Wardner

Wardner is a 2D side-scrolling action-adventure game developed by the 1717 and published by Playism. It was released in 2019 for Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation 4. The game draws inspiration from classic Metroidvania titles, featuring exploration, platforming, and combat.

Players control Wardner, a young adventurer who must explore a vast, interconnected world filled with dangerous creatures and environmental hazards. The core gameplay loop involves navigating through diverse environments, acquiring new abilities and upgrades, and defeating bosses to progress. These abilities often unlock previously inaccessible areas, encouraging backtracking and a deeper exploration of the game's map.

Wardner's combat system is real-time and focuses on melee attacks and the use of various weapons and skills. As the player progresses, they can find or craft new equipment that enhances Wardner's offensive and defensive capabilities. The narrative of Wardner centers around uncovering the secrets of a ruined world and its inhabitants. The game features a unique art style with hand-drawn pixel art and a memorable soundtrack. Its difficulty is often noted, presenting a challenge to players who enjoy mastering combat and platforming mechanics.