Jumping Spider, a novel 2D platformer slated for release on PC, Mac, iOS, and Android, launched a Kickstarter campaign on November 13th. While still in the early stages of development, Jumping Spider already has a tight control system with fun, unique movement mechanics, from the ability to run on almost any surface at almost any angle to the highly addictive silk thread swinging mechanic. A playable demo with a sample tutorial level is available.

Creator Eric Newland got the idea for the game from a single paragraph in the Wikipedia article for “jumping spider.”

“In hunting, Salticidae also use their silk for a tether to enable them to reach prey that otherwise would be inaccessible. For example, by advancing towards the prey to less than the jumping distance, then retreating and leaping in an arc at the end of the tether line, many species can leap onto prey on vertical or even on inverted surfaces, which of course in a gravitational field would not be possible without such a tether.”

Not only is this hunting method possible with the current mechanics; it has its own command. Just double-click, drag, and release. Cid, the protagonist, will run to the click point, plant his silk line, and retreat to the release point, ready to pounce. The game is designed to be touchscreen friendly, so all of the actions can be done with touches (or a mouse on desktop machines).

Newland also has plans to expand the game with otherworldly abilities, such a using genetically and cybernetically enhanced arachnids and insects for enemies and using a powerup system to temporarily grant Cid new abilities, such as shooting a silk line like a certain well-known superhero.

The Kickstarter funds will help Newland purchase a better home computer, license software, and devote more time to the game. Backers can receive an “Exoskeleton Key” that will unlock the “full version” of the game on all platforms, including premium level packs and additional playable spiders with different abilities. Other rewards include opportunities to add messages, new enemies, or even their own faces to the game as scientists working for Araknotek, the evil corporation responsible for the mutant cyberbugs Cid must battle his way through. They can even receive a “swag bag” of Araknotek office supplies.

For more information visit the Kickstarter campaign page at
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/495847782/jumping-spider

The playable demo can be downloaded at
http://www.indiedb.com/games/jumping-spider/downloads