ADVERSE is an arcade first-person shooter platformer set in an idyllic world of corruption.
Players navigate through the game's 40+ levels by precisely timing their jumps between platforms and using responsive movement mechanics like dashing to avoid obstacles. Reviewers consistently praise the game's satisfying controls, which allow for a high skill ceiling as players master the challenging platforming.
In addition to platforming, the game features bow and arrow combat as a key gameplay element. Players must use their bow to take down enemy drones attempting to shoot them. Reviewers highlight how the bow and arrow mechanics feel smooth and satisfying, seamlessly complementing the platforming gameplay.
The levels are structured across 8 distinct worlds, with the difficulty ramping up progressively. Early stages serve as a gentle introduction, but the game quickly becomes quite challenging, requiring players to master their platforming and shooting skills. Reviewers note this difficulty progression provides a satisfying sense of accomplishment as players overcome increasingly complex obstacles.
A major strength cited by reviewers is the game's replayability and emphasis on speedrunning. Each level has global leaderboards, encouraging players to continually optimize their routes and times. The responsive controls and precise platforming lend themselves well to this speedrunning focus, as players strive to perfect their runs and climb the leaderboards.