Return of the SLIMEPIRES! is a free adventure game made by an independent developer named Sophie Houlden. In this 2D action platformer, players take on the role of one of the last remaining survivors of humanity after it was hit by a horde of infectious slime-like creatures.

Similar to Poom, Return of the SLIMEPIRES! is a game created using the fantasy game console and development platform, PICO-8. This side-scroller features retro 8-bit pixel graphics and simple controls for its gameplay. It's available as an HTML5-based web game or can be installed directly on desktop systems.

Escape the slime horde

Return of the SLIMEPIRES! takes place in the distant future when the world has been struck by a mysterious disease brought about by a horde of slime-like creatures called the Slimepires. You awake inside Bunker 4103, the last haven for humanity's last survivors. However, it too has also been invaded, and you now must make your way to the bunker's safe room to survive.

You can play this adventure game using different control input methods. The first is that you can do so using your keyboard with up to two players at the same time. Alternatively, you can use a compatible joystick if you have one for a more immersive and authentic gameplay experience. Regardless of which one you choose, both work quite well and are equally responsive.

While it's completely free to play, you can opt to pay a small donation that will go toward supporting its developer. If you do so, you'll receive some extra goodies, including illustrations of the maps featured in the game and a comprehensive manual detailing the various unlockable endings. You even get a 2-hour long behind-the-scenes video of the game's development—plenty of added stuff for the small amount you will pay.

Escape or be assimilated

The PICO-8 fantasy console is a great development platform, and Return of the SLIMEPIRES! is a fine example of the kind of game that can be made with it. It features charming pixel graphics, intuitive controls, and gameplay that is simple, yet fun to play. The multiple unlockable endings add to its replayability and appeal, too. If you have some time to spare, give this a try.