Rooftops & Alleys: Reviving the Joy of Parkour in Gaming

Parkour-focused games like Mirror’s Edge and Free Running were once pop culture sensations, captivating audiences and gamers alike. However, this genre has largely faded into the background, overshadowed by more complex gaming landscapes. Enter solo indie developer Michel Losch, who is determined to reignite the excitement of urban navigation and parkour with his upcoming title, Rooftops & Alleys. Promising full control and a stylish approach to movement, this game aims to bring the thrill of freerunning back to players’ screens.

The Rise and Fall of Parkour Games

Parkour has seen its moments in mainstream entertainment, especially through blockbuster films featuring high-energy chases—think Jason Bourne and James Bond. Video games capitalized on this enthusiasm with titles like Assassin’s Creed and Dying Light, which integrated parkour mechanics into their broader gameplay. However, in recent years, parkour has become an ancillary feature rather than a central element of these experiences. Players find themselves engaged in automated movements, pressing buttons without the real agency that once defined the genre.

Given the diminishing focus on parkour, Michel Losch sees immense potential in reviving this underrepresented genre. With Rooftops & Alleys, he aims to reintroduce the element of joy associated with mastering free movement in urban space, where every trick and leap counts towards your success.

What is Rooftops & Alleys?

In Rooftops & Alleys, parkour is more than just a means of getting from Point A to Point B. This title combines both parkour and freerunning, encouraging players to not only sprint through beautifully designed maps at breakneck speeds but also to execute stunning tricks along the way. The game rewards players with points for style, meaning the journey is just as significant as the destination.

Players can take on a range of challenges, from timed races to high-score competitions, reminiscent of classic games like Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater. Each obstacle presents an opportunity to think outside the box: should you flip over a barrier or latch onto it and perform a trick off it? The game encourages creative problem-solving in movement, which is a refreshing return to form for the genre. Adding to the fun of competition is a tag mode, where players can show off their newly learned tricks while chasing and evading friends.

What the Devs Say About It

Losch describes the inspiration behind Rooftops & Alleys as rooted deeply in his love for parkour and vibrant video gaming. He recounts his early experiences watching exhilarating sequences in films and playing classics like Mirror’s Edge and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater.

“I like freedom, and I like creative expression in games,” Losch shares. “I wanted to create something that allows players to flow through environments and express themselves as they execute flips and tricks.”

While he initially thought about integrating more realistic mechanics, he ultimately leaned towards a more arcade-style feel. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Jet Set Radio Future, he decided to prioritize speed and responsiveness over rigid physics. This approach suggests a community-driven style of gameplay where the fun of movement returns to the forefront.

Balancing Realism and Gameplay

A common critique of parkour games is the lack of player control over their movement. Losch recognizes this as a significant concern among gamers eager for more agency. He aims to provide players with more options, giving them the freedom to experiment without cumbersome controls that often accompany gunplay and vehicle dynamics in other games.

“Rooftops & Alleys” promises to deliver an experience where players can feel genuine control without sacrificing the fun. As Losch states, “I’ve never talked about this, but I tried to take an approach where I looked at other sports too. I found out about Death Diving, which has nothing to do with parkour, but I wanted to add more tricks.”

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Rooftops & Alleys?

With its full launch slated for June 17, 2025, across PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam, Rooftops & Alleys is set to keep evolving. Losch teases the addition of a Photo Mode and quirky achievements designed to surprise players, along with ongoing updates planned post-launch.

“I’ve had 30 updates already through Early Access, and I’m committed to keeping the momentum going,” he notes. “I want to make sure I add fresh content that keeps players engaged, with some surprises in store.”

With a promising blend of nostalgia and innovation, Rooftops & Alleys could reclaim the parkour genre’s place in gaming, inviting both veterans and newcomers to rediscover the art of freerunning.

As the gaming landscape continually evolves, it’s exciting to see indie developers like Michel Losch breathe new life into forgotten genres. With Rooftops & Alleys, players can expect a heartfelt homage to the thrill of parkour—one backflip at a time.

For more on upcoming indie games, check out our features on independent game developers, the evolution of parkour in video games, and insights on how freerunning is shaping modern gameplay.