Alice Escaped! (2023)

Introduction

Alice Escaped! is an immersive 2D action Metroidvania that combines exploration, combat, and narrative choices. Players follow the journey of Usada and Kotora, two adventurers who find themselves in an unusual world filled with magical books and mysterious landscapes. Their mission is to locate a girl named Alice and find a way to return to their own reality. Along the way, they encounter characters that are both strange and familiar, such as Cheshire Cat, Mad Hatter, and Humpty Dumpty, whose intentions may be ambiguous. Even the white rabbit, Usamura, presents peculiar traits, like a zipper on his back, adding layers of intrigue. The game emphasizes multiple endings, major story choices, and the unfolding of each character’s true objectives, offering players an adventure with depth and replay value.

Gameplay and Combat

The game’s combat system is a core feature, showcasing a stylish tag-team battle mechanic. Players can switch between Usada and Kotora to execute coordinated attacks. Usada wields a massive hammer for close-range melee strikes, while Kotora uses a submachine gun and bombs to deal damage from a distance. Combining their abilities allows for chaining combos that amplify attack power, enabling faster enemy defeat. Defeating enemies contributes to the Chance Gauge, which powers support and ultimate attacks (note: this feature is not available in the demo). Boss encounters require strategic thinking, as players must deplete the boss’s Shield Gauge to unleash a series of attacks, while avoiding the enemy’s strong counterattacks.

Character Development

Players can enhance their characters by collecting skill crystals scattered throughout the world. These crystals improve weapon abilities, unlock unique skills, and increase stats and mobility. Some skills even allow characters to gain allies or influence other characters. Challenging areas known as death matches test combat proficiency, rewarding players with skill crystal fragments for high-count combos or flawless victories. Heart Crystals can be found to increase maximum health, alongside essential items needed to progress. Many of these treasures are protected by traps, encouraging careful exploration and strategic planning. The game allows free exploration, letting players discover hidden secrets and progress at their own pace.

Main Characters

• Usamura-san: A busy white rabbit with a mysterious zipper on his back. He is also searching for Alice and may guide the protagonists.
• Cheshire Cat: A cryptic feline that challenges Usada and Kotora. The cat’s true intentions may extend beyond mere interference.
• Mad Hatter: A dignified lady renowned for daily tea parties. She is beloved in Wonderland but seems to have lost something important recently.
• Alice: The central figure of the quest, whose whereabouts drive the story forward. The Mad Hatter and other characters may hold clues to her location.

Storyline

The adventure begins on a summer day when Usada and Kotora visit the library to complete their homework. Kotora focuses on her studies, while Usada wanders into a secluded book section and discovers a large, intriguing book. A slip of paper falls out containing a single message: "Find Alice." Instantly, a bright light envelops them, transporting them to an unfamiliar grassy field. Soon after, a white rabbit appears, potentially holding the key to returning home. The duo embarks on a journey through this magical book world, following clues and encountering unusual characters, as they attempt to locate the rabbit and, ultimately, Alice.

Game Features

• Character illustrations by PicPicGram, known for Ninja Girl and Japanese School Life.
• Developed by illuCalab, creators of A Magical High School Girl.
• Two playable characters with distinct combat styles.
• Multiple difficulty levels to accommodate different player preferences.
• Exploration-focused Metroidvania structure with multiple endings based on player choices.