Devolver Digital, a powerhouse in the indie game publishing industry, has once again shaped the conversation around video game releases with its recent announcement regarding delays of three anticipated titles. During the satirical event dubbed “Devolver Delayed,” the company unveiled that Baby Steps, Skate Story, and Stick it to the Stickman would be postponed until 2025. This announcement was not just a mere notification of delays; it was presented in a theatrical style, complete with humorous trophies reminiscent of lavish awards shows. This unconventional approach reflects Devolver’s signature blend of irreverence and creative marketing.
Each game was honored with an amusing title that highlighted the nature of these delays. Baby Steps was named “Best Inadvertent Tripping Simulator,” a fitting accolade given the game’s premise of controlling a clumsy character navigating diverse landscapes. The playful tone here is critical; it infuses a sense of light-heartedness into what might otherwise be viewed as disappointing news for fans eagerly awaiting these titles.
For Stick it to the Stickman, the “Best Late Stage Capitalism Roguelite” award was a satirical nod to the current gaming landscape and the genre it inhabits. Players are thrust into ludicrous scenarios as a karate-chopping stickman navigating through surreal environments. This stylistic choice underscores Devolver Digital’s knack for parodying societal themes through its game designs.
In an interesting twist during the event, Devolver also took a moment to spotlight games that had recently successfully entered the market. Titles like Cricket Through The Ages and Neva were not just celebrated for their performance, but were also placed on sale, an approach that creates a sense of community and excitement among players, showcasing that while some games may be delayed, others are thriving.
The show culminated in a delightful twist when it introduced Skate Story as the recipient of the “Best Glass Demon In A Leading Role” award. Players will embody a skater made of glass, gliding through beautifully rendered urban settings—a premise that promises both aesthetic and gameplay innovation. The unexpected announcement of Volvy’s Adventure DX further adds to the mystique surrounding Devolver’s releases. Featuring the company mascot Volvy in a retro-inspired escapade, it was both a surprising and whimsical closure to the event.
As Devolver Digital wrapped up the showcase, it illuminated its commitment to creative and paradoxical marketing strategies, keeping fans guessing about what is real and what is satire. This event serves as a reminder that while delays can thwart expectations, they can also illuminate the art of storytelling in gaming. Rain or shine, fans can catch up with this rollercoaster of emotion and creativity on platforms like YouTube, ensuring that the conversation around Devolver Digital remains as vibrant and unpredictable as their games.