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About Moonbrella
Moonbrella is a 2D Metroidvania developed by Jett Williams, released on December 31, 2026. It blends platforming and exploration on an abandoned planet with a focus on unique movement mechanics. The game eschews a traditional jump button, requiring players to master an umbrella-based system for traversal. Set in a desolate, alien environment, you upgrade your umbrella to access new areas and ascend toward the moon. The minimalist design and challenging controls define its indie spirit. It runs on PC, Linux, and Mac with single-player only. The game’s elevator pitch: a punishing but rewarding Metroidvania that rethinks how you move.
Gameplay
Moonbrella revolves around precise umbrella-based movement. You tilt, dash, and glide to navigate vertical and horizontal spaces, with upgrades unlocking new maneuvers like double jumps and wall dashes. Combat is minimal, focusing on dodging hazards rather than attacking. Each session involves backtracking to access previously unreachable zones, a hallmark of the genre. The lack of a jump button forces players to adapt to momentum-driven controls, which take time to master. Boss battles test your mastery of timing and trajectory. Sessions often end with frustration or small victories as you unlock new tools. The game’s pacing is deliberate, rewarding patience and experimentation.
What Players Think
Moonbrella holds a 8.2/10 on PlayPile, with 65% of players completing it. Average playtime is 12 hours, but 30% abandon it within 2 hours. Community moods split between “Frustrating but Fair” (45%) and “Eerie Beauty” (30%). Critics praise its original mechanics but note a steep learning curve. One review reads, “The umbrella system is genius once you get it, just don’t expect a smooth ride.” Achievement completion is 68% (30 total), with most players hitting 15. Price hasn’t affected retention; 80% who buy it finish at least 20% of the game.
PlayPile's Take
Moonbrella is for players who enjoy punishing but fair Metroidvanias and don’t mind spending hours on controls. At $20, it’s a low-risk purchase if you’ve got patience. The 30 achievements offer solid replay value, though completion is tough. It’s not for casual gamers or those who hate trial-and-error mechanics. Stick with it, though, it’s a niche gem with a distinct identity.
Game Modes
Single player
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