Nine Sols, crafted by Red Candle Games, offers a tough yet captivating 2D hand-drawn adventure on the PlayStation 5. This game bears the influence of Sekiro and adopts a Metroidvania framework with combat that centers heavily around deflection. Set in the Taopunk universe of New Kunlun, Nine Sols combines elements of Eastern mythology with a distinct cyberpunk style. You step into the shoes of Yi, an enigmatic Fangshi, embarking on a journey that starts in a seemingly ordinary cave. There, you’re joined by Shuanshuan, who is in search of a unique flower needed for a ritual. However, appearances can be deceiving as this world holds secrets aplenty. Your quest involves vanquishing 9 Sols, the rulers of the realm.
Back in 2022, Red Candle Games launched a successful crowdfunding campaign that sought NT$3,000,000 for the project. Over 8,900 enthusiastic backers rallied, pushing the funding past NT$13,000,000. Initially launched on Steam in May, Nine Sols now ventures onto the PS5. Thanks to the additional funds, the developers were able to introduce new features, including an easier difficulty mode, an intriguing in-game cutscene, and an alternative ending.
Players can select between two difficulty modes: the Standard Mode, which maintains the original challenging experience, and Story Mode, a result of the crowdfunding stretch goals. Story Mode is tailored for those more interested in the narrative, allowing players to adjust damage levels dynamically to dial down the combat intensity.
In the game’s plot, a ceremony sends chosen individuals to live with the Sols, the ruling deities. An unexpected twist occurs when a sinister device begins claiming the chosen ones, severing their heads and discarding their bodies into a secret facility. Shuanshuan, your companion for years, is one of those selected for this grim fate. Acting quickly, you utilize your talisman to save him from imminent death.
The game’s mechanics require deft control of Yi, using the left analog stick for movement while fighting and navigating with intuitive button commands. The combat centers around deflecting attacks with the L1 button, demanding precise timing to parry successfully. Collect Qi for special moves and use the R1 button to inflict severe damage on foes by dashing through them. Strategic use of the environment, like walls with wavy tentacles, becomes crucial as you advance.
Survival necessitates mastering the deflection-based combat system and managing your health with strategically timed use of your Pipe. Each death results in the loss of experience and money, which can only be recovered by defeating the adversary who vanquished you.
As you defeat enemies, you gain experience points, leading to Skill Points that can be spent on enhancing Yi’s abilities. Choose skills wisely to improve your odds in encounters, like Swift Runner for increased speed or Qi Boost for more potent attacks. Spending your in-game currency at a 3D printer offers upgrades and useful items like the Pipe Vial, enhancing your healing capabilities.
The game is packed with a comprehensive list of trophies, including a coveted Platinum, available to those who master all aspects of the game. You’ll need to tackle every boss, unravel all the secrets, and complete the game on Standard Mode to achieve this.
Nine Sols is undoubtedly a visually stunning 2D Metroidvania that melds influences from Sekiro into its combat. Set within the rich Taopunk world, it promises an engaging blend of story and gameplay challenges. Priced at $29.99, it offers a robust experience for PlayStation 5 players eager to explore its depths.
This review was crafted based on a PlayStation 5 copy provided by Red Candle Games.
