If you’re a fan of dark, challenging, and beautiful pixel-art Metroidvanias, stop what you’re doing. Swedish solo developer Niklas Hallin, the creator of the 2024 cult classic Alruna and the Necro-Industrialists, has just announced the sequel, Alruna: End of History. And the best part? A playable demo is available on Steam right now. The announcement trailer gives us a stunning look at a game that promises to be a ‘tour-de-force of game design,’ and it looks ready to deliver.
What is Alruna: End of History?
This isn’t a direct story sequel but an evolution of the world and gameplay established in the first game. You once again play as Alruna, a flower-nymph on a desperate quest through a bleak, hollowed-out world ruled by the terrifying Necro-Industrialists. Her goal is to find salvation for herself and another tormented dryad, all while searching for the mythical paradise of Elysium. The game explores deep themes of suffering and hope against a backdrop of decaying cathedrals and haunting temples.
A Bigger, Bolder, Widescreen World
One of the first things you’ll notice in the trailer is the new widescreen presentation. The original game’s more constrained aspect ratio has been opened up, giving the gorgeous pixel art more room to breathe. But the changes are more than just cosmetic. The developer has stated that the sequel incorporates hundreds of new ideas, with a heavy dose of inspiration from classics like The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening.
The gameplay has been significantly refined. Alruna can now jump, slide, and dash through the world, and the game introduces a brand-new shooting mechanic, adding a new layer to combat and puzzle-solving. The heavy, atmospheric 8-bit soundtrack is once again being handled by Burning Planet, who are also publishing the game with a unique philosophy of treating each indie game like they’re managing a band.
Try the First Temple and Boss Fight Now
Talk is one thing, but gameplay is another. Niklas Hallin has put his work where his mouth is by releasing a substantial demo on Steam. It includes the entire starting area and the first full temple, culminating in a challenging boss fight. It’s the perfect way to get a feel for the game’s tight platforming, intricate puzzles, and haunting atmosphere before the full release.
Your Questions About Alruna Answered (FAQs)
- What kind of game is Alruna: End of History? It’s a pixel-art Metroidvania with a strong emphasis on puzzles, platforming, and atmospheric storytelling.
- Do I need to play the first game? No. The developer has stated it is not a direct story sequel, so new players can jump right in.
- Who is making the game? It is being created by a single developer, Niklas Hallin, based in Sweden.
- Is there a demo? Yes! A free demo is available right now on Steam. It includes the first temple and a boss fight.
- What are the main inspirations for the game? The developer has cited classic titles like The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening as a major influence on the game’s design.
- When is the full release date? A specific date has not been announced, but the game is planned for a 2026 release.
Conclusion
In a sea of indie Metroidvanias, it takes something special to stand out. Alruna: End of History looks like it has that special quality in spades. With its stunning art, deep atmosphere, and refined gameplay, it’s shaping up to be a must-play for fans of the genre. The fact that a solo developer is crafting an experience this ambitious is incredible, and the new demo is the perfect opportunity to see what all the excitement is about. Don’t sleep on this one; go wishlist it and download the demo. You might just find your next favorite game.