Here’s a new indie game that has a lot of explaining to do. GooNECT√2 is now available on PC and Switch and is a co-op game where you move two characters around but they always hold their hands together.
Two players, played online with random matchmaking available, will need to navigate obstacle course-style levels all while remembering that the duo can only go as far as their stretchy arms can muster. Think of it like Chained Together, or that one bit in Split Fiction, but with a more friendlier, cosier theming. Plus, the levels look like obstacle courses from Fall Guys.
GooNECT√2 is also a sequel. The original game, the more sensibly titled Goonect, is developed by Bandai Namco as an indie title under the GYAAR Studio.
GYAAR Studio has produced a bunch of indie-scaled games that has that indie spirit (despite being backed by a major AAA games company) though most of its titles are only published exclusively in Japan. That should explain why you might not have come across any of their titles if you’re based outside of Japan.
Unlike past GYAAR Studio games, GooNECT√2, however, is being released worldwide. The game is being published by Japan-based indie publishers Phoenixx and Amber Games.
GooNECT√2 (which is presumably pronounced as “Goonect 2” rather than “Goonect square root of two”) expands on it predecessor by having procedurally-generated levels across 8 levels of difficulty, the ability to save and share said levels, character customisation, the ability to pick your music of choice, and last but not least, offline mode so you can play couch co-op or even wilder, control two characters at once ala The Adventures Of Cookie & Cream.
GooNECT√2 will be out on May 21 for PC (Steam) and Nintendo Switch.