VVVVVV

VVVVVV is a 2010 puzzle-platformer developed by Terry Cavanagh, an Irish independent designer. Its defining trick is that you cannot jump; instead you flip gravity to fall up or down at will.

Playing as Captain Viridian, you explore a retro, single-screen world to rescue a scattered crew from a strange dimension, using gravity reversal to navigate spike-filled rooms and tricky screen-to-screen challenges, including gauntlets with playful names. The minimalist Commodore 64-inspired visuals, distinct area themes, and a famously catchy chiptune soundtrack by Magnus Palsson gave it a sharp, focused identity. Optional collectible trinkets and brutal time-trial and no-death modes rewarded skilled players, and its clever single-mechanic design made it a cult favorite of the early indie scene.

It has been ported to many platforms including handhelds, later had its source code released to the public, and Cavanagh went on to create other acclaimed minimalist games such as Super Hexagon.