Metanet Announces Multiplayer Sequel to Acclaimed Platformer N++

Metanet Software, the independent development team known for its challenging 2D platformer N++, has announced a new multiplayer sequel. This upcoming title marks a significant return for the studio, whose previous work on N++ concluded in 2015.

A Decade-Long Journey and a Return

The original N++ built upon a foundation established by earlier versions, including the freeware Flash game "N." The development process for N++ spanned a decade, culminating in its release. Following its launch, one of the studio's co-founders, Raigan Burns, reportedly expressed a hope that a similar timeframe would not pass before their next project.

During the intervening years, the co-founders, Raigan Burns and Mare Sheppard, pursued various other interests. Sheppard dedicated time to a master's degree in architecture, while Burns engaged in machine learning and artificial intelligence endeavors. This period also involved exploring design ideas for potential new games.

The Origin of a New Direction

The impetus for the multiplayer sequel emerged from an unexpected source: a hackathon. During this event, Burns developed a simple physics engine that unexpectedly resonated with the core mechanics of their previous platforming titles. This prototype involved a block character capable of jumping and wall-sliding, controlled by multiple players, resulting in a chaotic yet engaging experience.

Sheppard noted the enjoyment derived from this early prototype, particularly the way players could both collaborate and interfere with each other's progress. This dynamic laid the groundwork for the cooperative and competitive elements intended for the new game.

N++ Legacy and Future Prospects

N++ was known for its demanding gameplay, featuring numerous levels and extensive opportunities for user-generated content. Players could design, share, and play custom levels, contributing to the game's longevity and community engagement. The title was incrementally updated over several years, expanding its content and refining its features. This culminated in a final version that included over 4,300 levels.

The upcoming multiplayer sequel aims to leverage these established principles while introducing new cooperative and competitive dimensions. The developers are focusing on creating a system where players can engage with each other in a shared environment, potentially leading to new forms of emergent gameplay and community interaction. Details regarding the exact mechanics and release timeframe for the new game are anticipated in the future.

Source: More than a decade later, the team behind N++ is back with a multiplayer sequel — The Verge. This article was rewritten by AI; please visit the original publisher for the source reporting.