Sclash is a plug’n play 2D samurai fighting game that includes its own story mode. The artwork and stage designs are very impressive. The fight scenes seemed like something out of Kabuki theater or an intense round of Darkest Dungeon. This is definitely a game for my left-handed friends when a controller is not available. Despite some carpal tunnel, I would recommend taking a look at this title.
The story starts with some history between two clans led by powerful samurai, endowed with powers from the gods they serve. A conflict ensues between these factions and has gone on for so long that the rivalry is now a natural part of life. A young samurai enters the scene and is eager to prove himself and to bring glory to the clan through battle. When the opportunity arises, things take a turn. The black and white reality fades to grey and war is made out to be more complicated than dealing with traitors in masks. As our hero’s faith in his master’s crusade is doubted, a new path awaits in exile.
The first chapter is a good tutorial and helps flesh out some of the major characters in the cast. What makes combat so terrifying and intense is that one single hit kills you (dramatically). Most enemies will KO after one slash of your katana. The major encounters require you to land a hit on your opponent three times. You need to be mindful of your stamina as you dance with your sword. You can attack, which can vary in technique depending which direction you are moving. You can block/parry incoming blows. You can knock the enemy back, breaking their foothold. Best of all, you can dodge, which allows for changing your position on the stage.
I appreciate the controls are enabled for keyboard warriors, and I am looking for my controller so I can experience the game with greater ease. You need to use the WASD keys and FGHQE keys for combat. Stretch your fingers out and give that a try! I have died many times because of my non-dominant hand’s response time. You get used to it fairly quickly, though. The fights do feel like elegant swordplay after a while. I enjoy dueling in most of the cases I’ve played.
The soundtrack and score are great. I thought it was appropriate for the background as we ran through this beautifully painted world. I get excited every time swords collide as time slows down and the vibrato from clashing swords echoes for only a moment before needing to make the next move. The voice acting is also well done and appreciated. I was not expecting a voiceover, but I welcome adding voices to the characters; it feels like a full picture.
Considering this is a 2D world, I can’t really say there is a strong exploration feature, as we only walk in one of two directions at a time. It is a linear progression across the stage. What you see is what you’re getting, so there are not many surprises. I think this title earns itself a 8.5/10 for what it offers. I don’t think there is much room for replayability outside of plug’n play scenarios.
Sclash is available for PC via Steam.
Related: Reviews by John Pruitt
I like to think of myself as the average Joe who grew up alongside video games. I have fun playing strategy games, RPGs, shooters, sandboxes, the whole shebang! Every game provides an experience whether it strikes you as profound, mundane, or someplace in between. I'd like to weigh in my two cents before you spend a single penny.
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