saying it also has much in common withBanjo-Kazooie. Those interested in Ruffy’s Swap power won’t have to wait long for the game, which is coming later this year.
