Review of Nine Sols for PlayStation 5

Nine Sols, the latest offering from Red Candle Games, hits PlayStation 5 with a compelling blend of challenging gameplay and stunning hand-drawn visuals. Drawing inspiration from Sekiro, this Metroidvania adventure captivates players with its dynamic deflection-based combat system. Let’s dive into this fascinating journey set in the Taopunk realm of New Kunlun, where Eastern mythology meets cyberpunk flair, as you get set to explore as Yi, a mysterious Fangshi.

The story kicks off in a cave with your companion Shuanshuan, searching for a ritual flower. At first glance, the surroundings might seem traditional, almost primitive, but there’s a richer narrative woven beneath. As you progress, the mission becomes clear: defeat the domineering 9 Sols ruling this realm.

Originally planned as a Kickstarter project back in 2022, the game surpassed its goal of NT$3,000,000, thanks to over 8,900 supporters who raised more than NT$13,000,000. The initial release on Steam in May set the stage, and now Nine Sols shines on the PS5. The additional funds allowed for new features, including an easier difficulty setting, a captivating in-game cutscene, and an alternate ending.

Players have two difficulty modes: the standard mode for those seeking a traditional challenge with intricate combat and vast exploration, and a Story Mode introduced via crowdfunding stretch goals. In Story Mode, the focus leans more on narrative enjoyment with adjustable combat and enemy difficulty settings.

The narrative intensifies during a ceremony where chosen ones are sent to live with the Gods, the Sols. However, an ominous twist emerges as a sinister machine begins to behead these chosen individuals, sending their bodies to a concealed facility. Your friend Shuanshuan is among these unfortunate souls. In a desperate bid to save him, you activate your talisman, halting the deadly device just in time.

In this tense sequence, a Qi explosion shatters the helmet constricting Shuanshuan, frightening the villagers who fear divine retribution. After parting ways with Shuanshuan, you use your hacking skills to take the lift into the dark heart of the facility, ready to confront the malevolent forces at play.

Controlling Yi involves using the left analog stick for movement, X for jumping, R2 for dashing, and Square for attacking. The Circle button serves dual functions: interacting with characters and activating devices, as well as deploying your hook during jumps to latch onto specific spots. Be vigilant for vertical surfaces adorned with oozing tendrils; they allow Yi to wall run, crucial for navigating the environment.

Master the art of deflection-based combat by parrying with L1; timing is essential to parry perfectly and avoid harm, although even unsuccessful parries offer some Qi recovery. This Qi becomes a weapon as you attach it to enemies with R1, executing a powerful dash attack. Additional strategies include healing with the Pipe (up on the D-Pad) and sending the Mystic Nymph through narrow passages with L2 to tackle hidden puzzles.

Death in Nine Sols is unforgiving. All experience and currency are dropped upon demise. Unlike typical Soulslikes, recovery depends on defeating the specific foe that bested you last—fail, and your haul is lost forever. Saving and resting resurrects all foes, so plan wisely at these checkpoints, leveraging them to review and enhance your Skill Tree for better survivability.

Leveling up by conquering foes awards Skill Points for unlocking various boosts in the Skill Tree. These include faster running speeds, increased Qi capacity, and the ability to deflect projectiles back to enemies—an invaluable skill for offsetting adversaries’ attacks.

Currency has its own unique role, spent at a 3D printer to craft items and upgrade abilities. Investing in Jade enhances skills, with upgrades such as the Ricochet Jade equipping you to rebound projectiles with more forgiving timing. But first, prioritize acquiring the Pipe Vial to extend your healing capacity—a lifeline in prolonged battles.

Trophies abound, with a full set leading to a coveted Platinum trophy. Challenges include mastering every skill, collecting all Jades, defeating each formidable boss (including hidden ones), and completing the game on Standard Mode. There are also secret trophies to uncover, for which a Trophy Guide can provide assistance.

Overall, Nine Sols promises a rigorous and captivating journey as a hand-drawn 2D Sekiro-inspired Metroidvania with deflection-centered combat specifically made for the PlayStation 5. Explore the richly designed Taopunk world of New Kunlun, merging traditional Eastern themes with futuristic cyberpunk allure. As you take on the role of Yi along with Shuanshuan in their quest, you’re challenged to conquer the 9 Sols. Ready for the task? Nine Sols is now available on PlayStation 5, featuring a $29.99 price tag, waiting for adventurous souls to dive into its depths.

This review of Nine Sols was based on a PlayStation 5 copy provided by Red Candle Games.