Project AETHER: First Contact
Release date: Feb 24, 2020
Developers: Sleepy Spider Studios
Publishers: Sleepy Spider Studios
Genres: Action, Indie
Categories: Single-player, Steam Achievements, Full controller support, Steam Cloud, Steam Leaderboards, Family Sharing
Supported languages: English

As a threat from beyond looms over the solar system, Project AETHER is ready to deploy! Take control of the powerful AETHER mech in this rhythmic and tactical space shooter which combines classic arcade-style twin-stick action with stunning 3D environments and an engaging sci-fi story! Fight the alien threat across 9 unique levels, each with a powerful boss to defeat. Customize your mech's loadout with an assortment of powerful weapons, including the rapid fire assault rifle, high impact railgun, concentrated particle beam, and more. Choose your own approach to combat. Pick your foes off with ranged weapons, or get in close with devastating sword strikes. Adapt your tactics to the scenario at hand. Use the enemy forces to your advantage! As you damage foes they become primed for a powerful EMP blast, which will destroy them and any ships caught in the blast. Prove your prowess with boss rush and survival modes, and get your name on the leaderboard! Build and upload custom missions to the Steam Workshop, and play community levels! A range of difficulty modes allow hardcore players to experience the ultimate challenge, while providing a more forgiving experience for genre newcomers.

Press reviews: “A unique take on the bullet hell formula.” 4.5/5 – TheGamer “Project Aether proves to have solid gameplay. It’s impressive how fluid the movement feels while you’re zipping around the stage.” 8/10 – ReplayWire “If you are someone who loves the twin shooters and dodging bullets, Project AETHER has you covered.” 8/10 – Culture of Gaming