Demo released for Berserk Boy, a retro-inspired platformer with music by Sonic Mania’s composer

A PC demo has been released for Berserk Boy, an upcoming retro-inspired action platformer.

Developed by Japanese studio Berserk Boy Games, the project is inspired by anime and retro games.

Berserk Boy’s soundtrack is composed by Tee Lopes, who previously composed the soundtracks for Sonic Mania, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge and the Mr X Nightmare expansion for Streets of Rage 4.

“In the distant future, a mad scientist and his army of darkness seek to enslave the people of Earth,” the game’s synopsis reads. “Hope for all humanity rests with The Resistance, but are they enough? Enter Kei, a rookie hero who is transformed by mysterious Orb energy into Berserk Boy.”

The game is designed to be a cross between Mega Man and Metroid, in that players obtain new skills by defeating the large bosses at the end of each stage (as in Mega Man), and then use these powers to revisit previous stages and reach inaccessible areas (as in Metroid).

“Explore huge levels with speed and elegance as you grind rails, climb walls, and dash your way through,” the game’s blurb reads. “Take on swarms of enemies utilizing all of your combat skills and transformations.”

It adds: “Berserk Boy brings retro gaming into the modern age with slick and stylish platforming action. Inspired by the genre greats, you’ll be able to play for big scores and fast times in this modern adventure with a retro feel.”

Berserk Boy is set for release on Steam in 2024, but the free demo is available now from the game’s Steam page.