Alkali is a free adventure game for PC developed by Sleipner Games. It is a 2D side-scrolling platformer inspired by principles of chemistry for its core gameplay. In it, players use the chemical reaction of alkali metal to help them traverse and clear out levels.

Just like with Deepest Sword or They Always Run that utilizes unique mechanics, Alkali also injects its own twist into its gameplay to make it more varied and interesting to play. Each one will play a role as players maneuver and avoid the game's various traps and obstacles.

What is Alkali about?

In Alkali, you play as a type of metal defined in chemistry as a basic ionic form of an alkaline earth metal. The properties and chemical reactions of alkali also heavily influence how you play the game and each of its levels. There are various ways to power yourself up and use your skill. Collect chucks of metal to grow yourself or leap into water for an explosive jump to propel you.

There are four worlds featured in the game. There are two Regular Worlds that have 16 levels, and two Dark Worlds that have 10. The main distinction between them is in their level design. The former is located above ground, while the latter is located beneath the surface. There is even a level editor that will let you make your own course that you can easily incorporate into the game.

Alkali's high skill ceiling makes it great for speedrun challenges. This does come at the cost of beginner friendliness, though. Some players will find it hard to get into the game due to its high difficulty curve. Do note that development is still very early and in the Alpha stages. Thus, expect plenty of things to change gameplay-wise along with the various bug fixes that will come.

Fast-paced and a good challenge

If you're a fan of fast-paced and challenging platforming games and you're looking for something new to try, check Alkali out. The premise is unique and makes for interesting gameplay and there are plenty of levels to play through. You even get a level editor to tinker around in to create your own obstacle course. Recommended.