Neon White is a high-octane, speedrunning action game that casts players as a deceased assassin competing to earn a permanent spot in Heaven by purging Hell’s demons. Developed by Ben Esposito, this title has quickly cemented itself as one of the standout releases of the year through its fluid movement, precise gunplay, and distinct, unapologetic style.
Designed for the “Freaks”
In 2021, creator Ben Esposito explicitly stated he wasn’t aiming for mass-market appeal. Instead, he crafted Neon White for “really specific people”—or, as he put it, for “freaks.” The result is a specialized experience that rewards players who crave speed, rhythm, and mastery over mechanical precision.
You assume the role of Neon White, an assassin pulled from Hell for a divine competition. To win a place in eternity, you must tear through the Pearly Gates at breakneck speeds, utilizing an arsenal of heavenly weaponry to clear districts of demonic infestations.
Mastering the Art of Speed
Most levels in Neon White are designed to be completed in under a minute, forcing players to prioritize speed from the very first jump. The movement is exceptionally fluid, creating an almost floating sensation as you navigate the environment. However, the true depth lies in the weapon system.
Each firearm is collected as a card with two distinct functions: a standard attack and a “discard” option. Discarding a card provides a crucial platforming advantage, such as a double jump with pistols, a dash with shotguns, or a grapple shot with rocket launchers. Mastering the timing of these discards while maintaining your momentum is the key to achieving the coveted “Ace” rank.
A Speedrunner’s Playground
The level design feels heavily inspired by community speedrun videos, where players navigate stages with the grace of a well-armed ballerina. Even for those who aren’t professional speedrunners, the game makes you feel incredibly skilled. You’ll find yourself rocketing over enemies, grappling through the stratosphere, and bouncing off explosions to reach the finish line with zero hesitation.
With nearly 30 hours logged, the drive to shave mere tenths of a second off a personal best remains intoxicating. The global leaderboards provide a compelling reason to return to levels, turning the pursuit of perfection into a deeply engaging loop.
Story, Style, and Aesthetic
Beyond the gameplay, Neon White excels in its narrative and visual presentation. The story—a visual novel-style mystery about why the assassins are dead—is surprisingly charming and encourages players to explore character sidequests. The dialogue, while intentionally obnoxious at times, adds to the game’s unique personality.
Aesthetically, the game draws from a niche well of inspiration, evoking the vibe of early 2000s Japanese action titles like Killer7 and El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron. With an anime-influenced visual style and an attitude that feels like a collision between a vintage Hot Topic and a high-energy AMV, it hits a specific nostalgic nerve. Featuring voice acting from industry veteran Steven Blum, the game’s presentation is as slick as its combat.
Neon White is a triumphant achievement that knows exactly who its audience is. Whether you are a dedicated speedrunner or simply someone who appreciates masterful level design and high-velocity action, this is a title that demands your attention.
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