Apogee Highlights Speedrunner Mechanics in Crystalline Metroidvania ‘LUCID
Calling all speedrunners! Today at Gamescom, Apogee Entertainment debuted a speedrunner-centric trailer for its upcoming 2D action-platformer RPG LUCID from solo developer Eric Manahan of The Matte Black Studio.
The latest LUCID gameplay trailer showcases the game's fast-paced, acrobatic gameplay and tight controls, which makes LUCID the perfect speedrunning playground! Players can expect an incredible sense of speed without sacrificing maneuverability — to navigate environments, collect resources, and unlock pathways while barely setting foot on the ground. This fluidity carries to LUCID's combat, with the trailer showcasing a masterful takedown of an early game boss, the Sentinel Bludgeon. Whether a speedrunner, vibe-chaser, or completionist, LUCID is approachable to casual and hardcore players alike.
As Oenn, a young Sentinel on a path to fulfill a solemn promise, players must journey through a crystal-punk world torn apart by calamitous events. In this beautifully hand-crafted world, players will absorb powerful abilities that expand movement and enhance their combat skills, allowing them to face off against a diverse cast of enemies and bosses. Inspired by the golden age of 2D sidescrollers, LUCID delivers an experience that seamlessly combines nostalgia with modern gaming. It's fast, action-packed, and narratively rich.
LUCID Key Features:
- Tight Controls: As an extension of the player, Oenn is a joy to handle. While you navigate the platforming puzzles and master the airborne combat, you will enter the oh-so sought-after flow state.
- Crystal Arts: Learn powerful new abilities like the Crystal Blade, Crystal Spear, and Crystal Axe! Each Crystal Art modifies mobility and enhances combat differently, offering a range of options for traversing the world and vanquishing your foes.
- Hmm, So Many Upgrades: Collect Crystal Shards and Rare Materials scattered throughout the land to enhance your Bracers and empower your Crystal Arts by Anointing them.
- Intense Boss Battles!: On your quest, you will encounter many dangerous foes. Use your accumulated knowledge and prowess to conquer these awe-inspiring adversaries and advance further in your quest.
- The Mysteries of Aedyn: In this vast and interconnected world, you can decide when to ascend the frigid Onyx Ridge, traverse the glittering Crystal Caverns, or descend into the gloom of Welltown.
LUCID will first be released for Windows PC via Steam in 2026, with console ports arriving later. Fans can wishlist LUCID on Steam and pledge via PayPal to secure post-Kickstarter backer rewards, including an exclusive alpha demo.
For more information about Apogee Entertainment, visit www.apogeeent.com, follow on Bluesky, X (Twitter), Facebook, Threads, and Instagram, subscribe on YouTube, and join the community on Discord.
