Hands-On with Everdeep Aurora: A Cozy, Combat-Free Adventure Worth Watching Out For | The Gamerheads Podcast

After playing Everdeep Aurora at PAX West last year, I couldn’t wait to dive back in. The newly released demo gave me a bit more time with the game, and by the end, I was practically salivating for the full experience. It’s a rare gem—an exploration-focused title with no combat—that never feels repetitive. Everdeep Aurora is packed with hidden charm, and even in this short slice, it already feels like something truly special.

In the current demo, the focus shifted away from the digging mechanics I experienced at PAX West. Instead, it showcased Everdeep Aurora’s strengths as a puzzle-platformer. I had to track down four ghosts scattered throughout a haunted house, each holding a key needed to unlock a new area. What stood out to me was how this demo highlighted the game’s versatility—it’s not just another SteamWorld Dig clone. In fact, it felt more in line with something like Shovel Knight, so it was a fun surprise to find a Shovel Knight Easter egg tucked away in the house.

Another standout is the artwork. At first glance, it may look simple, but the use of distinct color palettes really enhances the level design. For example, when I entered an area populated by other diggers, the visuals shifted from the deep blues of the haunted house to warm orange and brown tones. The music also changed to match, swapping the spooky (in a cartoony kind of way) haunted house theme for something more calm and peaceful. That combination of visual and audio cues gave each area its own distinct personality.

The demo was short and I just wanted to play more. We don’t have to wait much longer though as it’s releasing on July 10th for Nintendo Switch and Steam!