Sci-Fi Action Platformer ChainStaff Locks in April 8 Release on PC and Consoles

The 2D action platformer ChainStaff is set to launch on April 8 for PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One & Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam, as developer Mommy’s Best Games confirms pre-orders are now live across console platforms.

Developed by veteran designer Nathan Fouts, ChainStaff channels the intensity of classic action platformers through a hyper-stylized ’80s sci-fi lens, blending fast-paced combat, precision platforming, and a transforming grappling hook at the center of its design. Players take control of a mutated hero with an alien parasite fused to their head, wielding the ChainStaff, a versatile weapon that seamlessly shifts between spear, shield, grappling hook, and traversal tool with a single button press.

The game’s moment-to-moment action revolves around mastering this weapon across a hand-crafted campaign filled with grotesque enemies and towering boss encounters. Every creature has been warped by invading Star Spores, forcing players to constantly rethink how they approach combat and movement. Boss fights in particular emphasize experimentation, asking players to dismantle massive foes by exploiting their anatomy and the ChainStaff’s many forms.

Progression is shaped by meaningful choices rather than simple stat upgrades. Throughout the journey, stranded soldiers can be rescued or consumed, with each decision unlocking different upgrades across branching paths and ultimately influencing one of several possible endings. This risk-reward structure encourages replayability, further reinforced by New Game+ and persistent upgrades.

Visually, ChainStaff embraces bold pixel art inspired by classic heavy metal album covers, paired with rotoscoped animation and a pounding soundtrack composed by Deon van Heerden, known for his work on Broforce. The result is a compact but intense 4–6 hour adventure that leans into spectacle, momentum, and mechanical depth without overstaying its welcome.

ChainStaff launches April 8 on PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One & Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam, with console pre-orders available now.