Get ready to swap your expectations—Ruffy and the Riverside is bringing a fresh twist to the 3D platformer genre when it launches on June 26, 2025. Developed by German indie studio Zockrates Laboratories and published by Phiphen Games, this visually charming and mechanically inventive game is heading to PC (Steam and Epic Games Store), PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch.
Platforming With a Twist – Literally
At the heart of Ruffy and the Riverside is the SWAP mechanic, a unique system that allows players to copy and paste environmental textures to solve puzzles and reshape the game world in real time. That lava pit? Turn it into ice. That mossy wall? Swap it into vines and climb. The creative possibilities give every area a sense of experimentation and freedom that makes exploration genuinely rewarding.
Beyond clever puzzles, the game’s open world is bursting with personality. You can ride hay bales like makeshift hoverboards, discover hidden nooks packed with collectables, and lend a hand to Riverside’s eclectic residents across seven uniquely themed regions.
Critical Buzz Is Already Strong
Even before its official release, Ruffy and the Riverside is catching the attention of critics:
“It’s beautiful, original, and has a killer soundtrack to boot!” – Forbes
“A distinctly modern twist on a classic format… already shaping up to be one of the best platformers of 2025.” – GamesRadar
“SWAP is one of those genius yet simple ideas that makes a game truly stand out.” – Eurogamer
“Might be one of this year’s best platformers.” – PC Gamer
You can even check out Nintendo’s official YouTube channel, where the release date was confirmed, and wishlist the game now on the Nintendo eShop.
What to Expect in Ruffy’s World
Ruffy and the Riverside blends classic platforming with modern mechanics, balancing creative freedom and tight gameplay across both 3D and 2D levels. That’s right—when Ruffy’s open-world adventure hits a wall, he dives into side-scrolling sections packed with new puzzles and dangers that put the SWAP mechanic to clever use.
Along the way, you’ll collect coins, butterflies, and mysterious Etoi creatures while customizing the environment with your own textures using “dreamstones.” Add in a cast of quirky characters, stylish traversal tricks, and magical side quests, and you’ve got an indie gem in the making.
Key Features:
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SWAP Mechanic – Copy and paste textures to solve puzzles and reshape the world.
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Open-World Exploration – Skate, jump, and ride across seven colorful regions.
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2D & 3D Gameplay – Blend of platforming styles keeps things fresh.
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Custom Textures – Use dreamstones to personalize the world.
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Side Quests & Characters – Help a cast of memorable NPCs across Riverside.
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Tons of Collectables – From butterflies to coins to adorable Etoi creatures.
With its unique mechanics, hand-drawn visuals, and whimsical vibe, Ruffy and the Riverside could be a standout title in the 2025 platformer lineup. Keep your eyes on this one—Ruffy’s ready to leap into your heart (and your backlog).