Harpy's Curse

About

Harpy's Curse is a retro-inspired Metroidvania set in a treacherous labyrinth. As a winged predator, you navigate shifting corridors filled with traps and enemies, collecting feathers and artifacts to unlock new abilities. The game blends fast platforming with exploratory backtracking, requiring you to master flight mechanics and timing to survive bone-chip traps and hostile creatures. Each section of the maze hides secrets behind environmental puzzles, with progression tied to defeating four keepers before challenging the Sphinx who banished you. Developed by Todd Furmanski and published by AtariAge, the game stands out for its tight control scheme and dense level design. The labyrinth’s mix of rock, brick, and bone creates varied terrain that feels distinct to cross, while the harpy’s agility adds flair to combat and movement. Though short by modern standards, its 4-hour runtime packs satisfying challenges that reward precise play. Community reviews on AtariAge highlight its nostalgic charm and how it modernizes Metroidvania staples within a 8-bit framework.

Storyline

You are a harpy. Swift of wing and vicious in nature. Banished to a deadly labyrinth, you are tasked with defeating the four keepers of the maze - only then can you face the Great Sphinx who exiled you here. The labyrinth contains legendary artifacts - feathers of legendary birds and beasts that might aid you. Great power might be found here, but you truly wish for escape, and the only way ou is through the machinations of the Sphinx.