Akupara Games announced that the hoverbike racing game, Desert Child, is currently available on digital distribution storefronts for the Xbox One, PS4, PC, and the Nintendo Switch. The project eschewed the classical developer/publisher relationship, with Australian indie dev Oscar Brittain opting to get Desert Child funded via the community on Kickstarter.
After gathering up the funds Brittain proceeded to get the game made and then teamed up with Akupara Games to get it released on the Xbox Store, the PlayStation Store, and the Nintendo eShop for $11.99.
Alternatively, you can pick up a digital version of the funky chillstep soundtrack for $7.99. But so far we’ve talked round and about the pricing, availability and platforms, but I think it’s time to talk about the game… or rather, it’s time to take a look at the game in the launch trailer below.
The game combines a story about a racer trying to find a way to get off of Earth and enter into a Grand Prix race on Mars, but he has to battle his way from the bottom of the ranks to the top of the charts in order to do so.
He’ll encounter an eclectic buffet of eccentric characters who will attempt to help and hinder him along the way. The game is accompanied by a lo-fi chillstep soundtrack with a side order of hip hop, featuring artists like Mega Ran, Girlfriend Matrial, Choc Bomb, and Yokito Pilot.
There’s a very stylish aesthetic to the hand-animated game. There’s this new wave hipster vibe to the environments with an unmistakable dash of retro-futurism.
It seems like the kind of game that might appeal to people who enjoyed games like Jet Set Radio Future and Windjammers, but themed around futuristic combat racing, similar to the anime Redline.
There’s also an unhealthy mix of Australian culture peppered throughout the game, so be prepared to indulge in a bit of the outback while you play through the game.
There are a number of quests to partake in, including odd-jobs and races, along with pixel-art designs that were inspired by Cowboy Bebop. You can collect modifications and upgrade your vintage hoverbike, as well as focus more on combat or skill when it comes to racing.
For more info feel free to check out the official Desert Child website, or pick up a copy from the participating digital distributors.
