PC Spotlight #54: Pixel RU2

Title: Pixel RU2
Developer: C63 Industries
Platforms: PC
Price: $16.77 (on sale for $10)
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Pixel RU2 (Are You Squared) is a minimalist game that combines platforming, puzzle solving, and shooter elements to make a fun, if lacking experience.

The first thing to note is that Pixel is still in alpha and very early in development. Right now, the game consists of three levels (two finished, one playable but not visually complete) and a level editor. However the mechanics present are very promising. Your little cube can move and jump, swap gravity VVVVV-style, and fire projectiles. Colored gates block your path, only able to be passed once you swap colors; other obstacles alter the level's orientation or kill you outright. Enemy pixels fire at you relentlessly, forcing you to evade their bullets and destroy them with your own. The elements combine to give Pixel a unique style, as you solve color-based puzzles, altering gravity to turn walls into floors, all while evading and fighting other pixels.

Pixel RU2 has a lot of potential and solid framework thanks to its fun mechanics, but its current form is just lacking content, as is to be expected with alphas. You can purchase Pixel RU2 from the developer's site and Desura, or vote for the game on Steam Greenlight.