Ario

Ario is a 2.5D action-adventure game with platforming, puzzles, metroidvania elements and tower defense. Ario sets out to rescue his missing mother from a land plagued by nightmares and curses, but becomes caught in a fight for his life against powerful dark forces. As he seeks revenge, you explore the land, face hazards, fight demons and mechanical enemies, and meet allies and foes. The story reveals secrets about Ario’s past, his homeland and his mother’s whereabouts.

The story and world

The game takes place in a medieval fantasy world with retro steampunk machinery and mythical creatures. Its 12 levels have distinct designs and mechanics, and you use the environment to reach new areas or defeat enemies. Illustrated, fully voiced cutscenes tell the story in Persian.

Movement and combat

You can run, slide, roll, wall-jump and climb ledges. Aim and shoot with Ario’s crossbow, using four skills to overcome enemies and obstacles: dash, stomp, normal arrows and bomb arrows. Enemies have their own mechanics and weak spots, and the levels culminate in boss battles.

Tower defense

Special areas put you in control of powerful ballistae as hordes of enemies approach. You shoot into the depth of these areas, with time slowing down so you can direct each arrow’s path.

Platforming and puzzles

You time your movements to get past hazards such as closing doors and moving platforms. The levels combine platforming and puzzles with environmental challenges that can help you progress or take on enemies.