Emilie in Paris Debuts on Steam for PC and Linux
- Vernepixel Lab has released The Adventures of Emilie in Paris, a 2D platformer inspired by 1990s classics and built with modern animation techniques.
- The game invites players to explore a stylized version of Paris through precise platforming, varied environments and light‑hearted humor.
- Its launch on Steam includes multiple difficulty options, updated features and support for both PC and Linux.
A Modern Take on Classic 2D Platforming
Vernepixel Lab has officially launched The Adventures of Emilie in Paris, presenting a platformer that blends retro sensibilities with contemporary design. The game follows Emilie as she navigates a reimagined Paris, moving from Haussmannian rooftops to underground catacombs through fluid, rotoscope‑inspired animations. Movement options include climbing drainpipes for rooftop parkour, using an umbrella for combat and cushioning falls, and engaging in occasional shoot‑’em‑up sequences. These mechanics aim to create a familiar yet distinct experience that pays homage to 1990s platformers while introducing new ideas.
The developers focused on precision and readability, ensuring that traps, enemies and platforming challenges remain clear even in visually dense environments. A score and best‑score loop encourages replayability, supported by hidden passages and optional challenges. Difficulty settings range from Very Easy to Hard, offering between three and twelve lives depending on the chosen mode. The art direction mixes elegance with depictions of everyday Paris, avoiding overly romanticized portrayals.
Emilie’s animation work stands out due to the use of rotoscoping techniques. Running, jumping and climbing sequences were created by referencing real movements, resulting in smoother transitions and more natural motion. The animation process for the heroine alone required three months of dedicated work. This attention to detail contributes to the game’s distinctive visual identity.
Exploring a Stylized and Varied Paris
Players can expect a wide range of environments throughout the game. Exterior levels include upscale districts and areas with aging buildings, while interior stages take place in the metro, sewers and catacombs. Atmospheric variations such as nighttime scenes, snowy weather and aerial sections add further diversity. These settings aim to present both the polished and less glamorous sides of Paris.
Humor plays a consistent role in the experience, with references to a well‑known series that contrasts idealized Paris with more grounded depictions. Trash cans, broken windows and other everyday details appear alongside iconic locations like Place Vendôme. The developers included these elements to create a more authentic and playful representation of the city. Players familiar with Paris or the referenced series may notice additional comedic touches.
Set featured imageGameplay variety extends beyond platforming. Shoot‑’em‑up interludes appear throughout the adventure, offering brief shifts in pacing. Secrets and optional challenges encourage multiple playthroughs, especially for players seeking higher scores. The game also supports creator monetization, allowing streaming and VOD content without restrictions.
Post‑Launch Updates and Availability
Since release, updates 1.0.6 and 1.0.7 have introduced several improvements. A new Very Easy difficulty mode was added, along with refinements to the game’s menus. Contextual help now appears in early levels, including a guidance bubble near a lamppost in Level 1. Boss encounters were adjusted with reduced firing speeds, and traps were made clearer to improve readability.
Level design changes also targeted smoother progression. Rooftop sections were simplified to make ascents more intuitive, and decorative elements were added to enhance visual clarity. Bug fixes addressed various minor issues reported by early players. These updates aim to refine the overall experience without altering the core gameplay.
The game is available on Steam for PC and Linux under AppID 4028870. It is priced at €14.79, though regional variations may apply, and a free demo is offered for those who want to try it first. Interface languages include English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Chinese and Portuguese. The title was developed using the Godot Engine.
Rotoscoping, the animation technique used for Emilie’s movements, has a long history in both film and games. Early titles like Prince of Persia and Another World relied heavily on the method to achieve lifelike motion long before modern motion capture existed. Its use in The Adventures of Emilie in Paris reflects a growing trend among indie developers to revisit traditional techniques for stylistic impact. This approach often results in animations that feel both nostalgic and contemporary.
