Atmospheric action adventure game CALX adds PS5, Xbox Series, and Switch versions; PC demo now available

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I’m so excited to hear that CALX, the game formerly known as XTAL, is coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and Switch! It was already announced for PC, and now we’ll be able to play it on consoles too. The best part? A demo is available right now on Steam, so I’m downloading it immediately!

This demo allows players to try out the beginning of the game. It includes a complete tutorial that teaches you how to play, and lets you explore the Canyon, which is the first area of the game. It should take around an hour to finish.

Here is an overview of the game, via its Steam page:

About

I’m so excited about CALX! It’s a beautiful 3D action adventure game with a really unique vibe, clearly inspired by classic sci-fi art. You get to explore this incredible planet called Syro, full of huge landscapes, amazing crystal formations, and the remnants of some really old tech. The big mystery is what happened to the Quoth civilization and this thing called the WARP – and the game actually shows you the story as you explore, instead of just telling it. It feels like the environment itself is guiding you and revealing secrets!

The game alternates between calm and intense action, creating a flowing rhythm similar to ocean waves – periods of quiet thought followed by bursts of energetic combat. The art and music are deeply connected; the visuals influence the sound, and the music, in turn, enhances the artwork.

You’re the only person on the planet Syro, but it doesn’t feel isolating. You’re a small part of a huge, enigmatic world, and exploring these lost locations has a peaceful, slightly sad beauty to it.

Movement Opens the World

You’ll primarily move through the world by jumping, dashing through the air, floating, and using a grappling hook to reach different places. As you unlock new abilities, more of the world will become accessible. Don’t forget to go back to areas you’ve already explored – you might find new routes and secrets!

As you journey through the world, its history unfolds. Ancient ruins hide secrets, and investigations reveal intriguing puzzles. The landscape itself tells tales of what happened before.

Contemplative, With Meaningful Combat

Your AI partner, AFX, accompanies you on your journey and becomes more powerful as you advance. Battles combine close-combat fighting with shooting. Mastering the timing of your dodges will give you an edge in combat.

As you play, you’ll find upgrades that make you better at fighting and moving. Explore the ruins to discover new weapons, each of which offers a different way to battle.

Winning fights depends on how skillfully you move, not just how quickly you strike. Think of battlegrounds as movement challenges – being able to move well is just as important as the weapons you use.

Different Zones, Different Moods

Every location in the game has a unique atmosphere. Some areas are peaceful and serene, while others feel vibrant and mysterious. The game appreciates both quiet exploration and exciting action.

You get better equipment by discovering old tech. These improvements affect how you navigate and interact with the game world. You’re free to explore any area you choose, in any order.

CALX is about 10 to 15 hours long. Reminiscent of classic action adventure games.

Key Features

  • Atmospheric Exploration on Planet Syro – Vast landscapes filled with crystal structures and ancient tech shaped by visionary science-fiction art.
  • Movement as Your Main Tool – Double jump, aerial dash, levitate, and grappling hook mechanics that open new paths as you progress.
  • Contemplative Pacing – A game that values stillness and observation as much as action.
  • Interconnected World Design – Gain new abilities to unlock hidden areas and discover secrets in places you’ve already visited.
  • Combat Meets Mobility – Blend melee strikes with AFX’s ranged shots. Perfect dodges for tactical advantages.
  • Environmental Storytelling – The ruins and landscape reveal what happened, with minimal dialogue and maximum atmosphere.
  • Meaningful Upgrades – Collect remnants of ancient technology to enhance both combat and movement abilities.
  • Art and Music in Tandem – Mesmerizing visuals shape the soundscape; music breathes life back into the art.

Watch a new trailer below.

Demo Trailer

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2026-02-19 18:32