WoodRunner Games, an indie studio based in Québec, Canada, has officially unveiled a new playable demo for Croak, its beautifully hand-drawn 2D action-adventure platformer. Released alongside a fresh trailer for the Quebec Steam Sale Event, the demo gives players their first taste of a whimsical yet challenging journey through a twisted carnival known as the Feast Fair.
Animated by artists who previously worked on Cuphead, Croak pairs expressive, frame-by-frame animation with fast-paced, momentum-driven platforming. The result is a vibrant world that blends playful charm with demanding precision.
A Frog Prince With a Serious Leap
Players step into the webbed feet of an unexpectedly agile frog prince, armed with little more than royal determination—and a remarkably versatile tongue. Movement is the heart of Croak. Using tongue-based grappling mechanics, players can bounce, swing, and launch themselves through environments with pinball-like momentum. Every jump and grapple feels deliberate, rewarding skillful timing and mastery.
The demo focuses on the game’s first major region, a sprawling swamp overtaken by the Witch’s eerie carnival. Across five levels—including a Ferris Wheel challenge and a chaotic Beaver boss fight—players will experience precision platforming, hidden secrets, dynamic puzzles, and tightly designed encounters. A hidden high-difficulty stage can also be unlocked for those looking to push their skills further.4
A World of Whimsy and Challenge
The Feast Fair is only the beginning. The full game promises more than 1,000 rooms spread across diverse biomes, from snowy peaks to shadowy underground areas. Each region introduces its own environmental mechanics, mini-games, and eccentric characters, all brought to life with fluid, hand-drawn animation inspired by classic artistry.
Boss fights lean into the game’s playful absurdity. Expect over-the-top encounters like a BMX-riding beaver or an illusionist bat, each demanding clever use of tongue-grappling movement to dodge, reposition, and “boop” your way to victory.
Designed for Replayability
Beyond its main levels and cinematic boss encounters, Croak will feature unlockable high-difficulty stages built for players chasing mastery. Achievements reward exploration, coin collecting, and speed-based strategies, encouraging repeat runs and optimization. The demo alone offers 11 Gold Medals to earn, giving completionists plenty to chew on.
With its striking animation, inventive movement mechanics, and a demo packed with content, Croak is shaping up to be a platformer worth keeping an eye on. Players can jump into the demo now and explore the first region ahead of the game’s full release.