Hayaku! Island of Darkness

Hayaku! Island of Darkness is a metroidvania game drawing on the visual and audio style of 8-bit era titles, combining platforming, combat, and exploration across large interconnected maps. Players explore a mysterious island using a map system that tracks progress and features navigation stations to unlock area maps as they are discovered.

The game includes an arsenal system with more than twelve weapons that can be used as upgrades for either a sword or a pistol, each capable of levelling up and changing behaviour depending on its level. A Ride Armor customisation system allows players to collect parts throughout the game world to modify a combat robot with new abilities, enabling different combinations suited to varying playstyles.

The story follows Hayaki, a soldier belonging to Reikan, an organisation investigating anomalous activity on an island now inhabited by dangerous creatures. Hayaki is sent to investigate the island while also searching for his missing brother, another Reikan member who disappeared there under unclear circumstances. The game features a chiptune soundtrack and pixel art visuals inspired by NES-era design.