So, What is Natural?
Natural is a retro-inspired platformer that began with a simple idea from my daughter. She imagined a little mushroom collecting seeds while avoiding hungry foxes. It sounded like the perfect premise for a classic platformer, so I decided to make it real.
Readers of Mizuki Kid Monster may recognize Natural as the game that frequently gives Mizuki time management challenges. Now it's grown into a playable world of its own.
When a routine seed-collecting trip goes awry, Mushroom finds himself lost in a mysterious forest. Gather every magical seed, unlock the exit, and find your way home.
Making Every Bit and Byte Count
Some of my favorite games ever made relied on simple mechanics, memorable characters, and level design that continually surprised the player. That's the philosophy behind Natural.
Natural is designed to feel exactly as its name suggests. It's easy to pick up, easy to understand, and gradually teaches new ideas without ever losing sight of its simple core. Running and jumping are all you'll ever need. The fun comes from discovering everything those two actions can do.
With just a handful of pixels, I wanted every character to have a distinct personality and every level to introduce a new idea. Rather than adding more mechanics, the challenge comes from clever level design and finding new ways to use familiar tools.
Meet the Cast
Mushroom
Our little hero. Mushroom needs to find his way back home after a seed collecting journey goes awry. Can you help him?
Faerielinda
Your guide through the forest. She wants to help Mushroom on his way but sometimes her advice arrives a tad too late.
The Foxes
This rowdy skulk of antagonists constantly patrol the forest to find snacks. Are they really mycophagists? Let's not find out.
Still Growing
Natural is an ongoing project, with new mechanics, levels, and features added regularly. Community level creation and sharing are coming soon, and I can't wait to see the clever challenges players dream up for our little mushroom.