CHAINSPIRE

CHAINSPIRE is a co-op soulslike platformer for one to four players. Every member of the party is bound to the others by a physically simulated chain that catches on level geometry, pulls taut and drags along anyone who falls behind. Combat, platforming and puzzles are all built around this mechanic. Difficulty rises as the party climbs, and larger groups face a harder challenge than smaller ones.

Players choose from a swordsman, archer, mage or a hidden fourth class, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, and the developers describe balancing the party as central to play. Character clothing and armour colours can be customised. Each boss has a distinct set of attacks that must be learned individually. Co-op is optional: a solo player is joined by an AI companion that holds the other end of the chain, follows the player’s route and assists in combat, with the chain’s rules remaining in effect.

The game is set in a dark world, beginning in damp dungeons and progressing through halls, galleries and bridges that indicate the height already climbed. Paths are not signposted, and players are encouraged to explore and collect what they find. Completing the main game unlocks a New Game+ mode with substantially increased difficulty. The developers cite Chained Together, the Dark Souls series and Elden Ring as influences.