I was first introduced to OMUT during a PAX West MegaBit Publishing appointment last year. During my session, I played a demo that was both mesmerizing and incredibly difficult thanks to a boss that relentlessly kicked my ass over and over again.
Fast-forward to today, where a new Steam demo is available for you to check out. Having spent some time with this game last week, here are a few thoughts on what you can expect from this wildly addictive single-player action platformer.

Is it Just A Dream?
OMUT could be defined as an atmospheric experience shrouded in mystery, horror, and survival. Developed by Madame Cyclone and inspired by Slavic folklore, the story revolves around players searching for a red-haired woman from their dreams. As you embark on your quest, you make a deal with a wisecracking skeletal companion to join you and help provide weapons for your protection. Then, you are plunged deep into a chaotic world filled with horrifying visuals and unrelenting bosses.
One of the first things that drew me to OMUT was how unstable and terrifying the overall atmosphere is in this imaginative world. As you start exploring, you’ll see visuals flash across the screen with little or no explanation of their meaning. As you go back and forth trying to determine what’s real and just a dream, you’re pulled even deeper down the rabbit hole with uncertainty on what to expect. This makes for an exciting approach to storytelling as you slowly put the pieces together to complete your journey.

Challenging Bosses
The other aspect that brings this game together is the intense boss battles. The first boss you encounter in the demo is a slimy creature that bounces above your head and must be stopped from reaching the ground. With your shotgun armed, you have to time his movements precisely before firing away and avoid projectiles that he shoots out of his mouth. This fight may take a little while to complete, but it is a good example of how challenging encounters are equally gratifying once you can get past them.
The skeletal companion you meet a few minutes into the demo also serves as the comic relief for the game. His brand of dark humor will keep you entertained while there is still a lot of mystery behind his character and motivations. As I mentioned above, you have a deal to work with him from the start, but you have no idea if this is good or bad. Uncovering the truth about his objectives and this dark, twisted world is something I can’t wait to see.

Verdict So Far
I haven’t even started to scratch the surface with OMUT, but I’m compelled to keep playing, and I look forward to experiencing the final build. If you’re looking for a challenging action platformer that will mess up your mind, look no further than Madame Cyclone’s upcoming title.
Are you planning on checking out OMUT? Let us know in the comments section below.
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