Depthacross

Depthacross is a 2D side‑scrolling platformer developed and published by the independent studio Depthacross Studios. The game was first announced during the 2015 indie game developer conference and entered early access on Steam on 12 October 2016. Full‑release occurred on 8 March 2018 for Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, and later on Nintendo Switch in February 2019. The title is available on digital storefronts and a physical boxed edition was released for the Switch.

The core gameplay revolves around a protagonist named Rowan who navigates procedurally generated underwater levels. Players must avoid or defeat a variety of enemies, solve environmental puzzles, and collect items that unlock hidden upgrades. Depthacross employs a unique gravity mechanic that allows the character to shift between water and air sections, adding strategic depth to traversal. The soundtrack, composed by indie musician Lila Varl, features ambient melodies that respond to player progress.

Critical reception at launch was mixed. Reviewers praised the game’s atmospheric visuals and inventive use of underwater physics, but some criticized the difficulty curve and occasional glitches in level design. According to Metacritic, the game holds a score of 73 out of 100 based on 15 reviews. Despite average reviews, a dedicated community emerged on forums and Discord, sharing user‑generated level mods and speedrun strategies.

In 2021, Depthacross Studios released a free downloadable patch that introduced new “nightmare” modes and updated compatibility for newer operating systems. The game remains a cult favorite among indie platformer enthusiasts, noted for its challenging design and immersive underwater setting.