Review of Nine Sols for PlayStation 5

Red Candle Games’ Nine Sols offers an enticing, yet formidable 2D adventure for PlayStation 5 enthusiasts. Inspired heavily by Sekiro, this Metroidvania game weaves deflection-based combat into its gameplay, all within a hand-drawn aesthetic. In our review, we explore what makes this challenging journey so captivating.

Landing players into the Taopunk universe of New Kunlun, Nine Sols merges Eastern mythology with cyberpunk vibes. The protagonist, Yi, steps out as a mysterious Fangshi in a world that’s far from what it first appears. Alongside Shuanshuan, who seeks a mystical flower for an ancient ritual, you embark on a quest to confront the nine Sols ruling this realm.

Back in 2022, the project gained momentum through a crowdfunding campaign, initially seeking NT$3,000,000. Thanks to the overwhelming support of 8,900 backers, the campaign soared to NT$13,000,000, allowing the developers to elevate the game with stretch goals like an easier Story Mode, new cutscenes, and an alternate ending. Initially released on Steam in May, Nine Sols now lands on PlayStation 5.

Gamers can choose between two difficulty settings: the original Standard Mode, designed for a rewarding challenge, or the Story Mode, which allows players to focus more on the narrative, with combat difficulty adjustable to preference.

In the story, a ritual promises the chosen ones a place with the Gods, known as Sols, but things take a grim turn. Malicious machinery seizes these selected few, and among them is your friend Shuanshuan. In a desperate effort to save him, you disrupt the process, invoking wrath from the Gods and launching you into a fight against dark forces.

Exploration is key, with Yi maneuvered via the left analog stick, jumping with X, dashing with R2, and swinging his sword with Square. Combat is nuanced, requiring timely parrying with L1 for deflecting enemy strikes or risk taking damage while gathering Qi for powerful counterattacks.

Losing a battle means forfeiting all experience and currency, with a chance to reclaim them from your vanquisher. However, bear in mind that resting revives everyone, akin to familiar Soulslike mechanics. At these points, you’re also free to strategize by exploring the Skill Tree for valuable upgrades.

Experience gained from vanquishing foes rewards you with Skill Points to unlock abilities such as Swift Runner, Qi Boost, and Bullet Deflect, which are pivotal in battle. Resources gathered throughout the game allow crafting at a 3D printer, including Ricochet Jade to enhance defensive skills or a Pipe Vial for healing more frequently.

Achievement hunters will enjoy the extensive trophy list featuring a Platinum trophy among others. Challenges include mastering the Skill Tree, slaying bosses, and uncovering secret trophies and completing the campaign on the Standard difficulty.

For those keen to check it out, Nine Sols delivers a visually stunning and challenging experience on the PS5 PLATFORM, priced at $29.99. Immerse yourself in a world where ancient myths and futuristic elements collide, and see if you’re up to toppling the nine rulers.

PS4Blog.net handled this review with a PS5 copy supplied by Red Candle Games.