In a comedic flourish that only Devolver Digital could pull off, the company recently announced delays for some of its most anticipated titles: Baby Steps, Skate Story, and Stick it to the Stickman, all now slated for a 2025 release. This revelation came through the uniquely crafted showcase dubbed “Devolver Delayed,” which playfully parodied the grandeur of traditional award ceremonies while bestowing tongue-in-cheek honors on its delayed titles. It’s a quintessential example of how Devolver continues to take an irreverent approach in an industry that often takes itself too seriously.
Celebrating the Quirky
Among the highlights was the presentation of specific awards that humorously encapsulated the essence of each game. Baby Steps, developed by the creator of Getting Over It, was recognized for its accidental slapstick charm, winning the ‘Best Inadvertent Tripping Simulator’. Those familiar with the original titles from Bennett Foddy will appreciate how this new game continues his tradition of difficult yet oddly rewarding gameplay. The preview provided further insight into its unique mechanics, where players navigate a clumsy protagonist through diverse terrains, stumbling and falling in the most entertaining ways.
Similarly, Stick it to the Stickman earned the title of ‘Best Late Stage Capitalism Roguelite’, illustrating the greater cultural commentary embedded within its playful design. Players engage in combat as a stick figure, engaging with various environmental challenges that may serve as an exaggerated reflection of society’s quirks.
Between the awards, a segment called “In Mercatus” toasted to recently successful titles that had made it to market, including a whimsical roster of games like Cricket Through The Ages and The Plucky Squire. To add to the festive spirit, these games were offered at discounted rates on digital platforms, marking a tongue-in-cheek celebration of their timely release against the backdrop of the new delays announced. This juxtaposition cleverly highlights how gaming can combine business and art, ensuring that while some titles are delayed, others flourish.
As the presentation wrapped up, a surprising entry emerged with ‘The Best Colour Version of a Monochromatic Classic’, awarded to Volvy’s Adventure DX. Interestingly, this title had not been previously announced, adding an element of surprise fitting for Devolver’s quirky brand. The appearance of Inscryption creator Daniel Mullins playfully denying his involvement in the game added another layer to the theatricality that Devolver Digital is known for.
In retrospect, “Devolver Delayed” might have initially seemed like unwelcome news regarding game delays; however, it ultimately serves as a reminder of the fun and eccentricity that Devolver Digital brings to gaming events. With the hashtag #DevolverDelayed trending shortly after the showcase, it’s evident that the audience appreciates the company’s ability to keep humor and anticipation alive, ensuring that even in delays, the excitement for the upcoming games remains unquenched. Fans can relive the whimsical showcase on YouTube, bringing a community together to celebrate creativity amidst adversity.