Unsighted

Lore & Background

Unsighted is the debut game of Studio Pixel Punk, founded in 2017 by Brazilian developers Fernanda Dias and Tiani Pixel. The developers cited the Metroid and The Legend of Zelda series as influences, aiming to create an accessible game with inclusive queer representation. The game's time limit mechanic was conceived to give weight to gameplay decisions and build player connection to characters. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the developers added an Explorer Mode that removes all time limits, along with relaxing side activities, to reduce stress. The game was showcased at the 2018 BIG Festival, where it was nominated for Best Game and Best Brazilian Game of the year. In March 2024, the developers announced a new 3D Metroidvania titled Abyss X Zero.

Reader's Guide

Unsighted is significant for its integration of a finite time limit into both narrative and gameplay, forcing players to make selective choices about which characters survive using limited meteor dust. Critics praised this mechanic as innovative and emotionally impactful, with some describing it as creating a thrilling sense of urgency and difficult moral decisions. The game's combat was generally praised for its depth, including a combo system, parry mechanics, and stamina management. However, some critics noted issues with controls, menus, and platforming mechanics, and one reviewer found the time limit notifications unusually cruel. The game's inclusion of an optional Explorer Mode allowed players to disable the time limit, reflecting the developers' intent to make the game accessible. Unsighted was described by Kotaku as the best Metroidvania of 2021.

Did You Know?

• The player and all non-player characters have a depleting time limit; when it expires, they become 'unsighted' and disappear permanently.
• Meteor dust extends time by 24 in-game hours and is finite, requiring players to choose which characters survive.
• The game features two cooperative multiplayer modes: Dungeon Raid and Boss Rush.
• The developers, both transgender women, designed the game to reflect their experiences and subvert expectations of a 'wholesome' game with LGBT themes.