Absolum is a fresh masterpiece crafted by Guard Crush Games, famed developers of Streets of Rage 4, in collaboration with publisher Dotemu. This collaboration marks Dotemu’s first venture into original IPs, with the creative flair of Supamonks’ hand-drawn animation and the talented Gareth Coker’s captivating soundtrack setting the stage for an unforgettable gaming experience. Having spent an hour exploring this ambitious project, it’s clear that Absolum promises to be a standout in the roguelite genre.
Set within a side-scrolling beat-’em-up action-RPG format, Absolum is engineered for an engaging and replayable experience, with elements such as branching paths, intriguing quests, and ominous bosses. The game boasts multiple player classes; my hands-on session featured the stout Karl, a tank-like dwarf, and Galandra, a lithe ranger with a penchant for swordcraft—both bringing their unique flair to an enchanting fantasy world rife with evil creatures and crumbling environments waiting to be discovered.
For retro enthusiasts, Absolum evokes nostalgic images reminiscent of Saturday morning cartoons, combined with the strategic depth of a modern roguelite. Its combat system, though seemingly straightforward with just two buttons, allows nuanced strategies and combos, adapting to enemy types and individual playstyles. And with the added layer of roguelite mechanics, Absolum ensures a fresh approach every run, filled with hidden power-ups and unique treasures that both aid and challenge players along their journey.
Emphasizing co-op play, Absolum hearkens back to the golden age of two-player arcade gaming. The thrill of teaming up to tackle towering bosses with precariously large health bars is perfectly encapsulated here, with the game shining brilliantly in co-operative mode, awaiting players to rediscover the joys of shared sofa-gaming experiences.
A dynamic risk-reward system adds depth, as power-ups span both temporary boosts and passive enhancements, urging players to adapt their strategies on the fly. Decisions become even more critical with items like twin damage-boosting, health-compromising orbs compelling players to weigh offense versus survival carefully.
While the initial build didn’t allow access to the in-game shop necessary for upgrading between runs, the potential of Absolum to carve a niche in beating the co-op desert of recent years can’t be overstated. It bears the promise of a challenging yet gratifying game peppered with an array of co-op opportunities sorely missed in contemporary gaming.
Absolum sits on the cusp of innovation within the beat-’em-up realm. With further development, it’s destined to join the ranks of genre-defining classics. For fans of couch co-op adventures and thrilling fantasy escapades alike, suffice it to say that your patience will be rewarded. This project is gearing up to be a jewel worth waiting for in the gaming community.
