Billed by creator, The Matte Black Studio, as the world’s first ‘Celestoidvania’, it’s easy see where the influences come into play when constructing that unique portmanteau for the game LUCID, which is currently seeking funds on Kickstarter.

It’s a triumvirate of video game series that provide the main inspiration for 2D action-adventure RPG LUCID, then: both the Metroid and Castlevania titles, but also indie darling, the wonderful – yet maddeningly challenging, for me at least – Celeste.

However, the sources of inspiration stretch even further – and there’s at least one surprising influence in there, in the form of Doom.

When I reached out to creator Eric at The Matte Black Studio, not only did they provide me with a handy visual guide to the games that inspired them, but they also shared an absolute treasure trove of information on LUCID, its setting and its characters.

So I’ll let them explain the basis of the game in their own words:

“After the Great Fall and the destruction of the Lucid Giant, the world of Aedyn has succumbed to corruption.

Only the dwindling Sentinels are left to guard a fragile balance.

As Oenn, you will explore this shattered world and fulfill a solemn promise. Ascend the frigid Onyx Ridge, traverse the claustrophobic Crystal Caverns, or descend into the dark from the gloom of Welltown.

Meet an eclectic cast of characters, friend and foe alike, each with their own stories and quests. Combat a vast array of enemies and challenging bosses.

Explore detailed levels and dungeons full of secrets and collectables to entice you off the beaten path.

Discover your own legend, and see the world through lucid eyes.”

That covers the game’s backstory and setting, but what about the gameplay? Well, once more Eric at Matte Black Studio was on hand to cover that too!

“LUCID features classic precision platforming action, inspired by the greats, rendered in beautiful pixel art. Strike Lanterns and enemies to chain your abilities together and reach greater heights. Evolve your moveset and combat potential with 5 different Crystal Arts.

Explore a vast, interconnected and lore-rich world full of mystery and danger. Reach each area’s own unique dungeon that tests your mastery of the Crystal Arts. Choose your own path and decide which level to attempt next.

Meet a huge cast of characters, from the friendly to the not-so-friendly. Face off against an enormous roster of dangerous foes and formidable bosses. Take in gorgeous pixel art landscapes with detailed parallax backgrounds give a true sense of depth and immersion.”

Once more showing a deep passion for – and knowledge of – a diverse range of classic games, the game’s music is also inspired by some absolutely iconic titles, as the creators divulged: “The LUCID soundtrack is composed by Euna Kho and Andrew Black, and its influence ranges from the chill beats of DK Country, to the pulse pounding flow state of Mega Man X and DOOM 2016.”

It all looks and sounds incredibly promising – and you can back LUCID at the Kickstarter page right now.

Having launched the Kickstarter campaign on the 18th of September, the crowdfunding effort is currently speeding towards its target – and, with a month to go, looks set to sail past the required amount!

You can follow creators The Matte Black Studio on Twitter here, for further insight into the game and the Kickstarter campaign’s progress.

Finally, check out the fantastic trailer for LUCID below: