Atmospheric Metroidvania BEING AND BECOMING Reveals 2026 Release Window and New Steam Playtest

Developed by Ichthys and published by CRITICAL REFLEX, Being and Becoming is an upcoming pixel-art metroidvania that blends exploration, combat, and storytelling in a richly atmospheric world. Alongside the announcement of a 2026 release window, the studio has released a new open playtest on Steam, allowing players to experience the game’s intro, explore multiple locations, engage with a variety of weapons and abilities, and face two epic bosses.

Players assume the role of a would-be martyr, rescued from a watery grave and cast into the Collective Dream. Within this surreal world, they must defy the prophecy of The Word, confront corrupted entities, and acquire new powers from those who came before. The deeper players descend into the Collective Dream, the more perilous the environment becomes, challenging them to balance exploration with combat and survival.

The open playtest offers a first look at the game’s mechanics, letting players experiment with weapon combinations, abilities, and tactics while encountering a wide variety of enemies. Each boss encounter emphasizes strategy and personality, supported by dozens of unique animations and interactive environments.

Set across a vast, interconnected world, Being and Becoming combines gorgeous handcrafted pixel-art with a dynamic, atmospheric soundtrack and fully voiced characters, creating a cohesive and immersive experience. Players explore hauntingly beautiful and grotesque locales, uncover secrets, and gradually expand their arsenal while navigating a world where every discovery has consequence.