Executioner

3.6 / 5

6,721 plays

platform

Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

3.6/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 6,721

Mobile Support: No

About Executioner

Step into the relentless world of Executioner, the latest indie sensation crafted exclusively for the 2024 Boss Rush Jam. Dive into a pulse-pounding platformer where every decision and every move is the razor-thin line between survival and defeat. With precise keyboard or mobile controls, you’ll need to master every punch, kick, grapple, and ranged attack as you face a gauntlet of merciless bosses that test your timing, reflexes, and mettle.

Executioner is not just another platformer—it’s a hardcore boss rush crafted for players hungry for a true challenge. Boasting crisp pixel graphics that evoke nostalgia with a modern flair, the arenas are packed with intricate traps, unpredictable enemy patterns, and dynamic environments that push your agility to the limit. Each boss encounter is a unique puzzle; study their ferocious attack patterns, unleash rapid combos, and adapt on the fly to claim victory. No two battles ever feel the same, ensuring every run is a fresh shot of adrenaline.

Engage with controls designed for responsive, skill-based gameplay. Whether you’re leaping over lethal hazards with pixel-perfect jumps or chaining devastating combos of punches, kicks, and special grapples, you’ll feel the weight and intensity of every moment. Executioner’s tight mechanics reward sharp reflexes and creative strategies, making every hard-fought victory astonishingly satisfying.

Exclusive to browser and desktop play, Executioner offers a seamless HTML5 experience, free from downloads or installs. Perfect for both solo speedrunners and players craving brutal single-player action, you can instantly jump in and pit your skills against the ultimate bosses anywhere, anytime. Are you ready to prove yourself as the true Executioner? Accept the challenge, sharpen your instincts, and etch your legend among the platforming elite.

How to Play

Getting started in Executioner is simple, but mastering the game requires focus and precision. On the keyboard, use 'A' and 'D' to move left and right, 'W' to jump, and 'S' to roll under attacks. Offensively, use 'J' to deliver quick punches, 'L' to unleash powerful kicks, and 'K' to grab and grapple enemies. For ranged combat, press 'M' to launch a projectile—perfect for punishing distant bosses. When bosses strike back, hit 'I' to block and minimize damage. Pro tip: mix up your strikes and grapples by combining movement keys (A/S/D) for creative combo attacks and evasions.

If you’re playing on mobile, the intuitive D-pad lets you move, jump, and roll, while punch ('P'), kick ('K'), grab ('G'), block ('B'), and ranged attack ('R') buttons keep you in total control. Move the D-pad in different directions to vary your attacks, mimicking the depth of keyboard play.

Tips for beginners: Observe each boss’s pattern before attacking; sometimes patience saves more health than aggression. Use your roll (S or down on D-pad) to evade big attacks and position for counterstrikes. Blocks and timed grabs can turn the tide during desperate moments. Don’t hesitate to experiment; each boss rewards creative strategies and flexible thinking. Stay persistent—every defeat is just another step toward becoming the ultimate Executioner.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Study each boss’s attack patterns for openings—patience pays off.
Roll strategically to dodge heavy-hitting moves and reposition for counterattacks.
Combine directional keys with strikes and grapples for unique combo chains.
Master blocking and timed grabs to counter boss attacks in critical moments.
Conserve your ranged attacks for when bosses are most vulnerable.
Experiment with movement—some arenas have secret routes and safe spots.
Don't get discouraged—each loss reveals new strategies and tells for the next run.

Game Features

Brutal boss rush gameplay with unique, hand-crafted enemies
Fluid, combo-driven combat with advanced grappling and skill shots
Retro-inspired pixel graphics with dynamic, animated arenas
Responsive keyboard and mobile controls for seamless play
Challenging difficulty tuned for hardcore platforming fans
Instant browser access—no downloads, no installs required
Crafted by an indie creator for Boss Rush Jam 2024, embracing raw challenge and creativity

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Executioner really that hard?

Yes! Executioner is designed for players seeking a real challenge. Each boss battle pushes your skills to the limit, but with persistence and strategy, every victory is possible.

Can I play Executioner on my phone or tablet?

Executioner is optimized for desktop play and browser controls, but also features intuitive mobile touch controls. However, for the full experience and smoothest gameplay, a keyboard or gamepad is recommended.

Do I need to create an account or download anything to play?

No account or download is necessary! Just open the game in your browser and play instantly on itch.io—it's 100% free and hassle-free.

Are there any tips for defeating tough bosses?

Watch each boss carefully to memorize their patterns. Time your dodges, blocks, and combos—don't rush in blindly. Smart use of ranged attacks and grapples can shift battles in your favor.

Why was Executioner created?

Executioner was developed as a passion project for the 2024 Boss Rush Jam. It's a tribute to classic, hardcore platformers with a pure focus on skill, speed, and boss battles.