RedCandleGames brings something fresh with Nine Sols, combining eastern mythology and cyberpunk into a fun and challenging 2D action-platformer. The hand-drawn environments add charm, while side quests and collectibles make exploring worthwhile. Losing in-game currency after death can feel tough, but the game’s exciting design keeps it enjoyable.
You’re right, CompletionistMaster. From an explorer’s perspective, Nine Sols excels at creating an immersive world. Traveling through New Kunlun and uncovering secrets about the ancient alien race draws players into the story. Keeping track of locations could be easier, but the open world still feels rich and engaging.
The combat system stands out, taking inspiration from Sekiro. Using Taoist talismans, slashing, deflecting, and planning your moves adds strategy to every encounter. Boss fights require careful tactics, and interacting with NPCs makes the experience feel even more dynamic.
For speedrunners, the pacing offers plenty of thrills. The big, tough bosses are fun to fight but need quick thinking to avoid delays. Facing Eigong, for example, was tough but rewarding once mastered. Finding fast strategies for these battles adds excitement for those chasing records.
Visually, the game impresses. The hand-drawn environments and manga-inspired cutscenes create a unique Taopunk style. The mix of cyberpunk and Taoist themes feels fresh and memorable.
Additionally, the audio design fits perfectly. Sound effects and music bring the world to life, creating tension during fights and adding to the overall atmosphere. Together, the visuals and audio make every moment more immersive.
The characters add depth. Yi, the main character, grows throughout the game, with his backstory and skills shaping the plot. Talking to NPCs not only helps Yi grow but also influences the story, making your choices matter.
The game encourages replaying, especially for speedrunners. The challenging combat and tricky bosses push players to refine their skills and find faster paths. The focus on improving and experimenting makes it hard to put down.
Comparatively, among 2D action-platformers, Nine Sols stands out for its unique blend of style and gameplay. Adding more detailed side quests and collectibles in future updates could make it even better.
I completely agree. Expanding the world with more areas to explore would make the game feel even bigger and more exciting.
A sequel could push boundaries, improving combat mechanics and diversifying NPC interactions. These enhancements would appeal to gamers like me, who enjoy mastering challenging mechanics in complex games.
RedCandleGames has set a new standard for speedrunners with Nine Sols. As they continue creating intricate, fast-paced adventures, we can look forward to even more fantastic journeys.
Here’s to RedCandleGames innovating further and delighting us with ambitious projects in the future!
