Nine Sols: A Taopunk Souls-like Platformer That Defies Expectations
Nine Sols, a 2D souls-like platformer developed by Red Candle Games, is poised for release on Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles. Producer Shihwei Yang recently highlighted the game's unique qualities, differentiating it from other titles in the genre.
A Unique Blend of Eastern Philosophy and Cyberpunk Aesthetics
Nine Sols' distinctive identity stems from its "Taopunk" aesthetic, a fusion of Eastern philosophies, particularly Taoism, and cyberpunk elements. The game's visual style draws inspiration from iconic 80s and 90s anime and manga such as Akira and Ghost in the Shell, capturing the futuristic cityscapes, neon lights, and human-technology interplay. Yang emphasizes the deliberate blending of futuristic tech with a nostalgic yet modern artistic flair.
This aesthetic extends to the audio design, seamlessly integrating traditional Eastern musical elements with modern instrumentation. The result is a soundscape that's both ancient and futuristic, contributing significantly to the game's unique atmosphere.
Innovative Deflection-Based Combat
While initially inspired by titles like Hollow Knight, Nine Sols' combat system ultimately diverged. The developers rejected a straightforward approach, opting instead for a deflection-heavy system reminiscent of Sekiro. However, Nine Sols' combat emphasizes a calmer, more deliberate approach rooted in Taoist philosophy, rewarding players for skillful deflection and maintaining balance. This unique mechanic, rarely seen in 2D games, required extensive development and iteration.
This innovative combat system, coupled with the game's captivating visuals and narrative themes exploring the conflict between nature and technology, and the meaning of life and death, creates a truly unique gaming experience. The game's development organically shaped its narrative, resulting in a cohesive and compelling story. The result is a game that stands out from the crowd.
