First Draft is an action indie casual early access aerial arcade combat game on PC in which players pilot a paper airplane through fast-paced battles against other aircraft. The core experience centers on precise flying, dodging attacks, and engaging enemies in a series of encounters that test reaction time and positioning. Developed as a solo project that began in a game jam, the title emphasizes straightforward arcade shooting mechanics without complex systems or multiplayer elements at launch.
Gameplay
Players control a paper airplane in third-person aerial combat, navigating through levels that feature varied environments and waves of opposing planes. Combat revolves around shooting down enemies while avoiding their projectiles and obstacles in the sky. The plane handles with responsive controls suited to quick turns and altitude adjustments, allowing for aggressive approaches or evasive maneuvers during intense sections. Unique bosses appear at key points, each presenting distinct attack patterns that require players to learn timing and positioning to overcome. Plane texture customization lets users alter the visual appearance of their aircraft for personal preference. The experience stays focused on single-player progression, with an emphasis on skill improvement through repeated attempts at challenging encounters.
Game Modes
Normal mode serves as the primary campaign-style experience, guiding players through stages filled with enemies and culminating in boss fights. Completing Normal mode unlocks Endless mode, which shifts focus to survival against continuous waves of opponents for as long as possible. Trials mode remains in development and will offer time-based challenges once implemented. Steam leaderboards are also listed as work in progress, intended to track performance metrics such as survival duration or completion speed in supported modes. These options provide a clear progression path from structured levels to open-ended play, all within a single-player framework.
Development and Current State
First Draft originated as a game jam entry before expanding into a full solo development effort. The developer plans ongoing content updates following the Early Access launch, including additional stages with new environments, enemies, and bosses. Each planned stage aims to introduce distinct challenges that build on the existing aerial combat foundation. Controller support and accessibility options are slated for improvement, alongside Steam achievements for the full release. The project maintains a modest scope suited to its indie roots, prioritizing polished core mechanics over expansive features.
Is It Worth Playing?
First Draft targets players who enjoy classic arcade-style aerial combat with a lighthearted paper airplane theme and a focus on single-player skill building. Its straightforward loop of flying, shooting, and surviving waves makes it accessible for casual sessions while offering enough challenge through boss encounters and endless survival to encourage repeated play. As an Early Access title from a solo developer, the game currently features one stage with three unique enemies and a boss, plus the unlocked Endless mode for extended sessions. Customization options add a personal touch without complicating the experience. Those seeking a simple yet engaging indie action game on PC may find value in following its development, particularly if they appreciate responsive flight controls and progressive difficulty in a compact package. Updates after release will expand the content available to early players.