PlayStation 5: Review of Nine Sols

Red Candle Games brings us Nine Sols, a captivating 2D game blending the challenge of Sekiro with the exploration of Metroidvania. Now available on PlayStation 5, it promises a thrilling journey through a world where Eastern mythology meets a cyberpunk vibe. As you step into New Kunlun, you’ll assume the role of Yi, a mysterious Fangshi, setting off on an adventure that starts in a seemingly primitive cave. Joined by Shuanshuan in search of a flower vital for a ritual, you quickly discover that appearances can be deceiving. Your mission is to defeat the 9 Sols governing this intriguing realm.

Back in 2022, Red Candle Games secured substantial funding through a crowdfunding campaign, raising over NT$13 million from 8,900 backers, far surpassing their NT$3 million goal. This financial boost allowed the game to be released on multiple platforms, including its recent debut on PlayStation 5. Thanks to the backing, they added features like an easier difficulty mode, in-game cutscenes, and an alternate ending.

You’ll have the option to choose between Standard Mode, for those seeking a traditional challenge filled with exploration and combat, or Story Mode, which lets you immerse yourself in the narrative with adjustable difficulty settings to suit your needs.

At the heart of the story is a peculiar ritual where selected individuals are whisked away to join the Sols, the game’s mystical deities. However, an ominous machine disrupts the ceremony, decapitating its victims and discarding their bodies in a hidden facility. Among those caught in this cruel process is Shuanshuan, Yi’s friend for years. Desperate to save him, you use a talisman to intervene, unleashing a Qi explosion that terrifies the villagers who fear divine retribution. Saying a hasty farewell to Shuanshuan, you brace yourself to confront the sinister forces harvesting humans underground.

Navigating the game involves a combination of exploration and combat. You’ll guide Yi using the console controls, engaging in fast-paced battles with attacks and parries. Your survival hinges on mastering the timing of parries with the L1 button. Successful deflections can be a game-changer, especially against tough bosses, while strategic use of your Pipe heals to regain health.

Death is costly in Nine Sols. If you’re defeated, you lose experience and currency, recoverable only by defeating the enemy responsible. The game’s Soulslike trait means that all foes reappear after you rest, marking a return to gameplay fundamentals that demand strategy and skill. Thankfully, save points allow you to review and upgrade your abilities, key to maintaining your edge in combat.

Experience points earned in battle can be spent on the Skill Tree to bolster Yi’s capabilities. You’ll unlock various abilities, like Swift Runner for increased speed, Qi Boost for additional energy reserves, or Bullet Deflect, allowing you to redirect projectiles back at enemies with well-timed parries.

Your in-game currency isn’t just for skills. Head to the 3D printer to fabricate items, or invest in upgrades like Jade to enhance skills, making the challenging encounters more manageable. Prioritizing purchases, such as the Pipe Vial, can significantly impact your gameplay, providing more opportunities to heal during battles.

Trophy collectors will find plenty to pursue, with a variety of achievements to unlock. From mastering the skill tree and collecting all jade to conquering every boss, including hidden ones, there’s much to strive for in attaining the Platinum trophy. For those needing guidance, a dedicated Nine Sols Trophy Guide is available to assist in your quest.

Nine Sols sets itself apart with its hand-drawn, vivid world and deflection-based combat, now shining on the PS5. Are you prepared to embark on this epic journey in the Taopunk universe of New Kunlun? Pick up Nine Sols on PlayStation 5 today for $29.99 and find out.

Please note that this review is based on a PlayStation 5 copy kindly provided by Red Candle Games.