In the fast-paced world of indie development, “moving fast” usually means cutting corners. But for the three-person UK team at FOXBOY Productions, the last six months have been a masterclass in focused, high-octane ambition.
Without a massive studio infrastructure or a publisher’s safety net, the team has just unveiled a fully playable vertical slice of their debut title, Secrets of the Burrow: Vixoria’s Quest. This 3D platformer isn’t just a nostalgic nod to the golden age of the genre—it’s a bold attempt to rewrite its mechanical DNA.
Two Heroes, One Seamless Adventure
At the heart of Vixoria’s Quest is the relationship between the rebellious Princess Vixoria and the begrudgingly loyal Sir Foxalot. While many games treat secondary characters as mere “AI luggage,” FOXBOY has implemented a seamless character-switching system that keeps both heroes relevant at all times.
Key Traversal Features:
- Cooperative AI Parkour: When you aren’t controlling one character, they don’t just stand around. The AI follows through complex parkour sequences with fluid, acrobatic intelligence.
- Distinct Skillsets: Vixoria leads the way with agile, puzzle-solving finesse, while Foxalot brings the heavy-hitting utility needed to survive the fallen Kingdom of Sylvandell.
- The “Disney” Aesthetic: Visually, the game feels like a 1990s animated classic brought to life in Unreal Engine 5.6, featuring painterly environments that range from waterfall basins to crystalline labyrinths.
The RPM System: Combat with Momentum
The standout feature of the vertical slice—and perhaps the game’s “X-factor”—is the RPM Combat System. FOXBOY is pitching this as a “signature” mechanic, unlike anything currently seen in 3D platforming.
“Combat in Secrets of the Burrow revolves around the innovative RPM system, where maintaining momentum is everything.”
Inspired by the tension of bullet-hell design, the RPM system requires players to dodge waves of projectiles and build kinetic energy through movement. As Sir Foxalot, you unleash a whirlwind spinning attack. The goal? Build your “RPM” to a fever pitch. If you collide with an obstacle or mistime a move, you lose that momentum. It’s a rhythmic, high-stakes loop of evasion and release that rewards mastery without alienating newcomers.
The Road to 2027
The journey from a three-person concept to a standout showcase at Paris Games Week is no small feat. Led by Creative Director Kevin Asla, Programmer Elliot Atkins-Turkish, and Animator Alex Thapar, the team has managed to condense years of “big studio” polish into a six-month development sprint.
With a target release window of 2027 for PC and consoles, Secrets of the Burrow: Vixoria’s Quest is already proving that a clear vision and a bit of “woodland mischief” can go a long way.
Want to see it in action? You can already find playtest walkthroughs appearing online, or head over to Steam to add this whimsical adventure to your wishlist.
For the latest indie spotlights and deep dives into the UK dev scene, stay tuned to TechMash.
Find out more here – https://s.team/a/3729660
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