PANIK is a neat looking puzzle game where you help very nervous 2D creatures get a move on

What is a video game NPC, if not a scared creature that needs a bit of help? That’s exactly what the newly announced PANIK focuses on, and it has quickly captured my attention. In PANIK, there are Panikers, a type of scared creature that is so anxious they cannot move from where they stand. This is where you, the player, come in to help them move and calm them down.

You, both the real you and the character in the game, must find ways to get the Panikers to move. The trailer showcases how simply approaching them on the isometric, square layout can calm them down and allow them to move.

This calming effect can spread to other Panikers standing adjacent to each other. Once they are calm enough, you can guide them to specific chequered squares, with multiple squares to fill in each level to complete it.

Each Paniker introduces a new mechanic, requiring you to come up with unique solutions for each level. With over 100 levels, there is plenty of content to explore and enjoy. PANIK feels like the type of puzzle game that draws you in and distracts you during an IT lesson – a welcome break from Excel tutorials.

PANIK does not have a set release date yet, but you can wishlist it on Steam. Alternatively, you can try out an earlier version on itch.io for a taste of what’s to come. Even in its shorter form, it offers a good gameplay experience!