Yars Rising preview (Gamescom)

Atari is teaming up with the talented developers at WayForward to breathe new life into one of its most classic franchises with Yars Rising. This 2D action-adventure game blends classic platforming with a rich narrative, offering both nostalgia and innovation for fans of the Yars’ Revenge, while working as a standalone title as well. Does this new take have what it takes to stand out in the crowded landscape of modern Metroidvanias? We took an early look at the game during Gamescom, where we got hands-on with an advanced build, and here’s what we found.

What we know

Yars Rising is a 2D action-adventure game set in a sprawling interconnected world where players control Emi Kimura, a young hacker on a mission to infiltrate the mysterious QoTech corporation. Developed by WayForward, known for their work on titles like Shantae and River City Girls, the game promises to blend platforming, combat, and puzzle-solving with a narrative rich in sci-fi intrigue and retro throwbacks. Emi’s journey sees her evolving her skills and abilities, allowing for deeper exploration and more complex gameplay as she uncovers her connection to an alien race. Fans of the original Yars’ Revenge will spot that WayForward has included retro-inspired minigames that pay homage to the classic Atari 2600 title. Yars Rising is set to launch on PC and multiple console platforms soon, making it accessible to a broad audience of gamers.

What we saw

Our preview session took place at Gamescom, where we met with WayForward’s Game Director James Montagna. During the hands-on demo, we were allowed to explore various segments of the game, jumping between different stages to get a sense of how the gameplay evolves over time. This approach provided us with a broad overview of Yars Rising, from its early moments to more advanced sections where Emi’s abilities have significantly progressed.

What we thought

From what we’ve seen, Yars Rising is shaping up to be an engaging blend of retro charm and modern gameplay design. The narrative premise, which intertwines a personal journey of discovery with a deep sci-fi mystery, adds a compelling layer to the gameplay. WayForward’s signature style is evident throughout, with nicely rendered environments and character designs that pop with personality. The anime-inspired aesthetics coupled with vibrant, dynamic environments keep the game visually appealing, even as the tone shifts from corporate offices to alien landscapes.

However, the game’s early stages might feel a bit underwhelming for some players, as Emi’s initial lack of abilities can make the gameplay feel somewhat limited – we’ll have to see how this works in the final game. From our short impressions, it’s only as you progress and unlock new skills that the game really begins to show what Emi can do, offering increasingly complex challenges and a satisfying sense of growth.

A highlight of our preview was the inclusion of minigames that harkens back to the Atari 2600’s pixelated glory, offering a nostalgic nod to the franchise’s roots. These segments, while brief, are nice throwbacks that will surely resonate with long-time Atari fans. Additionally, the game is peppered with references and nods to other classic IPs, making it a potential treasure trove of Easter eggs for keen-eyed players.

Overall, Yars Rising shows a lot of promise, particularly for those who appreciate a mix of old and new. While the early gameplay might require a bit of patience, the evolving mechanics and intriguing narrative are likely to keep players hooked. We’re eager to see how the full game unfolds and whether it can fully capitalize on its potential when it launches.