Two Ukrainian indie developers have started working on the "Unmasked: An Inner Journey". It is an immersive 2D action-adventure platformer with no dialogue. According to the game’s story, the player gets into the main character's consciousness and fights with inner fears and memories.
"Unmasked: An Inner Journey" is the first game of the indie studio "1stone Games", which consists of two passionate game developers, collaborating remotely. Both of them are based in Ukraine.
The game comprises five levels played consecutively, each with its unique setting and ending with a boss fight. Each level introduces new puzzle elements, interactable items or movement modes as well as new player abilities and enemy types. The gameplay is a mix of timed running, jumping, combat and puzzle sequences with occasional chase sequences, in-game cutscenes and boss fights. The game takes roughly 3-3.5 hours to be completed.
The game starts with a zoom-in on a meditating shaman. Throughout the game, the player controls a small human figure wearing a wooden mask to move forward. At the end of the level, the player faces a boss, defeats him, and saves a mystical firefly. During the transition to the next level appears a cutscene in which the firefly softly lands on the meditating shaman and gently dissolves into his body. Advancing, the player sees various violent acts that resemble the meditating shaman. The main idea of the game: the shaman is reflecting upon difficult situations from his past, trying to overcome them in his mind. The whole game is a metaphor for this process.
‘Despite the difficult and profound theme of the game, it is as bright and colorful as possible. This allows the player to relax and meditate with the main character. "Unmasked: An Inner Journey" is developed in an old-school style game. We are confident that you will find it very stylish and nostalgic,’ said Mykyta Rachkevich, 2D artist and animator at "1stone Games".
‘Regarding technical features, we have utilized UE5 and Spine 2D. Additionally, we have created original sounds and music for the game. It has a very gentle and charming sound,’ said Mykola Konzerovsky, programmer and sound designer at "1stone Games".
"Unmasked: An Inner Journey" will be available on Windows, Xbox, and PlayStation, with the list expected to be extended.
The game is scheduled for release in 2024, and "Unmasked: An Inner Journey" can be wish-listed now on Steam.
About developers
Mykola Konzerovsky has more than 10 years in the industry as a programmer. Composer, musician, sound designer. Former UE evangelist and teacher. Author of all sounds and music for "Unmasked: An Inner Journey".
Mykyta Rachkevich has over 15 years of experience as a 2D artist, UE Level Artist and animator. Mykyta has experience with UI Design, Game Design, video editing, and development. Author of all arts for "Unmasked: An Inner Journey".
