Spidersaurs is a run and gun action adventure game developed by WayForward for PC. Players control one of two characters tasked with stopping rampaging dinosaur spider hybrids created by a corporation called InGest. The premise sets up a lighthearted premise rooted in 1990s cartoon aesthetics, where former taste testers Adrian and Victoria wield heavy firepower across a contained campaign.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on side scrolling stages filled with platforming and constant enemy encounters. Movement includes running, jumping, wall climbing, and ceiling hanging, which adds verticality to each level. Combat revolves around a selection of twelve distinct weapons that players acquire and switch between during runs. These range from spread shots and lasers to more unusual options like detonating footballs and bass heavy electronica blasts. Power ups appear throughout the environments to upgrade firepower or grant temporary advantages.
Two playable characters offer slight differences in playstyle. Officer in training Adrian brings a more straightforward approach while punk rocker Victoria leans into a rebellious edge. Progression through the InGest facility unlocks new abilities that expand movement and combat options. The game supports local co op for two players, allowing simultaneous control and shared screen action. Three difficulty settings labeled Well Done, Medium, and Rare adjust enemy density and challenge level without altering the fundamental structure.
Game Modes
Standard play consists of a six stage campaign that takes players through varied environments such as a sweltering jungle, an infested laboratory, and the interior of a live volcano. Each stage features unique Spidersaur designs and environmental hazards that demand precise timing and positioning. After completing the main campaign, players unlock arcade mode for a more traditional high score focused experience and speedrun mode for competitive time trials.
Single player remains fully supported alongside the co op option. The modes emphasize replay through score chasing and faster completion times rather than branching narratives or procedural generation. No additional seasons or live service elements exist beyond the base release content.
Visuals and Presentation
Animation and art direction draw directly from Saturday morning cartoon influences, complete with a dedicated theme song and animated intro sequence. Bright color palettes and exaggerated enemy designs keep the tone energetic and approachable even during intense sequences. Sound design reinforces the retro shooter feel with punchy weapon effects and character voice lines that fit the punk and military archetypes of the protagonists.
Is It Worth Playing?
Spidersaurs delivers a focused run and gun experience that appeals to fans of classic side scrolling shooters. Its short campaign length suits players seeking a complete story without extended time investment, while the unlockable modes provide additional replay value for those who enjoy optimizing runs or competing on leaderboards. Steam user reviews sit at mostly positive, reflecting appreciation for the charm, weapon variety, and co op functionality alongside some notes on controls feeling rigid in places.
The game suits solo players comfortable with challenging platforming or pairs looking for local co op sessions. Its straightforward structure and lack of ongoing updates mean the experience remains exactly as released in 2022, making it a solid choice for anyone drawn to the mutant dinosaur premise and retro inspired mechanics. Those who prefer longer campaigns or modern aiming assists may find the pacing and precision demands less ideal.
