Léonard Lemaitre, one half of the development team behind the arena shooter Straftat, has released a new parkour-focused game titled Vholume. Unlike its predecessor, which emphasized fast-paced multiplayer combat, Vholume shifts its focus to single-player time trials and exploration within desolate, brutalist cityscapes.
Vholume builds upon the movement mechanics established in Straftat, incorporating an enhanced wall-run alongside existing wall jumps and crouch slides. The game is described as having a surreal, dreamlike sensibility, and its propulsive platforming has drawn comparisons to titles like F-Zero GX and Neon White, as well as Counter-Strike surf maps and Quake's defrag mod. The comparison to defrag, in particular, highlights the emphasis on achieving high momentum for optimal performance.
The game does not feature overt waypoints or barriers, encouraging player-driven exploration. The initial levels are designed to guide players through the mechanics naturally, but venturing off the intended path is not only possible but can lead to accidental discoveries, such as unlocking bonus missions. This freedom in movement is a core tenet of Vholume, with mechanics like wall-running having generous durations and no limits on consecutive uses, unlike in some other platformers.
Instead of mechanical limitations, Vholume uses level design to challenge players. Irregular platform spacing can penalize hasty jumps, and deliberately placed gaps require precise timing for crouch slides and bunny hops to maintain momentum. Mishandling these sequences can result in slower, more deliberate movement.
While the game offers a thrilling experience for those aiming for speed and precision, it also caters to a more casual playstyle. Players can engage with Vholume as an exploration-forward platformer and atmospheric piece. The developer, alongside co-developers Nathan Grange and Niels Tiercelin, has priced Vholume at $8, positioning it as a highly recommended purchase for its value.