Amidst the excitement of Tokyo Game Show 2025, the "Selected Indie 80" area presented many interesting games. However, our attention was caught by one booth that stood out not for its on-screen graphics, but for its complex physical control engine. It was the booth of PVKK: Planetenverteidigungskanonenkommandant, a unique gameplay demo presentation that caught our attention. We from the PlayEatSleep team had the opportunity to take a closer look at this very unique demo.
Immersive Experience Controlling PVKK's Giant Cannon
The main attraction of the PVKK booth was the very realistic retro-tech-style replica of the control panel. Watching the player interact with the cannon from the beginning to the end of the firing process provided a very real and tactile experience. This mechanical machine attracted every passing visitor.
During the demo, we overheard several visitors commenting that the experience felt like being in a game centerThis is a culture that is very much present in Japan. Seeing a demo with machines where players can interact directly is reminiscent of the classic arcade experience.
PVKK's Intricate and Challenging Gameplay Mechanics
Basically, PVKK's gameplay is Point & Click, where players interact with various buttons and levers on the screen. However, this demo at TGS 2025 takes the concept to the next level with a physical control panel. The player's task sounds simple: shoot down enemy projectiles to defend the planet. However, the execution is far from easy.
The sequence of procedures is very precise, from generating energy, manually locking the target, loading ammunition through several steps, to calculating an accurate firing angle. After successfully firing, the process is not complete, as the cannon chamber must be cleaned.
This complexity was apparent when we observed a group of visitors trying to control the machine. Their reactions show how challenging the gameplay is, even when working together.
The Deep Narrative Behind the Bunker Walls
The demo shown does focus on mechanics, but based on the official information that can also be found on the page SteamPVKK promises a much deeper narrative. Players take on the role of a cannon pilot for an autocratic regime, confined inside a defense bunker to fight off an interplanetary invasion.
This game will present difficult choices that challenge ethics and loyalty. Will players follow orders blindly, or question the regime's motives? The decisions taken will shape the storyline and lead to one of several available endings.
The bunker where players live isn't just a base; it hides many secrets that can be uncovered through stylized puzzles. escape room.
About this Ambitious Project
Our curiosity led us to have a brief chat with the representative at the booth. From there, we learned that PVKK is a project from indie developer Germany's Bippinbits, which previously had success with the game Dome Keeper, published by Kepler Interactive.
Meanwhile, the physical control panel that was so impressive at TGS 2025 was apparently made by a specialist company from the UK. When asked about the release schedule, the publisher stated that the game is targeted for release in Summer next year, and they hope everything goes according to schedule.
Expectation for PVKK
Watching the PVKK demo at Tokyo Game Show 2025 left a very strong impression. On the one hand, it offers a hardcore simulation with complex and satisfying mechanics. On the other hand, it promises a mature narrative, full of intrigue and heavy moral dilemmas.
This unique combination of tactile gameplay and evocative story is what makes PVKK one of our most anticipated indie games.
Don't miss the exclusive TGS 2025 report
TOKYO GAME SHOW is one of the world's largest game shows organized by the Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association (CESA) and co-organizers Nikkei Business Publications, Inc. and DENTSU INC. TGS has become the premier platform for game industry players to showcase their latest innovations and technologies.
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