CHAINSPIRE

CHAINSPIRE is a soulslike platformer for one to four players, built around a physical chain that connects every member of the party. The chain is fully simulated: it can snag on the environment, pull tight and drag back any player who moves out of step with the others. Combat, platforming and puzzle solving all revolve around this link. The difficulty rises as players progress, and larger parties face a greater challenge.

Players choose from three classes: swordsman, archer and mage. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, so party composition matters, particularly since everyone shares the same chain. Each boss has its own set of attacks that players need to learn individually. Co-op is optional. In solo play, an AI companion holds the other end of the chain, follows the player’s route, joins in combat and assists where two characters are required. The chain and its rules still apply when playing alone.

Characters can be customised by changing the colours of their clothing and armour. The setting is a dark world that players climb through, beginning in damp dungeons and continuing through halls, galleries and bridges that show how high the party has ascended. The game provides no lighting to guide the way, and players are expected to explore, climb and collect items as they go. One DLC item is available for the game on Steam.