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Ambient Physics Platformer 'NightSky' Now On Steam For Linux

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Developer and publisher Nicalis, Inc. has made an improved version of the popular physics platformer available on Steam for Linux. NightSky was originally developed by the developer of the Knytt games, Nicklas "Nifflas" Nygren, but has been ported to Nicalis' own cross-platform engine.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WuSBZsIf1dk

According to the announcement, the update brings several improvements over the old version, which is available on The Humble Store and Desura:

Quote
  • Native ports for OS X and Linux
  • Bloom effect (you can turn this off in the Settings menu if you don't like it)
  • Steam achievements
  • Adjustable image quality (may boost performance on older PCs)
  • Better full screen handling and multi monitor support


NightSky is an ambient physics platformer where you control a sphere, which has different abilities depending on the level. In some levels you can either speed up or slow down the sphere, while in others you can flip gravity. There are also levels where you don't directly control the sphere, but have to make use of gravity and careful braking, and even the occasional pinball flipper, to get across the level. Additionally, you can sometimes control different kinds of vehicles, like carts and ornithopters. This variation makes for a unique experience that made me fall in love with the game the first time I played through it.

The game isn't without similarities to physics platformers like Type:Rider and iO, and if you like either of those, you'll probably enjoy NightSky. The visuals are similar to those of the Knytt games, with most of the levels draped in silhouettes, with plenty of background details. Though there are a few surprises at the end of the game. There is also the choice between the normal mode, which should be a fair difficulty to most players, and an alternative mode for a far greater challenge.

About the game (from Steam)

Nominated as a IGF Seamus McNally Finalist, NightSky is an ambient action-puzzle game that offers a gameplay experience unlike any other—cerebral challenges fill uniquely designed picturesque worlds. The player must maneuver a sphere by using realistic physics to advance; each of these worlds is broken into different areas. The original soundtrack by experimental jazz musician, Chris Schlarb will further heighten the surreal experience.

Key features:

  • 2D platform/puzzle-based gameplay
  • Advanced 2D physics model
  • Multiple difficulties with unique topography
  • 11 massive levels, each with expansive areas to explore
  • Multiple "vehicles" each with specific uses and dynamics physics
  • Additional secrets and unlockables



NightSky can be picked up for a pittance on Steam while the summer sale lasts.

Article taken from GamingOnLinux.com.
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About the author -
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A big fan of platformers, puzzle games, point-and-click adventures and niche indie games.

I run the Hidden Linux Gems group on Steam, where we highlight good indie games for Linux that we feel deserve more attention.
See more from me
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5 comments

Keizgon Jun 19, 2015
Glad to see another Nicalis game on Linux. Gives me more hope to see Castle in the Darkness eventually. :)

On sale for $2, might as well give it a try. :)
flesk Jun 19, 2015
View PC info
  • Contributing Editor
Yeah, it would be great to see Castle in the Darkness on Linux. It's the only one of their games missing a Linux version now I think.
sunbeam4 Jun 20, 2015
any sign of partial controller support ?
Skiski Jun 21, 2015
It works great with my wired 360 ontroller.
nattydread Jun 22, 2015
This game is a pleasure to play on android
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