So, for the first special of Independent Pixel, I have two games of extremely similar style to show you. The first game is BIT.TRIP RUNNER, a videogame made exclusively for WiiWare by Gaijin Games.




BIT.TRIP RUNNER's premise is simple. You never stop running, you always run at the same pace, and you'll stay in the same part of the screen during the entire level. However, you must hit the proper commands to jump, duck, kick, spring and block in order to make it to the end of the level, or you will have to restart the whole thing over again. With each level filled with gold and point-multiplying powerups to nab, each level will keep on challenging you even after you've beat the game. Collecting all the gold in a level will grant you a bonus challenge at the end, and if all gold is collected there, then you might just get a perfect if all possible points have been collected. Also, doing actions correctly adds to the music and beat of the level, and the song will evolve when you nab a score multiplier. With 36 levels, a soundtrack that will stick to your brain, guest tracks by Anamanaguchi, and colorfully sharp visuals, this game will keep you busy for a good long time.

Platform: Wii
Price: 800 Nintendo Ponits ($8)
Rating (ESRB) : E
Official Website

The second game is an even more independent experience, programmed by only one person. This game is Ninjammin Beat-jitsu by 9BIT Studios, a game that falls under similar qualities of BIT.TRIP RUNNER, but has its own unique quirks.


In Ninjammin Beat-jitsu, you control, well, a ninja. Kinda. He also will keep on running, but there are some new things that make this game different. First of all, you'll come across "notes" to press to activate certain abilities, such as jumping off of walls or sliding across zip-lines, you'll also come across bonus notes, which will increase your score, and enemies as well, in which you must slash away at them in quick-time sequences. While this game can be rather punishing like BIT.TRIP RUNNER, it has checkpoints in each level, and missing a note won't always mean instant restart. In fact, deliberately missing a note may lead to a secret area, which in turn might win you a bonus if you're lucky. With sharp silhouetted graphics, an amazingly fun original soundtrack, secrets to find, and a goofy storyline, this game will also keep you coming for more. Best of all, it's free! So why not check it out?

Platform: Windows OS
Price: FREE
Rating (By Guesswork) : T
Try it out now!

-Final Words-

Both games are extremely unique in their own way, and can be fun as well, but both have their problems. Often, the flail for the correct button will get you restarted, and sometimes, you'll have a "why didn't that work right" moment. Beyond those problems, however, both games are equally exhilarating and fun, and will keep you occupied for good moments to come.

(Note: Ninjammin Beat-jitsu can be downloaded and played on a PSP. try it out!)

~8bit_Ghost