- Developed by Brazil’s Asteristic Game Studio, also scheduled for release on Nintendo Switch, PS5, and Xbox.
- A classic 2D action platformer inspired by Mega Man, Alien Soldier, and Mischief Makers
A free Steam demo and Kickstarter campaign for ‘DekaDuck’, a new game currently under development by Brazilian indie studio Asteristic Game Studio, have been released simultaneously.
The previously released first gameplay trailer attracted the attention of international indie game media. Niche Gamer and Aqui é Gamer, among others, introduced the title, highlighting its unique art style and combat system that utilizes enemies. With the release of this Steam demo, support for Windows and Linux platforms has also been officially confirmed.
Plans for a console release have also been revealed. Publishing partner Nejcraft will handle the porting for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Xbox, and will also be responsible for producing physical rewards for Kickstarter backers. Through this, DecaDuck is set to be released to console users as well as PC users.
[Related Article: Half Duck, Half Robot! Hand-drawn Brazilian Action Platformer ‘DekaDuck’]
A hand-drawn world where comic books seem to come to life
Upon accessing Decaduck, the first thing that catches your eye is its unique visuals. Characters and backgrounds created using a full hand-drawn style convey the impression that a comic book is actually coming to life through vivid colors and animation.
In particular, the animated comic book-style opening that unfolds before the game starts naturally introduces the worldview and main characters, emphasizing the unique character of the work. The colorful stages based on the sci-fi worldview also add to the visual enjoyment.
The sound design is also impressive. The crisp sound effects when throwing enemies, the impact sounds when dashing and jumping, and the music building up during boss battles feel like a modern reinterpretation of the classic arcade action game vibe.
The enemy is the weapon… A battle emphasizing experimentation and improvisation
The biggest feature of Decaduck is the protagonist’s detachable mechanical arm.
Players can grab and throw enemies or use them like bombs, and sometimes even use them as stepping stones to open up new paths. It is characterized by the fact that it can be utilized in various ways, not just as a means of attack, but also for movement, puzzles, and combo chaining.
Furthermore, the combination of fast dash and jump actions naturally encourages experimentation and creativity in combat. The development team designed the system to encourage split-second decisions and improvisational play rather than forcing fixed strategies.
The enemies in the game are not merely obstacles. They serve as weapons, means of transportation, and links for more powerful combos. These unique interactions act as a core element of fun unique to Decaduck.
“Short but intense”… Continued acclaim from international media
The reaction from overseas game media since the demo was released has been positive.
LadiesGamers evaluated it, stating, “Although short, it clearly fulfills the role a good demo should play,” and added, “It clearly demonstrates the core mechanics and makes you want to play again.”
Noisy Pixel stated, “Thanks to gameplay with sufficient depth, it goes beyond mere nostalgia,” adding that it “successfully added its own unique character to a classic action platformer.” Linux Gaming News also analyzed it as “an appealing title for action game fans who demand fast input and precise controls.”
Brazilian Indie Studio’s First Challenge
DecaDuck is the first commercial project of Asteristic Game Studio, founded by Brazilian developer Glauco Silva.
The protagonist of the game is ‘Deca Duck,’ a half-duck, half-robot bounty hunter created by scientist Dr. Less. Players will navigate a sci-fi world full of conspiracy and danger while carrying out requests from an employer who is also a criminal.
The development team plans to secure funding for content expansion, system improvements, and the official launch through the ongoing Kickstarter campaign. Backers can directly participate in the development process and influence the final direction of the game.
Combining hand-drawn animation reminiscent of a feature film, a unique enemy utilization system, and a love for classic action platformers, Deca Duck is emerging as a uniquely anticipated title among retro action fans. Attention is focused on whether the initial impression revealed through the free Steam demo will carry through to the official release.
Information regarding DekaDuck
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| Developer / Publisher | Asteristic Game Studio (Brazil / Developer: Glauco Silva) |
| Genre | Hand-drawn 2D Action Platformer / Arcade Action Adventure |
| Release platform | PC (Steam, Linux·Windows) / Nintendo Switch·PS5·Xbox (Nejcraft console porting 담당) |
| Scheduled for release | Undetermined (Kickstarter in progress) |
| demo | Free Steam demo available |
| Art style | Full Hand-Draw 2D Animation / Comic Book Intro / Colorful Cartoon |
| Core mechanics | Detachable mechanical arm / Weaponization of enemies / Environmental interaction / Experimental/Improvisational combat |
| Main Keywords | Duck, Robot, Bounty Hunter, 2D Platformer, Hand Draw, Retro, Sci-Fi, Combo |
| Official Channel | TikTok·Instagram·Facebook·Discord |
| Steam Page | Go to Wishlist |
| Kickstarter page | Shortcut |
