PLAYED ON: PC via PC Game Pass
I’ve been reading a lot of praise for Nine Sols by Red Candle Games and finally decided to try it out. Luckily it was available on PC Game Pass, so I didn’t waste any time getting into it. I’d heard it was a Metroidvania with some Souls-like combat elements and a unique "Taopunk" aesthetic, blending Taoist philosophy with cyberpunk vibes. As someone who loves games that mix beautiful art with challenging gameplay, this seemed like a perfect fit. And for the most part, it delivered. The combat, the world, and the story pulled me in, even if a few things along the way left me scratching my head.
Let’s talk about the combat first because, wow, it’s the heart and soul of the game. Nine Sols feels like a 2D Sekiro (& what most players also agree on), focusing on parrying and timing rather than spamming attacks. It took me a while to get the hang of it, but once I did, every battle felt like a thrilling dance. The Talisman system, where you tag enemies and blow them up for extra damage, added a satisfying layer to fights. Boss encounters, especially, were unforgettable, equal parts frustrating and rewarding. Sure, I died a lot (like, a lot), but the sense of accomplishment after beating a tough boss made it all worth it.
The world of Nine Sols is a visual treat. The game’s Taopunk style creates this fascinating mix of ancient Taoist-inspired designs and sleek cyberpunk tech. Some areas feel serene and traditional, while others are gritty and industrial. It doesn’t always mesh perfectly, but it’s undeniably gorgeous. The hand-drawn art and fluid animations are so good that I’d often stop mid-game just to admire the scenery. The soundtrack, with its mix of traditional Chinese instruments and ambient techno beats, adds to the atmosphere beautifully.
Story-wise, I found myself torn. On one hand, the revenge-driven narrative of Yi, the protagonist, had me hooked. On the other, some of the writing choices like outdated humour and a few clunky character moments, made me cringe. Still, I grew attached to the characters, especially Shuanshuan, the little boy who looks up to Yi. By the end, I was deeply invested in uncovering the mysteries of the Nine Sols and Yi’s role in it all.
Smash Hit Score: 8.5/10
Nine Sols has a few bumps, like a confusing map and some aimless backtracking, but they’re easy to overlook when the rest of the game shines so brightly. It’s one of those experiences that sticks with you; challenging, beautiful, and full of heart. If you’re up for a tough yet rewarding journey through a world unlike anything else, Nine Sols is definitely worth your time.
Screenshots shared above are taken by us during our gameplay
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