Grumpy grandpa's got moves: 'the eternal life of goldman' demo drops
Weappy Studio’s The Eternal Life of Goldman is generating a surprising amount of buzz, and it's not just due to its charming, hand-drawn visuals. This upcoming metroidvania, set to launch across PC, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and Nintendo Switch in 2026, features a decidedly unsentimental protagonist: Goldman, a perpetually irascible senior citizen wielding a surprisingly versatile cane.
A trailer that's both delightful and disturbing
A recent Xbox Partner Preview showcased the title's peculiar blend of whimsical aesthetics and shockingly dark humor. The trailer doesn't shy away from depicting Goldman engaging in… unconventional problem-solving. We're talking spinal cord extraction from trapped creatures and, yes, even prompting a crab's suicide. It’s a tonal tightrope walk, and one that, judging by early reactions, Weappy Studio appears to be navigating with a peculiar confidence.
But beyond the shock value, The Eternal Life of Goldman offers a degree of customization for Goldman’s signature weapon. Players will be able to unlock new abilities and combat approaches, expanding the range of options for dispatching the game's monstrous inhabitants. The developers describe their creation as a dynamic and often bleak intertwining of legends, fairy tales, and myths, all centered around Goldman’s mission to assassinate the Deity – a mythical figure spoken of in hushed tones, yet never before seen.
“To find the Deity, you must delve into the many secrets these islands hold,” the team explains. “You will discover a place marked by tragedy, populated by eccentric characters, and filled with startling contrasts.” For those eager to experience this oddity firsthand, a demo is currently available, offering a glimpse into Goldman’s extraordinary quest. But don’t expect a gentle stroll through a storybook landscape; this is a journey into the heart of a beautifully rendered, morally ambiguous world.
The fact that THQ Nordic is distributing this title suggests a belief in its potential, and the demo provides a crucial opportunity to assess whether Goldman’s particular brand of existential grumbling can resonate with a wider audience. The early signs are promising, hinting at a metroidvania experience that dares to be different, and occasionally, deeply unsettling.