# Retro-Inspired Indie Games The Messenger is a Ninja Gaiden-Esque Adventure For Modern Gamers By Justin Lam | Published 2018-03-27 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-messenger References: [venturebeat](https://venturebeat.com/2018/03/22/the-messenger-is-a-ninja-gaiden-homage-that-is-more-than-it-appears/) & [store.steampowered](http://store.steampowered.com/app/764790/The__Messenger/) The Messenger is an upcoming retro-action platformer that manages to capture the intensity and magic of 8-bit classics like Mega Man and Castlevania. Developed by Quebec-based studio Sabotage, The Messenger takes heavy inspiration from the Ninja Gaiden series and utilizes similar aesthetics with modern designs. The game is set to release on the [Nintendo](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/riki-8bit-game-collection) [Switch](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vesper-zero-light-edition) and PC, and was even part of Nintendo's Nindies presentation at GDC 2018. The game will feel instantly farmiliar to most gamers with an 8-bit background, thanks to its tight platforming and [beautiful pixel graphics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nes-version), but will also engage new gamers with amazing level design and non-linear gameplay. Similar to Ninja Gaiden, players can attack with a short range sword and easily cling onto walls. However, movement does deviate from The Messenger's inspiration as it adds a level of complexity to platforming. The non-linear aspect allows players to enter a future world, denoted by a change to 16-bit graphics, that functions as a fun take on the Light World/Dark World mechanic seen in classic games like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.2/10 - Popularity: 54% | Activity: 35% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/games) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Retro-inspired Indie Games:** Indie game developers are tapping into nostalgia for classic games by creating modern versions with new twists. - **Modernizing Classic Game Designs:** Game designers are creating new games that mimic the gameplay and aesthetics of classic games, but with modern design elements. - **Non-linear Gameplay in Classic-style Games:** New games are incorporating non-linear elements into classic-style gameplay, offering players more choice and control over their gaming experience. ### Where This Applies - **Video Game Development:** Independent game studios have an opportunity to capitalize on the nostalgia for classic games by creating new games that tap into that nostalgia while adding new and innovative elements. - **PC Gaming:** With the rise of digital distribution platforms like Steam, PC gaming has become a popular platform for indie game developers to release their games and reach a large audience. - **Console Gaming:** Major console manufacturers like Nintendo provide a platform for independent game studios to showcase their work and reach a wider audience, creating opportunities for new and unique gaming experiences. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Nostalgic Game Collections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/riki-8bit-game-collection.md) - [Forced-Scroll Platform Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/running-on-magic.md) - [Side-Scrolling Platformers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vesper-zero-light-edition.md) - [Multi-Dimensional Metroidvania Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cookie-cutter-1.md) - [Mysterious Platformer Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/elypse.md) - [Haunting Gaming Adventures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hauntii-xbox-game.md) - [Repeating Action Platformer Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rogue-prince-of-persia.md) - [80s-Inspired Game Launches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/storm-lancers.md) - [Skill-Rewarding Action Games](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/blades-of-fire.md)