ICEY (2016)

ICEY (2016) is a high-octane 2D side-scrolling action game that cleverly subverts player expectations with its deep meta-narrative. Players embark on a journey ostensibly as the titular character, guided by an omnipresent narrator, only to quickly discover the experience is far more complex. The game actively challenges the player to defy the narrator's directives, encouraging them to question the world's truth and ICEY's purpose, turning the act of playing into a rebellion against conventional game design. This unique approach is paired with a fast-paced combat system, allowing for incredible combos and strategic dodge-and-counter maneuvers against massive cyborg bosses, making every encounter both visually stunning and strategically engaging. This innovative title justly earns its place among the best games by XD, demonstrating their commitment to publishing unique and critically acclaimed experiences. ICEY garnered significant international recognition, including a nomination for Best Chinese Game at The Game Awards 2017 and a nomination for DENGEKI PlayStation Best Indie Game at Tokyo Game Show 2016. Its inclusion as an official selection at Gamescom Indie Arena Booth and Taipei Game Show, alongside winning the Best Technology Award at Indieplay 2015, underscores its technical prowess and groundbreaking design. ICEY exemplifies XD's capacity to deliver games that are not only excellently crafted action experiences but also thought-provoking narratives that resonate with a global audience.