8 /10 0

Runbow stands as a critical darling in the indie platforming space, introducing a color-shifting mechanic that fundamentally changes level design and challenge progression. Developed by Canadian studio 13AM Games as their debut title, Runbow launched on Wii U in August 2015 before spreading across PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch. The game’s 82 Metacritic score reflects its success in balancing approachable party gameplay with genuine platforming depth. The central mechanic—where background color swipes determine which platforms exist—creates a rhythm-based platforming experience that feels fresh within the crowded 2D platformer landscape.

How to Play Runbow

Runbow’s accessibility belies its mechanical depth. New players grasp the controls within minutes, but mastering color-change timing requires practice and pattern recognition, creating a satisfying learning curve for both casual and experienced platformer fans.

1. Controls – Directional input, jump button, and double-jump with down-pound attack comprise the core scheme; motion controls unused; responds to both Joy-Con and Pro Controller
2. Progression – Adventure mode guides players through 140+ campaign levels across escalating difficulty; completed levels unlock character costumes and gallery content
3. Core Mechanic – Platforms appear and disappear as background colors shift; players must time jumps with color changes to navigate safely; later levels introduce complex color sequences
4. Essential Tips – Observe color-change rhythm before attempting levels; practice timing in easier stages; unlock guest characters through adventure completion for cosmetic variety

Who Should Play Runbow

Runbow appeals to both hardcore platformer enthusiasts and casual multiplayer fans. The game’s flexibility in difficulty scaling and mode variety means it accommodates skill levels from complete beginners to speedrunners seeking challenge.

• Platformer Fans – Those who love Hollow Knight, Celeste, or Super Meat Boy will appreciate the level design innovation and color-based puzzle solving
• Party Game Enthusiasts – Up to 9-player local multiplayer creates chaotic fun comparable to Smash Bros for accessible action games
• Indie Aficionados – The 50+ guest characters (Shovel Knight, CommanderVideo, Freedom Planet characters, etc.) reward indie game appreciation
• Skip if – Dislike couch multiplayer games, prefer online-only competitive play, or seek traditional linear single-player experiences

Runbow Platform Performance

Runbow runs flawlessly across all platforms with consistent frame rates. The Switch version demonstrates impressive technical performance for an indie title, maintaining responsiveness crucial for precise platforming timing in both handheld and docked modes.

Runbow System Requirements

Runbow carries minimal system requirements, running efficiently even on aging hardware. The PC version proves particularly forgiving, requiring only basic GPU support and modest processor power.

Similar Games to Runbow

Runbow’s unique color-mechanics place it in a rare category, though several titles share its blend of accessibility and challenge. Few games match its specific multiplayer-focused platforming approach.

• Shovel Knight – Retro-inspired platforming with tight controls; appears as guest character in Runbow itself
• Freedom Planet – Action platformer with character variety; Freedom Planet characters appear as Runbow guests
• Celeste – Precision platforming with assist options; lacks multiplayer but offers similar difficulty scaling
• New Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – Different genre but matches the chaotic 8-9 player local multiplayer appeal

Runbow vs Competitors

Runbow carves its own niche as the dominant indie-focused multiplayer platformer. Most direct competitors emphasize either single-player depth or shallow party mechanics, while Runbow balances both effectively.

Runbow Story and World

Runbow frames its adventure around protagonist Hue and companion Val confronting evil Satura across a vibrant indie-styled world. The narrative remains light and humorous, prioritizing gameplay over elaborate storytelling. The world itself is essentially a platforming gymnasium decorated with UPA-inspired cartoon aesthetics that feel distinctly different from typical indie pixel art. Character interactions occur through brief dialogue during transitions, but the real story emerges through level design progressions and the color-changing mechanics that define each zone’s personality. Later adventure stages introduce complex color sequences that feel like visual puzzles, creating a sense of progression from simple mechanical comprehension to intricate timing mastery. The cartoonish art direction—with rounded characters and warm color palettes—creates an inviting tone that contrasts pleasantly with the challenging gameplay beneath.

Runbow Multiplayer and Online

Runbow excels in multiplayer features, offering more local player support than nearly any other Switch title. Online modes supplement the couch multiplayer experience, though peer-to-peer connection can be inconsistent.

• Local Multiplayer – Supports 8 players on Switch (9 on Wii U/PC); Run, Arena, King of the Hill, and Arena modes
• Online Multiplayer – Supports 2-9 players in competitive modes; progression separate from campaign
• Bowhemoth Mode – Gauntlet-style single-player challenge; requires solo completion of back-to-back difficult levels
• Cross-Play – No cross-platform online support; local multiplayer only across different systems

Runbow DLC and Expansions

Runbow released substantial post-launch content, primarily cosmetic costume and music packs. The major content expansion—Satura’s Space Adventure—adds 36+ adventure levels and introduces new game modes, providing meaningful expansion for engaged players.

• Satura’s Space Adventure DLC – $6.99; includes 36 new adventure levels, 8 new run levels, 4 arena levels, and exclusive outfits
• Costume and Music Bundles – Multiple themed packs ($0.99-$2.99) featuring character cosmetics and soundtrack additions
• Deluxe Edition – Physical retail release ($29.99) bundling game plus all DLC and soundtrack CD
• Free Updates – Regular balance patches; guest character additions; no major free content expansions

Runbow Community and Support

Runbow maintains active community engagement through 13AM Games and publisher Headup Games. The indie development background fosters genuine developer communication, though community size remains modest compared to AAA titles.

• Official Developer – 13AM Games regularly communicates on Twitter/X regarding updates and community events
• Community Hubs – Discord server active with speedrunner community; Reddit community in r/NintendoSwitch
• Content Creation – YouTube speedrunners regularly feature Runbow; active challenge-run community
• Update Support – Ongoing patch support; periodic balance adjustments; responsiveness to community feedback