Fans of indie games, take note: Metanet Software's groundbreaking N has recently been updated, to version 2.0. Take a look:
As the trailer above demonstrates, there’s plenty of additional to soak in, which is all detailed for a slip second at the very end. Though the following is a far more detailed look at what’s new, via the game’s homepage:
Account System
Creating an account is totally free. This gets you access to the vast N level database, where you can store all of your levels for free, as well as storing your progress so you can access it from whichever computer you log in on. The database also stores highscores for every level — both built-in and user-created!Ned (N-editor)
We've made tons of improvements to Ned, N's built-in editor — it's no longer a beta! We've retained many of the keyboard shortcuts you're used to, but also added a GUI in case you need to brush up (or learn them for the first time). Ned is accessible from the Levels menu when you're logged in.Level Sharing
N is fully integrated with NUMA's spiritual successor. Now you can share, rate and play levels directly in N v2.0. You can also share the URL to your level on twitter, facebook or whatever social thing you're into. Check out the Levels menu when you're logged in for all this and more.FUN-lockables(TM)
All your favourite FUN-lockables are back, plus now when you beat a column of episodes in regular play you FUN-lock Arcade Mode — an extra challenge for expert players.Levels
N v2.0 contains a mix of brand-new levels for you to enjoy, plus a best-of from N v1.4, N+ XBLA and N+ DS/PSP, PLUS a whack of some great user-made levels. And on top of that you can make your own!2-player Local Multiplayer
New in v 2.0, now you can enjoy co-op multiplay locally with your friends. Configure the keys on the Settings menu and press 'n' when you're ready to play single levels or episodes.
And the best part? It's totally free. You can either play it online, via Kongregate, or just nab the downloadable version for either PC or Mac. Links to both versions can be found here.
Metanet Software is also working on N++, which promises to completely shake up the now eight year old formula considerably, so N version 2.0 could be a consider a last hurrah to that which has been established and already beloved.
The importance of N in the grand scheme of things cannot be understated. Many who are active in the indie game scene today attribute N as being the one game that basically helped to created the modern indie scene that thrives today.
