Parkour Prowess: VHOLUME’s Bold Leap into the Future of Movement Gaming

The Fascination of Brutalism in Architecture

Discovering a strange allure for brutalism is not uncommon. The sheer power it exudes, enveloping you in its imposing presence, can be mesmerizing. Its ability to crush spirits in a direct and undeniable manner is both awe-inspiring and oppressive. This architectural style, known for its starkness and lack of adornment, also serves as the perfect backdrop for adrenaline-inducing parkour tricks. Artists like Léonard Lemaitre (Babbdi, Straftat), Nathan Grange, and Niels Tiercelin have tapped into this essence with their creation, VHOLUME. Described as a “first-person parkour adventure set in a dystopian brutalist city where bureaucracy transforms a simple task into an odyssey,” VHOLUME now offers a demo for enthusiasts to experience.

While the demo may be limited in scope, it provides a glimpse into the game’s narrative potential. Set in the derelict capital of Afro-Eurasia, governed by an omnipotent Ministry, the protagonist, Robert, embarks on a bureaucratic quest to reclaim his family’s confiscated ration tickets. The premise hints at a compelling storyline that aligns seamlessly with the stark and unforgiving setting of the brutalist city.

VHOLUME’s gameplay is centered around movement, emphasizing fluid and dynamic traversal mechanics. Drawing comparisons to the iconic Mirror’s Edge series, VHOLUME offers a streamlined experience, focusing on running, jumping, and sliding. These core actions can be combined to execute intricate maneuvers such as wall running and climbing, culminating in exhilarating bursts of speed that leave players dizzy with excitement.

Despite its simplistic controls, VHOLUME boasts complexity in level design. The brutalist environment lends itself well to strategic route planning, with every visible wall surface serving as a potential pathway. The demo features distinct main routes alongside numerous hidden shortcuts, challenging players to explore and innovate. However, caution is advised, as some shortcuts may lead to unexpected mishaps, adding an element of risk to the gameplay.

VHOLUME is tailored for speedrun enthusiasts, offering the ability to compete against ghost recordings of other players. The competitive aspect adds a nostalgic touch, reminiscent of classic gaming experiences, and encourages players to push their limits and master daring maneuvers. The game’s emphasis on movement mechanics positions it as a promising contender in the speedrunning community, with the potential to captivate audiences and showcase impressive skill levels.

For those eager to experience VHOLUME firsthand, the game can be wishlisted and the demo accessed through the provided link. Immerse yourself in the dystopian world of brutalist architecture and embark on a thrilling parkour adventure unlike any other.