Scary Girl stands as a side-scrolling action platformer on PC that blends precise movement with combat in surreal environments. Players step into the role of Scarygirl, a resilient young character equipped with a tentacle arm, as she explores layered worlds filled with platforming challenges and enemy encounters.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around navigating seamless transitions between 2D side-view sections and 3D spatial elements. Scarygirl jumps across platforms, swings with her tentacle, and engages in close-range combat against various creatures. Progression involves collecting resources to buy upgrades at specific points, expanding her move set beyond basic strikes. New abilities include the Anaconda Squeeze for grappling and crushing foes, Morph Tendrils for versatile attacks, and attachments like the Rage Hook that alter combat options. Secrets scattered throughout levels reward exploration, encouraging players to revisit areas after gaining new tools. The system builds Scarygirl from a basic fighter into a more capable character through targeted purchases rather than random loot.
Game Modes
Single-player mode forms the primary experience, allowing full control over Scarygirl as she advances through the campaign at her own pace. Co-operative play supports a second participant on the same system, where one handles Scarygirl while the other directs Bunniguru, a giant kung-fu rabbit. The pair can combine efforts for joint special moves that clear obstacles or defeat tougher enemies more efficiently. This offline co-op activates at any time during a session without requiring online connectivity or additional setup beyond local controllers.
Story and Setting
The narrative follows Scarygirl after her adoption by a giant intelligent octopus, centering on her quest to identify the mysterious man who appears in her dreams. This storyline operates as an independent chapter, separate from related graphic novels or other media projects. Worlds feature magical, colorful landscapes populated by fantastical creatures that serve both as threats and environmental elements. The tale emphasizes Scarygirl's independence and resourcefulness rather than positioning her as a character in need of rescue.
Art and Design
Visuals draw from the established style of the Scarygirl property, with surreal landscapes and creature designs crafted by an award-winning artist. Levels maintain a vibrant palette across varied biomes, creating a consistent aesthetic that supports both platforming precision and combat clarity. The mix of 2D and 3D presentation keeps focus on the action plane while adding depth through background and foreground details.
Is It Worth Playing?
Scary Girl suits players who enjoy action platformers with upgrade-driven combat and local co-op options. Its 2012 release means it runs on older hardware specifications, including Windows XP through 7 with modest processor and graphics requirements. Steam user reviews rate the title as Mostly Positive, with 73 percent approval from 71 total reviews. The experience appeals most to those drawn to its distinctive art direction and straightforward progression through single-player or shared sessions. Availability remains limited to the original PC version without ongoing seasonal content or major patches in recent years.
