In the running for the strangest videogame name ever is VVVVVV, an indie platformer created by Terry Cavanagh.
Irish indie game developer Terry Cavanagh released his newest game this week, titled VVVVVV. No, that isn’t a typo, and I didn’t just fall asleep on my keyboard, that is its actual name. It has got to be the best I’ve seen since Dejoban Games’ AaaaaAAaaaAAAaaAAAAaAAAAA!!! — A Reckless Disregard for Gravity.
VVVVVV is a platformer with a very simple concept that becomes more complicated through Cavanagh’s smart level design. The player moves through each level by swapping the main character’s gravity from upwards to downwards. The metroid-style map is divided up into single screens that are appropriately or humorously named. There are plenty of secrets to be found, often through exploration and quick reflexes. The chiptune soundtrack by Soul Eye compliments the 8-bit visual style.
There is a story as well, which focuses on the captain of a spaceship that is trying to find his crew after a disaster and some random teleportation. VVVVVV can be purchased for $15, but a demo is available for download on the official website or online at Kongregate. The full release has a “huge overworld,” more game modes, and a secret minigame. I’ve played through the whole demo, and it’s quite fun.
As is the case with VVVVVV, the garage game developer is becoming a force to be reckoned with. Eventually, these games will have to find some kind of unique place where they can all come together and be prominently displayed, rather than still remaining somewhat underground. Cavanagh has created other popular indie games in the past, including Don’t Look Back. Find all of Terry’s works on his website.
