Tag: Metroidvania

  • Deal: 85% Loved Metroidvania Now 70% Off on Steam

    Deal: 85% Loved Metroidvania Now 70% Off on Steam

    Key Takeaway

    – Priced at $5.99, matching its all-time low on Steam (70% off until June 24, 2026)
    – More of a survival action game than a true Metroidvania, lacking traditional ability-gating
    – Combat relies on inventory management (swapping weapons, spells, items mid-fight) rather than skill progression
    – Impressive pixel art with modern lighting effects; 85% positive rating from 5,000+ Steam reviews
    – Roughly 5–7 hours of gameplay with multiple endings and harder difficulty modes


    Lost Ruins: A Metroidvania or Something Else?

    Lost Ruins dont totally fit the Metroidvania label that folks often stick on it, and its worth knowing that upfront. However, at $5.99, which matches its all-time low on Steam, that makes it less of a big deal. Developed by South Korean studio ALTARI GAMES and brought to us by DANGEN Entertainment, this game came out in May 2021 and currently has an 85% positive rating from over 5,000 Steam reviews. The current 70% discount runs until June 24, 2026.

    Story and Visuals That Stand Out

    The game follows an amnesiac young woman who gets summoned to a dungeon. She is told by the mysterious mage Beatrice that defeating the Dark Lady’s monsters is the key to restoring her memories. The setup is neat, but the execution is where Lost Ruins carves its own space. The pixel art complements modern lighting effects nicely, drawing comparisons to Dead Cells and Noita in the reviews. The visual presentation is actually quite impressive for an indie of this scale, with a style that feels both retro and polished.

    Combat Mechanics and Playtime

    The combat involves inventory management — swapping weapons, spells, and items mid-fight rather than building character abilities over time. Multiple endings can be unlocked depending on quests completed, and harder difficulty modes are available for players who want a punishing challenge. A full playthrough runs roughly 5-7 hours, which is a decent length for a game that cost under six bucks. The combat can feel fluid when you get the hang of it, but theres a learning curve for sure.

    Honest Caveats and What to Expect

    The honest caveat: Lost Ruins lacks traditional ability-gating, which makes it more linear than the Metroidvania label gives it credit for. Its better described as a survival action game with Metroidvania vibes. Combat can become repetitive, and difficulty balance is occasionally uneven — something to be aware of on higher settings. Some players might find the lack of exploration frustraiting compared to true Metroidvanias, but others will appriciate the focused gameplay.

    Price and Compatibility

    But at $5.99 (matching its historical lowest price), those are relatively easy compromises to make. The game runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability on Steam and SteamDB. For a budget-friendly title, Lost Ruins offers plenty of value for fans of action games with pixel art charm.


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  • Deal: 90% Loved Metroidvania Now 75% Off on Steam

    Deal: 90% Loved Metroidvania Now 75% Off on Steam

    Key Takeaway

    – Sequel to Blasphemous 1, continuing the story after the Wounds of Eventide DLC.
    – New weapons allow for varied combos and finishing moves, expanding on the first game’s combat.
    – Features Gothic-inspired landscapes, tough bosses with unique patterns, and NPC quests.
    – “Very Positive” on Steam (90% positive from 18,960+ reviews), praised for world and gameplay.
    – Currently 75% off ($7.49) on Steam until June 25, 2026, though some bugs and high difficulty are noted.


    The Penitent One Returns in 2023

    Releassed on August 24, 2023, and developted by The Game Kitchen, Blasphemous 2 takse place after the events of the Wounds of Eventide DLC from the first game. Featuring the same gameplay, this Metroidvania plunges you into a mesterious world where you once again play as the Penitent One to face a new threat.

    Exploring Gothic Landscapes

    Throughout youre adventure, you will have to travel through many landscapes inspired by the Gothic style and forge you’re own path. You will encounter many enimies with different weapons and abilities. But while this game shares some similiarities with Blasphemous, new weapons are availible, allowing you to vary your combos and finishing moves.

    Facing New Challenges and Upgrades

    Many bosses with differnt patterns and abilities will stand in you’re way, and you’ll need to upgrade you’re skills to defeat them. Finaly, you can talk to NPCs to accept quests or collect valuable items.

    Critcal Reception and Steam Rating

    If the first game was well-recieved by players, this is also the case for Blasphemous 2. It is rated “Very Positive” on Steam, with 90% positive reviews out of more than 18,960 reviews. Its world is well-liked, along with its gameplay and the many features availible. However, some players find the bosses very dificult to beat, and there are also unresolved bugs affecting progression.

    Current Deal and Pricing

    According to SteamDB, it is currently 75% off on Steam untill June 25, 2026. Therefore, you can get it for $7.49 instead of $29.99, which is its lowest price.

    Disclaimer About Price Changes

    Disclaimer: We are not responsable for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was availible at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.

     


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  • Ancient Greece 2D Action Game – 75% Off on Steam, Loved by 89% of Players

    Ancient Greece 2D Action Game – 75% Off on Steam, Loved by 89% of Players

    Key Takeaway

    1. Apotheon is a 2D Metroidvania action game set in an ancient Greek-inspired world, where players fight gods and legendary creatures using various weapons.
    2. The game received positive reviews for its story, platforming, combat, and vast, secret-filled world, with 89% of players enjoying it.
    3. It features local multiplayer battles and includes historical and mythological characters, enhancing its replayability and educational appeal.
    4. Despite its strengths, the game has notable issues with bugs, crashes, and control criticisms, impacting some players’ experience.
    5. Currently, it’s available at a discounted price of $3.74 until April 24, 2026.

    Explore Greek Mythology in an Action-Packed Adventure

    Many video games let us step into the shoes of legendary heroes like Achilles, or explore vast, mysterious worlds, but some create entirely different universes. Take for example this 2D action game called Apotheon, which was launch on Steam back on February 3, 2015. Developed by the talented Canadian team Alientrap, it combines Metroidvania game mechanics with an unique artistic style.

    Game Setting and Plot

    Inspired by ancient Greek visual art, this game plunges players into a world where the gods of Olympus have turned their back on humanity. You play as Nikandreos, a determined hero with a growing rage against the divine beings. Your mission is to fight back against the gods and take their divine powers in hopes of creating better future for mankind.

    Combat and Gameplay Mechanics

    Brace yourself for intense battles in this game, now offered for just $3.74 instead of $14.99 until April 24, 2026. The game features epic confrontations against legendary creatures and gods, using a diverse range of weapons like swords, spears, and bows. You won’t be fighting alone either, as the goddess Hera will aid you during your journey.

    Mythology and Multiplayer Features

    Throughout your adventure, you’ll cross paths with numerous mythological heroes and uncover secrets from the Greek mythic era. Additionally, the game offers local multiplayer options, allowing you to challenge friends and test your skills against each other.

    Community Feedback and Critical Reception

    According to Steam reviews, Apotheon has received mostly positive feedback with 89% of the 3,825 players rating it favorably. Reviewers praised the engaging platforming parts, compelling storyline, and a wide array of weapons for combat. The expansive world also provides many hidden secrets for curious players to discover.

    Criticisms and Issues

    However, despite its strengths, over 300 players have left negative reviews citing unresolved bugs like crashes that persist since the game release. Controls have also been a point of complaint, with some users mentioning they feel imprecise or frustrating. As of now, the lowest recorded price was $2.99 on December 19, 2024, according to SteamDB, but it hasn’t fallen below that again yet.

    Note to Consumers

    Disclaimer: The pricing and availability details are subject to change and may vary by retailer. This information was accurate at the time of writing, but can be limited by stock or promotional conditions.

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  • Best Action-Adventure RPG, Loved by 85%, Cheapest on Steam Now

    Best Action-Adventure RPG, Loved by 85%, Cheapest on Steam Now

    Key Takeaway

    1. **Game Setting and Mechanics:** Grime is an action RPG that features exploration of strange worlds, combat with living, mutating weapons, and absorption of defeated enemies to gain abilities, blending Souls-like and Metroidvania elements.
    2. **Story and Atmosphere:** The game involves uncovering your identity in an unearthly 3D universe filled with terrors and dangerous creatures, including challenging boss battles.
    3. **Reception and Critique:** It has a generally positive reception with an 85% approval on Steam and an 81 Metascore, though it faces criticism for lack of innovation in combat and the presence of bugs.

    Explore Strange Worlds in RPGs

    In many role-playing games, gamers get the chance to journey through unusual realms fighting different monsters armed with weird weapons. Some indie titles, like Grime, highlight these gameplay elements. Developed by Clover Bite and published by Akupara Games, it pulls players into a mysterious universe full of dangers and horrors.

    Unveiling the Mystery

    You, the player, take on the role of a strange creature with a black hole where its face should be. The environment, a bizarre 3D universe, takes you through dark caves and exotic lands as you try to discover your real identity. Throughout your path, you’ll bump into creepy creatures, each with their own powers and flaws, which you must learn to use against them. The game offers fighting with alive, mutating weapons that can change during battles, making every fight unpredictable.

    Gameplay and Encounters

    The game lets you absorb defeated enemies’ bodies, unlocking new skills that allow you to tweak your playing style. Only trouble is, bosses that tower above you are waiting to challenge you, requiring clever tactics to beat them. Since launching on August 2, 2021, it gained quite a following, with over 6,300 reviews on Steam, most of which are positive (about 85%). Review sites like Metacritic have also given it a good score, with an overall score of 81 and a user rating of 7.5.

    Strengths and Weaknesses

    Many players praised the game’s universe and the beautiful graphics, which blend Souls-like difficulty with Metroidvania exploration. The fights are tough but fun, though some critics point out that they are not very original, borrowing heavily from other similar games. Plus, the game suffers from lots of bugs—visual glitches and audio issues—some players find frustrating.

    Pricing and Updates

    Currently, it’s available at a low price of just $9.99 on Steam, a discount of 60%, which is valid until April 14, 2026. Normally, it costs $24.99. If you want to give it a try before buying, a demo version is available, and the developers have rolled out four updates, bringing new content and features to keep things fresh.

    Final Notes

    Keep in mind, prices and availability might change, and this deal was accurate at the time of writing. Always check the latest info before making your purchase.

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  • New Metroidvania on Steam: Unique Art, 83% Positive Reviews, Discount

    New Metroidvania on Steam: Unique Art, 83% Positive Reviews, Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release and Unique Style: MIO: Memories in Orbit was launched on January 20, 2026, with a unique comic-book/watercolor design, setting it apart in a crowded genre.

    2. Setting and Character: Players navigate “The Vessel,” a deteriorating ark in space, controlling an android named MIO through diverse environments.

    3. Gameplay Mechanics: MIO features precision-focused Metroidvania mechanics, including a grappling hook and a modular “Modifier” system for enhancing abilities in combat.

    4. Community Feedback: Despite a “Very Positive” rating on Steam, players criticized some design choices that penalize exploration and a plot twist that restricts resource access.

    5. Performance and Accessibility: The game supports 4K and 60 FPS on mid-range PCs and is optimized for Steam Deck with specific visual adjustments for better performance.


    On January 20, 2026, the French independent studio Douze Dixièmes along with publisher Focus Entertainment launched MIO: Memories in Orbit on all major gaming platforms. This release came after a brief one-month delay, which was needed to finalize optimizations for the “Switch 2” and high-end PCs. Even though the genre was already crowded, MIO quickly established its own unique character thanks to its special engine that creates a design reminiscent of a “comic-book/watercolor” style, which players have shown a strong liking for.

    Setting and Gameplay

    The game takes place on “The Vessel,” a deteriorating technological ark that floats through the emptiness of space. Players take control of an android named MIO, who moves through interconnected environments that range from lush overgrown gardens to icy, crumbling city ruins.

    Mechanics and Combat

    MIO is a precision-focused Metroidvania, where movement is characterized by a “hairpin” grappling hook and wall-climbing abilities that resemble a spider’s, requiring exact timing and rhythm. Unlike typical action-platformers, MIO features a modular “Modifier” system that allows players to collect parts from enemies to enhance their abilities. For instance, players can change their grappling hook from a simple movement tool into a lethal lasso or trade shields for powerful projectiles. Combat is often described as “deliberate” and influenced by “Souls” games, but the game does offer assist features that help weaken bosses over several attempts, although it does not include a “skip” option for the hardest battles.

    Community Feedback and Design Choices

    Despite receiving a “Very Positive” overall rating of 87% on Steam, discussions within the community have pointed out several “cruel” design decisions in the later parts of the game. Specifically, there is some discontent over a narrative-driven mechanic that can result in the protagonist permanently losing health points in optional, high-difficulty zones. Critics argue this penalizes exploration, which is a key aspect of the genre. Furthermore, a plot twist in the late game can temporarily lock players out from shopping or using resources.

    The Steam version is quite solid, boasting support for 4K resolutions and 60 FPS even on mid-range setups like the GTX 1650 and Ryzen 3 1300X. For those using a Steam Deck (currently priced at $675 on Amazon), players will find that the game is a “joy to play,” but it does require a specific manual tweak: adjusting the visual settings from “High” to “Medium” for consistent 60 FPS and to limit battery usage to under 12 W. While there are some concerns regarding “pattern-heavy” gameplay, the atmospheric depth of The Vessel alongside the precise movement mechanics has positioned MIO as a strong candidate for one of the top Metroidvanias of 2026 thus far. The game is available for $17.99 on Steam after a 10% launch discount.

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  • Hollow Knight: Silksong 20% Off Everywhere Except Xbox

    Hollow Knight: Silksong 20% Off Everywhere Except Xbox

    Key Takeaways

    1. Discount on Hollow Knight: Silksong: The game is currently available for a 20% discount, priced at $15.99 on PC, PlayStation Store, and Nintendo eShop.

    2. Limited Time Offer for PC Users: The discount for PC sales ends on January 5th, making it crucial for PC gamers to act quickly.

    3. Xbox Users Excluded: Xbox users cannot benefit from the discount, as the game remains priced at $19.99 on the Microsoft and Xbox Store.

    4. High Performance Across Platforms: Silksong runs well on various consoles, with current-gen systems supporting up to 120 FPS and 4K resolution.

    5. Positive Reception and Early Discounts: Despite its challenging difficulty, Silksong has received nearly universal praise, making the early discount appealing to fans.


    Fans of indie Metroidvania games such as Hollow Knight and Axiom Verge might be excited to hear that Hollow Knight: Silksong is currently available for a 20% discount—everywhere! The much-anticipated Silksong is priced at only $15.99 on PC through platforms like Humble Bundle, Steam, and DRM-free GOG. Its price on the PlayStation Store and Nintendo eShop is also set at $15.99. However, since the PC sales are ending on January 5th, console gamers might miss out on this deal too. This sale comes at a great time, especially with the recent announcement of Sea of Sorrow set to release for free next year.

    Xbox Users Left Out

    Oddly enough, there’s one group that can’t take advantage of this festive Silksong discount: Xbox users. On the Microsoft and Xbox Store, Silksong remains at the full price of $19.99 USD. Xbox console owners are still faced with paying full price for one of the most anticipated indie games of 2025. It’s unclear why Xbox is missing out on this deal—whether Team Cherry, the developers, decided to forgo the discount to compensate for potential losses from the game’s presence on PC Game Pass & Game Pass Ultimate or if Microsoft simply didn’t allow it.

    A Game Worth Its Price

    Despite the ongoing issues for Xbox owners, Silksong is widely regarded as an excellent game no matter the platform. It adapts well across different systems, even though it is a 2D game. Last-generation consoles like the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One can only run it at 1080p and 60 FPS. In contrast, current-gen consoles like the Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5 (and Pro), and Xbox Series S/X can enjoy the game at 120 FPS, 4K resolution, or both. For players who haven’t experienced a high-precision 2D action game at 120 Hz, Silksong offers a beautifully smooth visual experience. Plus, PC users have no limits on frame rates except for their monitor’s refresh rate.

    Early Discounts Are Appreciated

    Considering that the game launched at a low price of just $20 earlier this year, and received nearly universal praise except for its challenging difficulty, it’s great to see a discount so soon. While it may not be enough for players hoping for a price below $15, fans of both Silksong and the original Hollow Knight can confirm that these games are indeed worth the investment.

  • New Metroidvania Bomb-Caterpillar Hits 500 Positive Reviews on Steam

    New Metroidvania Bomb-Caterpillar Hits 500 Positive Reviews on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Öoo is a 2D Metroidvania game where players control a caterpillar that uses bombs for movement, combat, and puzzles.
    2. The game features simple pixel-art visuals and has received all positive reviews on Steam shortly after its launch.
    3. Players appreciate the imaginative level design and engaging gameplay, though some note its short playtime and linear structure.
    4. Developed by solo creator NamaTakahashi, Öoo is priced at $10, with a temporary launch discount bringing it to $7.99.
    5. The game supports both mouse and keyboard as well as controllers, and its system requirements suggest compatibility with most modern handheld devices.


    Öoo is a Metroidvania game, which is a 2D platformer inspired by the classic games Metroid and Castlevania. Instead of controlling a typical hero, players take on the role of a caterpillar that grows bombs on its tail. This unique mechanic allows players to utilize the bombs for movement, combat against foes, and to solve various puzzles throughout the game.

    Simple Yet Effective Design

    The game’s concept is quite simple, and its visuals are designed in a basic pixel-art style. These aspects come together to form a game that many Steam users find appealing. Just five days post-launch on August 7, Öoo had already garnered 510 reviews, all of which were positive—a rarity on Steam. Presently, it ranks first in SteamDB’s “Hot Releases” category.

    Player Feedback

    Gamers are praising the imaginative level design and the gratifying “aha” moments that occur during gameplay. The mechanics are easy to grasp yet offer depth, and the game flow is engaging with a charming presentation. While criticism is minimal, a few players have noted the relatively short playtime of about two hours and the low difficulty at the beginning. Additionally, some have observed that the game’s structure feels more linear than what is typical for a Metroidvania.

    Developer Background and Pricing

    Öoo was created by Japanese solo developer NamaTakahashi in partnership with tiny cactus studio and is published under his own name on Steam. The standard price for the game is roughly $10, but a 20% launch discount brings it down to $7.99 until August 14. It works with both mouse and keyboard as well as game controllers. Although the compatibility with the Steam Deck (which is priced at $460 on Amazon) is marked as “Unknown,” the game’s modest system requirements suggest that it should operate well on most modern handheld gaming devices.

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  • Indie Metroidvania with Gravity Flip and Rhythm Combat on Steam

    Indie Metroidvania with Gravity Flip and Rhythm Combat on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Innovative Gravity Mechanics: Players can move across any surface, redefining gravity in gameplay.
    2. Dreamlike Map Design: The connected, exploration-focused map has no clear “up or down,” typical of Metroidvania games.
    3. Nostalgic Art Style: The visuals blend classic PlayStation 1 aesthetics with modern elements like real-time lighting.
    4. Rhythm-Based Combat: Combat requires players to act in time with distinct soundtracks during battles, enhancing engagement.
    5. Mixed Reviews: While the game has a “Very Positive” rating on Steam, some players cite gameplay inconsistencies and weak animations.


    Made by a single indie developer, Metro Gravity takes the idea of gravity and turns it upside down, letting players move across any surface while combining it with precise rhythm-based combat that requires you to act in time with the music.

    Unique Map Exploration

    The design of the map supports this idea, inviting you to discover a dreamlike, connected area that the creator describes as having “no up or down.” Like other games in the Metroidvania genre, you will explore, acquire new skills and abilities, and solve puzzles to move forward.

    Retro Visuals with a Modern Twist

    The game’s art style, which draws inspiration from the classic PlayStation 1 era, aims to evoke a nostalgic feeling while incorporating modern features like real-time lighting and volumetric fog.

    When it comes to fighting, players must hone their skills against a variety of enemies. This is particularly true during boss battles, each featuring its own distinctive soundtrack that compels you to parry, dodge, and strike all in sync with the music.

    Mixed Reviews

    However, it’s not without its flaws. Some players have noted a few inconsistencies in the gameplay, particularly on Steam, and overall, the animation and visual effects are considered the weakest aspects of the game, which is quite understandable.

    The game debuted on Steam earlier this week and has already received a “Very Positive” rating, with 98% of the 64 reviews being favorable. It’s also ranked in the top 10 of the “New and Trending” section on the platform.

  • New 3D Co-op Metroidvania Hits 1M Sales in 2 Weeks, 80% Positive Reviews

    New 3D Co-op Metroidvania Hits 1M Sales in 2 Weeks, 80% Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sales Success: Revenge of the Savage Planet sold 1 million copies within 12 days of its launch on May 20.

    2. Future Updates: Raccoon Logic Studios is working on a roadmap for future game updates, though specifics have not yet been revealed.

    3. Story and Gameplay: The game features a storyline focused on revenge in a corporate-driven future, with gameplay that includes exploration, puzzle-solving, and upgrades across four unique planets.

    4. Reception: The game has received mostly favorable reviews, holding an 80% Positive rating on Steam, praised for its entertainment value, intuitive controls, and overall gameplay experience.

    5. System Compatibility: Revenge of the Savage Planet has reasonable system requirements and is compatible with handheld devices, holding a Gold rating on ProtonDB for performance.


    Revenge of the Savage Planet just launched only 12 days ago, and it appears that the positive reviews surrounding this indie sci-fi Metroidvania were truly warranted. On May 20, Raccoon Logic Studios Inc. shared that it has sold 1 million copies of this new 3D sci-fi platformer since it debuted.

    Future Updates on the Horizon

    In a Steam News announcement confirming this accomplishment, Raccoon Logic Studios, the creators and publishers of Revenge of the Savage Planet, mentioned that the development team is currently working on a roadmap for future game updates. This means more mayhem and excitement will be arriving soon. However, Raccoon Logic has not detailed what those updates will include.

    Story Overview

    “In a future turned upside down by corporate greed and foolishness, you find yourself redundant and deserted on the distant edge of space with limited equipment and no safety net. To exact revenge on your former boss and find your way back to Earth, you’ll need to explore every corner, gather numerous upgrades, and turn over every strange alien rock.”

    This is how Raccoon Logic Studios presents the storyline of Revenge of the Savage Planet. The bright, exaggerated visuals and whimsical character design effectively reflect this narrative. Players can enjoy Revenge of the Savage Planet in single-player mode or through split-screen or online co-op, making it a fantastic option to play with family and friends.

    Reception and Reviews

    While Revenge of the Savage Planet received mostly favorable reviews from gaming and tech outlets, its Steam rating stands at an admirable—yet not astonishing—80% Positive. Many Steam users praise Revenge of the Savage Planet for its entertainment value and for how it expands upon the first game in the series. Reviewers commonly highlight intuitive controls, the design of the world and characters, the overall gameplay experience, and the progression system as notable strengths, along with a light-hearted tone.

    The gameplay resembles that of a classic 3D platformer infused with Metroidvania elements. Players will explore four distinct planets, solve various puzzles, complete quests, gather upgrades, and discover hidden secrets scattered across the landscapes. Each planet features its own unique environment, aesthetic, and local flora and fauna to engage with. Revenge of the Savage Planet adopts a third-person perspective, offering players a variety of weapons and upgrades to keep the experience engaging.

    System Requirements and Compatibility

    Revenge of the Savage Planet also has fairly reasonable system requirements and holds a Gold rating on ProtonDB, indicating it should perform well on the Steam Deck and other handheld gaming devices, such as the Lenovo Legion Go (currently priced at $699.99 from Lenovo).

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  • Lowest Price on Steam: Must-Play for Hollow Knight & Sekiro Fans

    Lowest Price on Steam: Must-Play for Hollow Knight & Sekiro Fans

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Setting and Story: Players explore a world blending Far Eastern mythology with alien technology, uncovering the secrets of nine tyrants called Sols.

    2. Engaging Combat System: The game features a precision-based combat system inspired by Sekiro, focusing on quick reflexes and timing, with mechanics like parrying to gain Qi energy.

    3. Metroidvania Elements: Players unlock new skills and abilities that encourage revisiting areas, revealing hidden paths and optional bosses in an interconnected game world.

    4. Positive Reception: Launched in May 2024 by RedCandleGames, the game received high praise for its visuals, challenging combat, and engaging story, earning a 9/10 from IGN.

    5. Discounted Pricing: Currently priced around $30 on Steam, Nine Sols is offered at a 40% discount until May 12, making it the lowest price available so far.


    In the game Nine Sols, players take on the role of Yi, a warrior from ancient times who wakes up after sleeping for centuries in New Kunlun. This unique world mixes elements of Far Eastern mythology with forgotten alien technology. Yi’s journey is all about finding out the secrets behind the Sols, which are nine god-like tyrants. During the adventure, Yi explores decaying monasteries, polluted industrial zones, and secret sanctuaries. He meets mysterious locals and battles various dangerous enemies, from old machines to corrupted monks. The game showcases beautiful hand-drawn 2D graphics, stylish cutscenes inspired by anime, and a raw sense of brutality. With its powerful soundtrack, Nine Sols creates a deep and engaging atmosphere.

    Engaging Combat System

    Taking clear inspiration from Sekiro, Nine Sols has a combat system that emphasizes precision rather than sheer strength. Players can’t just smash buttons to win; they need quick reflexes, sharp observation skills, and perfect timing. You can parry every enemy attack to gain Qi energy, which Yi can use for strong special moves. A well-timed parry not only prevents damage but also sets the enemy up for a heavy counterattack. The game cleverly combines this tactical combat with a well-structured Metroidvania style. As players advance, they unlock talisman powers that grant new combat and movement abilities, while Qi upgrades enhance the strength of special attacks. The game world is interconnected from the start, encouraging players to revisit areas as new skills reveal hidden paths, optional bosses, and secret zones waiting to be explored.

    Development and Reception

    Nine Sols was designed by RedCandleGames and came out in May 2024. Upon release, IGN’s German review highlighted the game’s challenging combat, stunning visuals, and captivating story, which is straightforward but keeps players engaged with its hidden mysteries. The ability to unlock different skills allows for various play styles, adding depth and making the game more replayable.

    Minor Critiques

    While Nine Sols was overall well-received, reviewers pointed out some small issues. The hitboxes can sometimes be off, making vertical parries feel unreliable. Moreover, the game includes few real platforming challenges, which might disappoint fans of games like Hollow Knight. Despite these minor setbacks, the game’s strong points awarded it a 9 out of 10 from IGN. On Metacritic, Nine Sols has a Metascore of 84 and a User Score of 8.5. Steam users are even more enthusiastic, with 95% of over 24,000 reviews being positive.

    Currently, Nine Sols is typically priced at about $30 on Steam, but until May 12, it is being offered at a 40% discount, lowering the price to under $18. While this deal might not sound amazing at first, it is the best one available so far. As per SteamDB, the previous highest discount was only 30%, which was seen during the Spring Sale in March, making this the lowest price so far.

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