Next PixelJunk game revealed

Q Games' PixelJunk line of PlayStation 3 downloadable games has followed an interesting trajectory. After starting out with the straightforward slot-car racer PixelJunk Racers, the developer branched out into deeper fare with the tower-defense game PixelJunk Monsters and the aesthetically distinctive platformer (and Game Developers Choice award nominee) PixelJunk Eden.

Now Q Games has revealed that it will be venturing into yet another different genre with the fourth PixelJunk game. Late last week, the studio uploaded a clip of the new game to YouTube, and is now asking interested gamers to help name the endeavor. The official PixelJunk Web site has been updated with news of a worldwide naming contest for the game, which is currently referred to as "PixelJunk 1-4."

The game apparently takes place in a series of underground caverns full of water, magma, and other environmental substances that will serve as both obstacles and tools thanks to a physics system that specializes in fluid dynamics. Players will pilot a tiny ship through the caverns, creatively using the landscape, water, and magma to help clear safe paths.

The fan who enters the best name for PixelJunk 1-4 will receive his or her name in the staff credits, as well as "an original T-shirt." Five runners-up will also receive T-shirts. Submissions must be received no later than May 11, with a winner to be announced by the end of the month.

For more on the game, check out GameSpot's hands-on impressions of PixelJunk 1-4.