The best Smash Bros.-like on Steam just added a character who can shop for items and go fishing in the middle of a match, in case you thought fighting games were too one-note

Rivals of Aether 2 Welcomes a Pirate Shark That’s as Chaotic as Shovel Knight

The wait is over for platform fighter fans craving something fresh and delightfully absurd. Rivals of Aether 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the beloved indie smash hit, is about to get even wilder with the introduction of Slade, a rakish pirate shark wielding a cutlass and a treasure chest full of surprises. If you’ve ever missed Shovel Knight’s gem-pounding chaos, Slade might just be the character to scratch that itch—with a few fishy twists.

A New Challenger Approaches: Meet Slade

Slade isn’t your average platform fighter. This swashbuckling shark slices enemies with his cutlass, but every hit drops piles of shiny currency. What’s a pirate to do with all that loot? Spend it, of course! Slade can use his hard-earned gems to purchase mid-match upgrades, including a one-time cheat death ability and a grappling hook to reel in opponents. It’s a playstyle that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, blending the strategic depth of Rivals of Aether with the chaotic energy of Shovel Knight.

But Slade isn’t just about swordplay. He cycles through an arsenal of weapons like bombs, boomerangs, and shurikens, making him a versatile and unpredictable fighter. In skilled hands, he’s bound to keep opponents on their toes—and maybe even their tails.

The Absurdity We Crave

If there’s one thing Rivals of Aether has mastered, it’s delivering moments of pure, unadulterated absurdity. Slade’s trailer is a perfect example. At one point, he casually reels in a fish from off-screen, tosses it into a treasure chest, and—boom!—the fish flies out and smacks a downed opponent. It’s the kind of ridiculous, over-the-top moment that makes platform fighters so much fun.

This level of creativity is par for the course for Rivals of Aether. The game’s roster already includes a folding chair-flinging ant wrestler and a magnet-powered dinosaur, so it’s clear the developers know they need to bring the heat to compete with heavyweights like Sephiroth, Mario, and John Fire Emblem.

A Nod to Shovel Knight Fans

For those who fell in love with Shovel Knight’s gem-pounding antics in the original Rivals of Aether, Slade’s arrival is a long-awaited treat. While Shovel Knight’s playstyle was a fan favorite, it was notably absent from Rivals of Aether 2—until now. Slade’s ability to collect currency and spend it on upgrades feels like a spiritual successor to Shovel Knight’s chaotic charm, but with a pirate twist.

Slade’s Origins and Release Date

Slade first made his debut in Dungeons of Aether, the turn-based spinoff that’s been earning praise for its clever design. Now, he’s making the leap to Rivals of Aether 2, bringing his chaotic energy to the main stage. Fans of the Aether universe have even more reason to celebrate, as Slade’s release is set for April 7, 2026.

Why Rivals of Aether 2 Stands Out

While the absence of Shovel Knight in Rivals of Aether 2 was a disappointment for some, the game has more than made up for it with its innovative roster and fast-paced gameplay. Rivals of Aether 2 continues to push the boundaries of what a platform fighter can be, blending tight mechanics with a roster of characters that are as unique as they are memorable.

Whether you’re a fan of the original Rivals of Aether, a newcomer to the series, or just someone who loves watching a pirate shark slap enemies with a fish, Slade’s arrival is a reminder of why this franchise continues to stand out in a crowded genre.

Tags & Viral Phrases

• Pirate Shark
• Shovel Knight Vibes
• Chaos on the High Seas
• Gem-Pounding Mayhem
• Absurd Platform Fighter Moments
• Cutlass Chaos
• Treasure Chest Shenanigans
• Fish Slap Frenzy
• Rivals of Aether 2 Hype
• April 7, 2026 – Mark Your Calendars
• Dungeons of Aether Crossover
• Platform Fighter Insanity
• Swashbuckling Shark Slayer
• Mid-Match Upgrades Galore
• Ant Wrestler and Dinosaur, Who’s Next?

Rivals of Aether 2 is shaping up to be a must-play for fans of the genre, and with Slade’s arrival, it’s clear the developers aren’t holding back. Get ready to dive into the chaos—and maybe bring a fish for good measure.

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