Struggling is a physics-based co-op platformer that blends action, indie, casual, and adventure elements on PC. Players control the two arms of a grotesque creature navigating absurd and hazardous environments filled with hazards like swarms of rats and precarious obstacles. The core experience revolves around precise arm control, object interaction, and physics simulation that demands coordination between players or careful solo maneuvering.
Gameplay
The central loop involves manipulating each arm separately to grab, swing, climb, and pull the creature forward. Arms can latch onto almost any surface or object in the environment, including levers, eyeballs, and debris. This system creates unpredictable physics interactions where momentum, weight distribution, and timing determine success or failure. Players must often detach and reattach arms mid-movement, and lost limbs regenerate to keep the action flowing without permanent setbacks.
Environments mix platforming sections with vehicle sequences and evasion challenges. The creature might need to ride a dirt bike across uneven terrain or dodge aggressive wildlife while maintaining balance through arm positioning. Communication becomes essential in co-op because simple actions like walking require synchronized inputs from both players. Solo play allows one person to handle both arms, though the design prioritizes the shared control dynamic for its full effect.
Visuals emphasize grotesque humor with a squishy, malformed protagonist and grotesque level details that reinforce the deranged tone. Challenges scale in complexity as players progress, introducing new environmental hazards and object types that test arm independence and creative problem-solving.
Game Modes
Struggling supports single-player and shared or split-screen co-op. In single-player, one user controls both arms simultaneously through the physics challenges. Co-op mode lets two players each manage one arm, either locally on the same screen or through remote play together functionality. This setup turns every sequence into a test of timing and teamwork, with no additional named modes or competitive variants present.
The experience remains consistent across these options, focusing on the same linear progression of platforming and puzzle-like physics tasks. Features such as Steam achievements track progress through these challenges regardless of play style.
Is It Worth Playing?
Struggling appeals most to players who enjoy quirky physics platformers and cooperative experiences that reward communication. Its short, focused campaign delivers consistent novelty through arm-based mechanics and absurd scenarios without unnecessary padding. The game launched in 2020 and maintains a very positive reception on its primary platform, with 93 percent of 394 user reviews rated positively.
Those seeking a lighthearted yet demanding co-op title for local sessions or remote play will find its strengths here. Solo players can still engage with the full content through single-player controls, though the design shines brightest with a partner. Availability on PC includes standard features like cloud saves and trading cards, making it straightforward to pick up and play without ongoing seasonal content or expansions.
