A new music-powered platformer has just been announced, and it’s turning heads with its mix of hand-drawn visuals, rhythmic gameplay, and steampunk energy. LavaLoop, developed by Louis Rigaud, is a fast-paced 2D shooter/platformer heading to PC via Steam in 2026.
Set in a hand-crafted retrofuturistic world, LavaLoop puts players in the shoes of three rebellious musician-fighters. The mission? Take down waves of beat-driven bots and bring balance back to a planet pushed to the edge by machine-made noise. All of it plays out in quick bursts of action, designed to feel like high-energy concerts.
Arcade shooting meets musical chaos
LavaLoop draws inspiration from classic arcade games like Space Invaders, but gives everything a modern spin. Each enemy type moves and attacks based on its unique rhythm, turning every battle into a living soundtrack. There’s no need to follow strict beat patterns like in typical rhythm games, but paying attention to the tempo helps you dodge, shoot, and counter with flair.
You’ll be switching between three playable characters, each with their combat style and customising their gear using musical instruments, amps, and effects pedals. These aren’t just for show. The combinations create unique synergies, adding layers of strategy and chaos to each session.
The gameplay moves fast, with short levels that last two to three minutes each. But things never stay predictable. Every stage introduces new surprises, patterns, and pacing, making each run feel fresh.
A hand-drawn world with a story to tell
Visually, LavaLoop is built like a moving painting. Its steampunk setting blends Jules Verne-style machinery with the soft, dreamlike charm of Japanese animation. According to the game’s description, it also carries a deeper message: a story about how machines can overwhelm nature, and how music might just be the key to restoring balance.
LavaLoop key features
- Fast, arcade-style 2D shooting
- Rhythm-based enemy behaviour
- Three playable music-based fighters
- Customisable weapons with instruments and pedals
- Five detailed, hand-drawn worlds to explore
With its unique mix of rhythm, platforming, and storytelling, LavaLoop is shaping up to be one of the more creative indie titles coming to PC in 2026. It’s fun, it’s stylish, and it’s got just enough depth to keep players moving to the beat.
You can wishlist LavaLoop on Steam now and follow updates as it gets closer to launch. If you’re into arcade shooters, rhythm games, or just want something different, this might be one to watch.
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