Independent developer Efecto Studios has unveiled BUNRAU, a multiplayer fighting and platforming game inspired by traditional Japanese puppet theater and fast-paced ninja combat. The game is currently in development for PC via Steam, Nintendo Switch 2, and PlayStation 5.
The Bogotá-based studio also launched a free Steam playtest running through June 14, giving players an early look at the title’s competitive combat system and theatrical presentation.
A Fighting Game Inspired by Japanese Puppet Theater
BUNRAU blends side-scrolling platform combat with visual themes drawn from Bunraku, the centuries-old Japanese puppetry art form. The game places players inside a stylized stage performance where legendary ninja warriors battle before a live audience that reacts dynamically to the action.
According to Efecto Studios, the game supports up to eight players in both online and local multiplayer modes, emphasizing chaotic arena battles built around precision movement and timing.
The arenas themselves are designed to change during matches, turning each fight into what the developers describe as a “staged performance” rather than a traditional arena brawler.
Fast-Paced Ninja Combat Centers on Precision
Dash Attacks, Parries, and Ninjutsu
Gameplay in BUNRAU focuses heavily on mobility and counterplay. Players use high-speed dash attacks to eliminate opponents in a single strike while avoiding incoming attacks across multi-level stages.
A parry system allows players to block and stun enemies while also redirecting thrown projectiles back toward attackers. Timing and positioning appear to play a major role in surviving matches, especially in larger multiplayer sessions.
Players can also collect scrolls scattered throughout arenas to activate special ninjutsu abilities capable of shifting the momentum of a battle.
Live Audience Reactions Shape the Atmosphere
One of the game’s standout features is its theatrical framing. Matches unfold on a stage under bright lights while an in-game audience cheers successful attacks and reacts to defensive plays.
The presentation leans into the idea of combat as performance art, blending competitive gameplay with dramatic visual flair reminiscent of arcade fighting games and party brawlers.
Steam Playtest Available Through June 14
The free public playtest is currently available on Steam and gives players access to online and local multiplayer modes.
Efecto Studios is encouraging players to provide feedback during the testing period as development continues ahead of launch on PC and consoles.
No official release date has been announced yet.
Veteran Colombian Studio Expands Its Original IP Portfolio
Efecto Studios Brings Decades of Industry Experience
Founded in Colombia, Efecto Studios has more than two decades of experience working on major game projects across the global industry.
The studio has contributed to several well-known titles, including ARK: Survival Evolved, Lords of the Fallen, Palia, Battlefield Mobile, Atlas, and Dark and Light.
While much of the company’s work has focused on co-development and outsourcing partnerships, BUNRAU represents part of the studio’s effort to expand its internally developed indie projects.
Latin American Developers Gain Global Visibility
The reveal also reflects the growing presence of Latin American studios within the global gaming industry. Developers from Colombia, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Argentina have increasingly gained international attention through showcases, Steam events, and indie publishing partnerships.
For U.S. players, BUNRAU enters a competitive multiplayer market that continues to favor accessible party-style combat games with strong online functionality and stylized presentation.
Conclusion
With its combination of theatrical presentation, precision ninja combat, and large-scale multiplayer battles, BUNRAU aims to offer a distinctive take on the fighting game genre. As the free Steam playtest continues, Efecto Studios is positioning the game as both a celebration of Japanese performance traditions and a fast-paced competitive experience for modern players on PC and consoles.
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