In an innovative twist on the first-person shooter genre, Blendo Games is set to release Skin Deep, a game that promises to deliver an experience unlike any other. Scheduled for launch on Steam on April 30, this title has been in development for nearly seven years. Instead of following the conventional path of space operas or precision-based gameplay, Skin Deep introduces players to a futuristic cargo starship managed by an insurance company. The protagonist, a cryogenically frozen security officer, awakens amidst a pirate attack, leading to a chaotic blend of shooting, sneaking, and unique mechanics such as sneezing and emitting odors. This quirky game features elements of puzzles, comedy, and action, all presented in Blendo's signature blocky 3D style.

The setting of Skin Deep is a far-future cargo starship where the player assumes the role of a security officer who has been preserved in cryogenic sleep. Upon awakening due to a pirate raid, the officer must navigate through a series of challenges that involve both stealth and combat. One of the standout features of the game is its unconventional mechanics, including a sneeze function and a stink system. These elements add layers of unpredictability and humor, making each encounter more engaging. For instance, sneezing can occur when crawling through dusty vents, while certain actions can cause the player to emit odor clouds, alerting nearby pirates to their presence. Additionally, players will encounter cats dressed in cowboy outfits, adding a whimsical touch to the narrative.

The development of Skin Deep marks a significant shift for Blendo Games, an independent studio known for its award-winning titles like Quadrilateral Cowboy and Thirty Flights of Loving. While these games focused on clever puzzles and polygonal art styles, Skin Deep delves into first-person shooter mechanics for the first time. Studio leader Brendon Chung has always had a passion for FPS games, having started his career by customizing levels in classics like Doom and Quake. His desire to explore new possibilities within the genre has culminated in this ambitious project. Despite initial hopes to complete Skin Deep within four years, the game's development spanned almost seven years, reflecting the complexity and creativity involved in crafting such a unique experience.

Publishing under Annapurna Interactive, Skin Deep is now available for pre-order on Steam, with a demo released as part of the Steam Next Fest. The demo offers players a taste of the game's distinctive mechanics and atmosphere. As the release date approaches, fans of unconventional gaming experiences can look forward to diving into this peculiar yet captivating world. The game's combination of sci-fi elements, quirky mechanics, and humorous moments sets it apart from traditional shooters, promising an unforgettable journey through space and beyond.