Laser Guy, an upcoming indie game, centers on a stressed game developer who experiences an unfortunate side effect of anxiety: uncontrollable laser beams erupting from his eyes. This premise forms the core of the twin-stick "anti-shooter," where the primary challenge lies not in defeating enemies, but in avoiding accidental harm to coworkers and the environment.
Players take on the role of this developer, whose laser-eye affliction means any stray beam can be fatal to those around him. Each level requires careful navigation, as killing a coworker necessitates restarting the room. The gameplay thus becomes a strategic exercise in managing the character's unique, hazardous ability. Furniture and environmental objects can be utilized to block the laser beams, providing a means to control their trajectory and avoid collateral damage. This mechanic transforms the game into a tactical experience, prompting players to leverage the terrain to their advantage.
The game introduces additional challenges, such as smokescreens that obscure the movements of wandering coworkers and explosive devices that can instantly eliminate anyone in their vicinity. Some levels will also incorporate puzzles that require precise laser beam reflection, occasionally tasking players with charging batteries to unlock doors. Successfully navigating these obstacles will demand careful timing and strategic use of the environment to prevent unintended casualties.
Laser Guy features an aesthetic described as having "old-web charm," reminiscent of games found on platforms like Nitrome in earlier eras. The game is currently available for playtesting on Steam, with an option to wishlist it for future release.