Iron Bramble, the next project from the developers behind Rusted Moss, is shaping up to be an engrossing pixel art metroidvania. The game presents a cyber-gothic megastructure setting where humanity's souls now reside in robotic bodies after their flesh forms have died out. Players take on the role of a "story-eating demon (?) woman" within this unique world.
The visual presentation of Iron Bramble is characterized by detailed, deep pixel art, creating an immersive aesthetic. However, the core of any metroidvania lies in its traversal mechanics, and Iron Bramble's grappling hook system is designed to be a central element. This mechanic allows for rapid movement by hooking onto specific surfaces, requiring precise timing and momentum to navigate complex platforming challenges.
While the grappling hook offers a unique approach to movement, it may prove divisive. The system involves timing jumps and utilizing momentum, with a noticeable buoyancy that might be initially challenging for some players. The gameplay also integrates twin-stick shooting, asking players to balance zipping around the environment with engaging enemies. Despite the potential difficulty, the demo suggests that platforming challenges are forgiving, with players respawning at their last landed position rather than the beginning of a room, allowing for adaptation and learning.
Despite a personal struggle with the grappling mechanics during a demo playthrough, the game's world and potential for mastery are compelling. The brief glimpse provided by the demo hints at a larger, mysterious world, sparking anticipation for future exploration and the potential for speedrunning challenges. A demo for Iron Bramble is currently available on Steam, with the full release planned for 2027. The game can also be wishlisted on the platform.