Niche Games Spotlight – Only Up

Only Up

Only Up is a whimsical 3D platformer with no save states, no check points, just a big climb up a landscape of assorted stuff.

We’re not going to insult your intelligence by being coy, this game was clearly inspired by another title. But with actual platforming instead of janky mouse physics, this one might be a little easier to stick with.

Only Up is the latest speedrunning sensation after streamers have sunk in hours of climbing up train tracks, floating popcorn, and other weird obstacles only to fall back down to the slum-like city you begin the game in.

It’s straightforward, punishing, and has a few trolls and gaffs but we think the big takeaway here is people are desperate for more 3D platformers.

You can read the game’s Steam description below:

You are a young teenage Jackie from the ghetto who wants to get out of poverty and embark on a journey of learning about the world and yourself.

The world has definitely gone crazy, though it has never been normal, but maybe now is the chance for you. Crisis is a time for action and decisive steps…except it’s scary, because every step can set you back far.

Sometimes it is difficult to choose the right path, but do not be afraid, you can always repeat, we learn from mistakes.

Jackie is to learn that to get to a new place you must first make a jump and get off the ground, not knowing what will happen in the future…
A samurai has no goal, only a way, stoicism, patience and cunning will help you to reach the very top, but what awaits there – you never know…

Let’s go? Only Up!

“Only UP!” is inspired by the fairytale “Jack and the Beanstalk” and reminds some of a platformer. You’ll follow the same mythological path as Jack to achieve something more than just climbing to the very top.

Among the features of the game are the ability to slow down time and change the speed of your character to be as collected as possible when making an important step or jump. The game also contains hundreds of Easter eggs and various references.

Note that the game has no save points – the point is that each successive level raised the stakes in the game, the higher you climb the more painful to fall … but who has not fallen, he has not risen
This makes the game more tense and nervous, but that’s the point – to reach the top need to step over his fear and irritability, to calm down and slowly but surely move toward the goal – to the top! After all, the main thing is not the goal, but the path.

… The average passing time of the game 40 – 120 minutes And to infinity (!!! record less than 23 minutes!!) If you like dynamic shooters, or you’re the kind of person who gives up easily, think before you buy the game. But with a certain approach, the game can give you a sense of freedom and space.

… the journey of 10,000 steps begins with the first step …

Only Up is available now for Microsoft Windows (through Steam). It’s also 30% off if you’re reading this during the Steam Summer Sale 2023!


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A basement-dwelling ogre, Brandon's a fan of indie games and slice of life anime. Has too many games and not enough time.


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