Natsu Kaze, an indie game developer, has just launched a Kickstarter campaign for their latest labor of love, Maple Forest, a monochromatic, Game Boy-inspired adventure/action RPG.
The Kickstarter set out with a funding goal of $36,000 to complete the game, and the support has been overwhelming. The campaign nearly hit its target in no time, promising an exciting journey as this title heads to Windows PC, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and both the Nintendo Switch and its future successor.
Maple Forest draws heavy inspiration from beloved 90s classics, setting players on an adventure across a mysterious island that’s gradually sinking. According to the village lore, the island floats thanks to the power of its guardian god, who resides in a shrine atop a mountain. This shrine, however, has been sealed off by a massive stone door for as long as the villagers can remember. Finding a way to unseal this door and communicate with the island’s guardian is the only hope to save the island, but it requires a hero brave enough to venture into the island’s untamed wilderness.
As the hero in Maple Forest, players will embark on a journey across diverse terrains, from barren deserts and deep lakes to wind-buffeted cliffs and dark dungeons. Your objective? To find the Soul Gems needed to unlock the shrine door. The game promises a rich experience, featuring plenty of dungeons (including some optional ones) and multiple villages and settlements to discover.
Equipping yourself for the journey is crucial, and you’ll find new items not just in dungeons but also in scattered caves, towns, and the overworld. The game will challenge you to solve puzzles, uncover secrets, and defeat myriad monsters.
Maple Forest stands out with its cast of intriguing characters who add depth to your quest.
– **The Fox** is the central hero. While exploring Maple Island, the Fox falls in love with the place but soon learns from the village elder that the island is sinking. Armed with bravery and intellect, the Fox sets out to save the island.
– **The Goat** is the village’s official resident goat, notable for his sweet, laid-back demeanor. Despite his kindness, he has a powerful secret technique no one has seen him use. The Goat quickly becomes a loyal ally to the Fox.
– **The Mermaid** spends her time on the rocks in Maple Island’s southern bay. Known for her tomboyish streak, she enjoys sunbathing, music, and is surprisingly skilled in archery and lance combat. Shy and reticent at first, she increasingly aids the Fox as they progress on their mission.
– **The Sunflower Witch** is a young witch fascinated with gardening. Initially diving into horticulture to aid her potion-making, she found herself too captivated by plants and flowers to focus on magic. Despite her shift in interests, she’s not abandoned her magical roots and still dons her witch’s uniform, occasionally showcasing her magical prowess to those who doubt her abilities.
Dive into the heart of Maple Forest, where every corner hides a secret, every new friend adds to your journey, and every challenge beckons the brave-hearted adventurer. Get ready to embark on this nostalgic, monochrome journey to save an island and perhaps, discover something new about yourself in the process.
