In an unexpected twist, the whimsical world of Shovel Game introduces players to none other than Mozart, who humorously suggests they embark on a rather unconventional task: mining a pyramid of refuse. His advice to start at the top to avoid the dreaded floating “shitbricks” adds a layer of absurdity that is emblematic of the game’s overall tone.
Exploring the Unconventional
Shovel Game is a short-form first-person experience that combines elements reminiscent of Minecraft’s destructible environments, albeit with its own unique flair. Players are invited to navigate through a series of bizarre and unfamiliar spaces, each more peculiar than the last. A trailer is available for those curious about this eccentric adventure.
Watch on YouTube
Within this strange universe, only select blocks are mineable, demanding a strategic approach to excavation. The catacombs are populated by eerie, groaning sprites that bear a striking resemblance to Zordon from Power Rangers, evoking a sense of both nostalgia and discomfort. These spectral foes are lethal upon contact, leaving players armed only with a trusty shovel and an enigmatic 8-ball, whose purpose remains a mystery.
Shovel Game is set to launch on Steam, but eager players can get a taste of the experience through a demo available on Itch.io. Prepare for a challenging journey, as the game features a labyrinth teeming with oozy blue phantoms that require nimble footwork to evade. Additionally, players will encounter a cosmic chapel filled with unsettling imagery, including what appear to be flattened infants.
The creative mind behind this intriguing project is Luke Vincent, who developed Shovel Game for a “shovelware horror” game jam, adding a playful twist to the genre. In a delightful bonus, a glance at the submissions page for the same jam reveals a new creation from Mike Klubnika, known for his works like Buckshot Roulette and S.p.l.i.t. Co-developed with James Dornan, Klubnika’s entry, titled Crank It, plunges players into a tense scenario where they must navigate a cavernous hallway filled with gadgets while keeping an eye out for lurking horrors. This premise, while intriguing, seems to tread into even darker territory than the whimsical shit pyramid presented by Mozart.
