Explore Alaska Native stories with Never Alone's ice climbers
In a week stuffed with all-guns-blazing, triple-A new releases, something like Never Alone is a distinct anomaly. Out now on PS4, Xbox One and PC, it combines challenging puzzle-platforming with a story infused with Iñupiat folklore that comes direct from the source.
Co-developers Upper One Games and E-Line Media collaborated with "nearly 40 members" of the Alaska Native community, including elders and storytellers, and the project was funded by the Cook Inlet Tribal Council to ensure its cultural authenticity. The end result is a 2D platformer in which an Iñupiat girl and an Arctic fox struggle against an immense, eternal blizzard as they climb and clamber together through the harsh Alaskan landscape.
For more on what Joystiq's Danny Cowan described as "a less depressing version" of Limbo - a game we awarded five stars to back in 2010 - check out his PAX Prime preview.
Just to note, the asking price is $15 across the board, with a 10 percent discount for PS Plus and Steam users. Also, the game supports both single-player and local two-player co-op.
Finally, if you're a European PS4 owner who's looking to be Never Alone, unfortunately you'll have to wait a little longer for companionship. E-Line Media and Upper One Games say Sony Europe hasn't approved a required patch yet, meaning the game cannot go live in the region. According to a statement provided to VideoGamer, the PS4 version is now due in Europe this time next week.
[Image: Upper One Games & E-Line Media]
