This game is amazing, it broke me at the very end, I did not want to cry and accept the reality of the game. It is so real and depressing

Rivals of Aether 2 – A New Legacy in Progress

Rivals of Aether 2 may not have the same feel as Rivals of Aether 1, but that is not a bad thing — it is a sign of growth. After months of playing, I can confidently say this game is carving its own identity. Rivals 1 was an excellent, fast-paced indie platform fighter that helped define the genre. It still holds up today.

But it was never the full vision that the Rivals team had in mind. Rivals 2 is that vision finally coming to life. While expanding the scope significantly, it builds on what ROA1 created. From the transition to 3D visuals and refined animation to new mechanics like ledge specials, special pummels, and floorhugging, it is clear that Aether Studios is not just appealing to nostalgia — they are pushing the platform fighter forward with intention.

This sequel already includes a lot for a first-year indie release:

• A ten-character roster, soon to become thirteen, each with distinct mechanics and identity.

• Online ranked mode, better rollback netcode than most of the genre.


• A solid, though still evolving, training mode with many tools available at launch.

• Seasonal events, stylish cosmetics, and the ability to grind for rewards even after events end.

• A community-driven Nolt board where player suggestions are frequently addressed.

• Integrated tournament features such as rock-paper-scissors openers and built-in Bo3/Bo5 toggles.

That said, ROA2 is not without its flaws — but that is fine. What matters is that the developers are actively listening and making thoughtful changes.

Constructive Criticism and Suggestions

The training mode is helpful, but still lacks several advanced tools such as frame advantage overlays, dynamic UI repositioning, and replay takeover for more effective practice and coaching. Menu layouts could be more keyboard-friendly and customisable.

Adding story mode, full movelists, and combo trials will be essential for on boarding new players. More single-player and multiplayer modes like Abyss Mode, crew battles, and tetherball-style minigames would help diversify play outside of ranked.

Global server and tournament infrastructure remains limited, with much of the support still concentrated in North America. Regions like Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Oceania deserve better tools to support their communities — and while I understand the size of the dev team, international support will become increasingly important as the game grows.

Aesthetic details like an opening cinematic, an in-game announcer, more stages, and new music would go a long way in strengthening the game’s atmosphere. The existing music is excellent — the work from **RESOFORCE**, flashygoodness, and others elevates every match and trailer — and it deserves even more space to shine.

Minor glitches such as the duplicate character victory screen bug and a few clunky UI elements are forgivable for a live indie title, but they should be addressed in time.

What It Does Right

Aether Studios listens. The team is active on Discord, Twitter, and the Nolt board, showing consistent transparency and humour. The characters are unique, expressive, and packed with tech depth — Etalus and Olympia, in particular, have been a joy to play. Floorhugging, though still debated, adds defensive and offensive layers to the meta.

Control customisation, accessibility options, and grindable cosmetics are generous and improving. Annual events keep the content fresh and exciting. The game’s tournament support — from ranked systems to toggleable tournament modes — is better than many full-priced fighters.

The passion behind this game is obvious. From Dan Fornace’s open blog posts to the charming Rivals Direct showcases, this team clearly cares. They are honest about financial realities and third-party publishing partnerships, and they remain committed to long-term player access, as seen through initiatives like the [#StopKillingGames](https://www.stopkillinggames.com) movement.

Final Thoughts

Rivals of Aether 2 is more than a sequel — it is a refinement and expansion of a genre-defining indie project. It has the mechanical ambition of Melee, the presentation of a modern fighter, and the spirit of a close-knit community. It is not perfect, but it is being built with care, purpose, and a deep respect for its players.

As someone who has played these games for years, I believe Rivals 2 is worthy of time, attention, feedback, and support. It is already impressive, and with time, it will be something truly remarkable.


TL;DR

Rivals of Aether 2 is not just ROA1 with a new coat of paint — it is a serious evolution of the series and the genre. It introduces deeper mechanics, better visuals, and more thoughtful systems while maintaining the heart of a passionate indie team.

The game has its flaws — training mode needs more features, casual modes are limited, and global server support could be better. But Aether Studios is actively improving the game, listening to community feedback, and releasing regular content and quality-of-life updates.

If you love platform fighters and want to support a developer that listens, cares, and delivers, then this game is more than worth playing. It is not done yet — but it is already something special.