Zruce Adventures is an adventure title from indie developer Zruce Makes Games. Inspired by classic titles Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda, this 3D platformer, available in a demo version, takes you on an action-packed journey as you explore various locations on North Island, a fantasy world threatened by a robot takeover.

As stated in the title, Zruce Adventures follows a half-fox, half-wolf named Zruce who finds himself swept into danger after discovering that he is the chosen owner of a legendary sword. Like the indie title Komorebi, it features a customizable and fully voiced anthropomorphic cast.

Accidental hero

The premise of Zruce Adventures begins on a fateful day in 2030 when an experiment in a sector 12 research facility goes out of hand. From the rubble, though, something mysterious emerges, foreshadowing the danger that spills over into the present day. Years later on North Island, an 18-year-old folf called Zruce, who leads an ordinary life, stumbles upon a legendary sword, the Light Blade, after a meteorite crash.

This life-changing discovery that he alone can wield such a powerful sword thrusts him into a world-saving quest against a mysterious villain obsessed with mechanizing the world. His mission is to stop the spread of the robot menace and save the world from annihilation. Merging 3D platforming with open-world exploration and action sequences, the game lets you traverse diverse environments, unearth hidden items, and engage in combat. 

It features an open world dotted with linear segments, providing flexibility in your exploration. Plus, it comes with side quests that let you search every spot on the island for hidden treasures. Fully voiced and highly customizable with marvelous outfits, the characters can make you feel like you're one of them. The plot, however, echoes familiar tropes, off-putting to some. Anyhow, the game is still in the works.

Familiar territory

Drawing inspiration from established titles, Zruce Adventures positions itself as a 3D platformer worthy of fans' consideration. The story follows accidental, sword-wielding hero Zruce on a mission to save the world. While the familiar tropes offer a comfortable gameplay experience, it runs the risk of repelling some players who crave innovation. Still, the open world, side quests, and quirky details are interesting enough to take a crack at it.