Hollow Knight meets Ori in this hauntingly beautiful, hand-drawn dark Metroidvania.
Developer and artist Whalesong, the artistic pseudonym of Michel Victor, in partnership with programmer Leonardo (known in the industry as leonm), has officially unveiled Morning Star, his debut video game, alongside the launch of its dedicated Steam page. While this marks Victor’s first major venture as a game developer, he is no stranger to the industry, having previously lent his artistic expertise to several projects. With Morning Star, the duo introduces an atmospheric Metroidvania that promises to transport players into a mesmerizing world where haunting darkness intertwines with breathtaking beauty.
In Morning Star, players step into the role of a cloaked figure, adrift and stripped of any recollection of their past. Equipped with a powerful weapon, you’ll navigate a vast, interconnected world brimming with long-buried secrets, formidable enemies, and elusive mysteries. As you journey deeper, the game weaves a narrative that invites you to confront deep, existential questions about identity, memory, and purpose.
Inspired by iconic Metroidvanias such as Hollow Knight and the Ori series, Morning Star immerses players in a world that masterfully balances natural beauty with lurking danger. The game’s characters and enemies are brought to life in a style that evokes the charm of classic animated films, channeling the timeless allure of old-school cartoons. This hand-drawn approach imbues the characters with a deeply expressive, almost cinematic quality, heightening the emotional depth and overall immersion.
Visually, the game leaves an excellent impression, showcasing an impressive level of detail. This is largely attributed to its meticulously painted backgrounds and dynamic, real-time lighting—key features that imbue the world with a sense of life and constant evolution. Each step you take reveals new layers, as the environment shifts to reflect the tone and mood of the moment. Whether you’re strolling through a peaceful forest bathed in soft sunlight or navigating a lava-filled cavern lit by the flicker of flames, every area is thoughtfully crafted to pull you deeper into the game’s enigmatic, detail-rich world.
As for the plot, the developer has, unfortunately, disclosed very few details at this point. However, it has been confirmed that environmental storytelling will play a central role, with a key focus on unraveling the protagonist’s past, his journey through this eerie realm, and the deeper purpose that drives him.
Naturally, more time and additional information will be needed before any definitive conclusions can be drawn. That being said, the game already leaves a strong impression, both conceptually and visually, hinting at substantial potential that we hope will culminate in a polished and captivating final product.
For the latest updates on the project, stay tuned with us and be sure to follow the game’s X account for news, updates, and behind-the-scenes insights into its development. Below, along with the key game features, you’ll find a link to Morning Star’s Steam page, where you can add it to your wishlist if you’re interested.
- Metroidvania Exploration: Roam through a vast, interconnected world full of hidden secrets, unlockable abilities, and new areas waiting to be discovered. Each corner of the world reveals something new, rewarding those who explore thoroughly.
- Stunning Hand-Drawn Art: Characters and enemies are designed with a classic animation style, evoking the charm and fluidity of old-school cartoons. This timeless, expressive approach enhances the game’s emotional storytelling and creates a uniquely captivating visual experience.
- Detailed, Painted Backgrounds: Immerse yourself in a world crafted with super-detailed painted environments. From tranquil forests to perilous lava pits, every background is meticulously designed to match the mood and tone of the world.
- Dynamic Real-Time Lighting: Experience the world in a whole new way with real-time dynamic lighting that reacts to your surroundings. Shadows and light shift as you move through each area, adding an extra layer of depth and immersion to the game.
- Challenging Combat: Engage in intense combat with a variety of enemies and bosses. Master fluid, responsive controls to overcome foes that will test your skill and strategic thinking.
- A Story of Mystery and Self-Discovery: Unravel a complex tale of vengeance, loss, and self-realization. The truth about your past lies hidden within the world, and it’s up to you to uncover it.
Add Morning Star to your wishlist on Steam!
