Friday, July 11, 2025

New 2D Metroidvania Inspired By Polynesian Mythology, Maui The Shapeshifter, Revealed At Gamescom

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Maui the Shapeshifter, a gorgeous 2D hand-drawn Metroidvania based on the titular shapeshifting Polynesian demigod from Play on Worlds (Ebenezer and the Invisible World), swims ashore with its first trailer, as revealed during the Future Games Show at Gamescom.

Master Maui’s legendary shapeshifting powers to save the wildlife of a Polynesian island from the corrupt force of Cemyk, a nefarious creature from another world. Transform into majestic animals with the help of spirit Aumakua and wield Maui’s magic fish hook while exploring a naturally enchanted island brimming with secrets, challenges, and obstacles.

Shapeshift into a Hoary Bat to reach new heights, slide down hills while blocking dangerous projectiles as a Green Sea Turtle, or glide across great distances as a Kamehameha Butterfly. Creatively channel the power of incredible animals to drive out the mutated wildlife introduced to the island by Cemyk.

Maui the Shapeshifter animatic

Unleash Maui’s iconic hook to manipulate the environment, solve puzzles, and create new paths across the island. Upgrade the fish hook to enhance strength, range, and other stats. Scour land and ocean to discover new and rare equipable powers through a robust slot system.

Traverse a sprawling Metroidvania map with rich and diverse biomes, including jungles, volcanoes, mountains, beaches, and even the legendary Menehune village. Go beyond the natural realm, where a hidden spiritual world awaits. Interact with NPCs across the island–some eager to help, others…not so much. Explore and uncover the secrets of the awe-inspiring island paradise all rendered in breathtaking hand-drawn art teeming with vibrant hues.

Maui the Shapeshifter screenshot

“After spending so much time in the chilly realm of Ebenezer and the Invisible World, we wanted to create a colorful experience in a different environment while staying true to our love for Metroidvanias,” said Carlos Martin, Founder of Play on Worlds. “With Maui the Shapeshifter, we hope Metroidvania fans will follow us onto the island and take on a whole new adventure.”

Maui the Shapeshifter will be available on PC via Steam. For more information, visit the game’s official website, follow the team on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Reddit, and search for #MauitheShapeshifter on social media.

Images via Play on Worlds

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