Rivals of Aether stands out as an indie platform fighting game that draws inspiration from classics in the genre, blending elemental powers with animal-themed characters in intense battles.
Gameplay
In Rivals of Aether, players select from a roster of unique rivals, each harnessing the forces of fire, water, air, or earth alongside animal-inspired movements. Combat revolves around platform-based arenas where positioning and timing matter as much as attacks. Special abilities like Zetterburn's burn damage or Orcane's puddle teleportation add layers to strategies, encouraging players to master elemental interactions and combo setups.
The game emphasizes competitive depth with tools for training, including frame data and hitbox visualizations in practice mode. Matches involve knocking opponents off the stage, with recovery mechanics varying by character, such as Wrastor's multiple jumps or Kragg's earth pillar for quick saves.
Game Modes
Versus Mode supports 1v1, 2v2, or free-for-all fights, ideal for local or online play. Story Mode explores the backstories of rivals through narrative-driven challenges, with options for drop-in co-op. Abyss Mode pits players against waves of shadowy fighters, featuring leaderboards and a customizable Abyss Versus variant for friend challenges.
Online Versus allows custom rules against friends, while Ranked Mode offers ladder climbing for competitive players. Tutorial Mode covers lessons from basics to advanced techniques, and Tetherball provides a lighter, sport-themed diversion on a beach setting.
Characters and Abilities
The roster includes fighters like Forsburn with smoke screens and decoys, Maypul who marks and wraps foes with vines, and Absa using cloud control for thunder bolts. Guest characters such as Ori and Sein bring bash and spirit flame mechanics, while Shovel Knight incorporates treasure collection for upgrades and shovel drops.
Each rival has distinct traits, from Etalus freezing ground for armored boosts to Ranno applying poison stacks. These abilities create diverse matchups, rewarding adaptation and skill in manipulating the environment.
Is It Worth Playing?
For enthusiasts of platform fighters seeking tight mechanics and character variety, Rivals of Aether delivers a compelling experience, especially with its focus on elemental strategies and training tools. It has maintained positive player reception through consistent updates that refined balance and added content. With the sequel now available, the original remains a strong choice for those preferring 2D gameplay and accessible entry into the genre.
