Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

4.8/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 42,796

Mobile Support: No

About Hedgerow

Dive into the lush and mysterious world of Hedgerow, the dungeon crawler that took the indie scene by storm and clinched #1 at Dungeon Crawler Jam 2021! Developed by the innovative Skrinkus / msb, Hedgerow throws you into a living, breathing hedgerow labyrinth, packed with quirky charm and adrenaline-pumping action. Each step forward pushes you deeper into twisting branches and rustling leaves as you maneuver past clever foes and discover secrets hidden in the brush.

Hedgerow stands out for its unique blend of accessible gameplay and captivating atmosphere. Designed for easy pick-up-and-play, it’s the perfect entry point for gamers new to the dungeon crawling genre, yet offers enough subtle depth to hook veterans. Responsive WASD movement combines with simple, satisfying combat—just a tap as you slash with precision or block enemy strikes. For those tricky moments when you’re cornered by enemies, mash the spacebar to outwit danger or swiftly restart. No two runs are ever quite the same!

Played right in your browser with no downloads required, Hedgerow dazzles with its handcrafted pixel art, painting a world that feels both vibrant and inviting. Each hedgerow path whispers secrets, urging you onward with the promise of new challenges. Hedgerow’s clever controls, intuitive mechanics, and quick respawn system mean the action never pauses for long. Whether you have five minutes or an hour, Hedgerow promises a lively, fast-paced adventure that rewards curiosity and bold moves.

If you’re searching for an indie hit that proves big thrills can come from small packages, look no further. Hedgerow is the browser dungeon you’ll return to again and again—just hit play and lose yourself in the maze. Are you ready to slice through brambles and claim the hedgerow’s secrets? Challenge yourself and join the ranks of those who’ve conquered this award-winning adventure. Play now and discover why Hedgerow is a must-play for action fans and indie enthusiasts alike!

How to Play

Getting started in Hedgerow is as easy as diving into the heart of the maze. Once the game loads in your browser, use the classic WASD keys to move—navigating left, right, forward, and back through the mysterious hedgerow passages. Toggle your facing direction by pressing Q to turn left and E to turn right, ensuring you never miss a hidden turn or surprise enemy.

When danger strikes, left-click or press X to unleash a satisfyingly snappy slash attack, while right-click or O lets you block incoming blows. Timing is everything—mastering the combat rhythm will help you breeze past tricky foes. If you find yourself surrounded or boxed in, don’t panic! Rapidly press the spacebar to advance time or restart your position, giving you breathing room to reassess and re-engage.

For those keen on stealth, hold Left Shift to stand on your tippy toes—sometimes being quiet is the best way to sneak past unwitting enemies. Keep your senses peeled for subtle environmental cues; every twist in the path could reveal secret nooks or alternative routes.

Beginners are encouraged to experiment without fear: Hedgerow’s easy difficulty and quick respawns mean you can learn through action, rather than frustration. The game rewards exploration and creative problem-solving, so poke around and don’t be afraid to try new tactics. Your path is yours to carve—so get moving, stay alert, and enjoy the journey through the verdant maze!

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Use the spacebar trick: If you’re stuck between enemies, rapidly hit space to safely advance time or reset your position—don’t lose your run to a simple trap!
Alternate between slashing and blocking: Combine attacks (X/left-click) with well-timed blocks (O/right-click) for efficient, hit-free encounters.
Scout before advancing: Use Q and E to peek around corners and avoid getting surprised by lurking enemies.
Stealth is your friend: Try holding Left Shift to move silently—sometimes avoiding a fight is the smartest way to survive.
Replay for secrets: Each run can reveal new paths and hidden spots; challenge yourself to find them all for a true completionist experience.
Quick reflexes pay off: The game favors timing over brute force, especially when enemies swarm—stay calm and strike with purpose.
Don’t be afraid to retry: Hedgerow is built for experimentation, so rapid restarts are a normal part of the adventure.

Game Features

Award-winning indie gameplay—#1 at Dungeon Crawler Jam 2021
Colorful handmade pixel art brings the hedgerow maze to life
Simple, accessible controls for instant pick-up-and-play fun
Unique restart and time-advance mechanic to keep the action flowing
Browser-based—no download or installation required
Easy difficulty with depth for players of all skill levels
Secret paths and hidden surprises for intrepid explorers

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I restart or get unstuck if enemies box me in?

Just rapidly press the spacebar—Hedgerow’s unique mechanic will either advance time or restart your last safe position, letting you escape tight spots without penalty.

Is Hedgerow really free to play and do I need to download anything?

Yes! Hedgerow is 100% free to play online and runs directly in your browser via itch.io—no downloads, installs, or signups needed.

Can I play Hedgerow on my phone or tablet?

Currently, Hedgerow is not mobile compatible and is best enjoyed on desktop using your keyboard and mouse.

What makes Hedgerow different from other dungeon crawlers?

Hedgerow combines a charming, handcrafted aesthetic with streamlined, accessible mechanics, plus creative features like its rapid restart system—offering a welcoming yet rewarding challenge for all players.

Are there any secrets or hidden features to discover?

Absolutely! The hedgerow is filled with secret passageways and clever environmental cues—explore thoroughly and you’ll uncover plenty of surprises and alternate routes.