Dotemu with the Absolum demo fuses the elements of the side scrolling beat ’em up with that of the roguelite, along with other interesting ideas.
Absolum is a product that seems to combine two main genres which are beat ’em up and action roguelite.
It’s not the first time that Dotemu has ventured into the field of beat ’em ups. Just remember some of his works such as Streets of Rage 4 (2020), TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge (2022), not to mention MARVEL Cosmic Invasion (announced for this year).
Today, however, we will talk about Absolum and how Dotemu has taken advantage of past experiences to develop a synthesis of various genres.
This new IP is not only the result of Dotemu, but makes use of the collaboration of Guard Crush, already a collaborator at the time for the combat gameplay of Street of Rage 4, and Supamonks for the animations and the graphic/aesthetic component.
The Absolum demo offers the entire first region of the game and 3 of the 4 playable characters, one of which is unlockable during the demo.
Let’s see how the incipit of the plot, the gameplay, and the construction of the map develops.
The fight against Azra’s legions
In Absolum we are a handful of rebels fighting the forces of Azra. A terrible creature who has laid waste to the entire region, spread war and forbidden magic.
As the demo begins we see 2 of the playable characters. Galandra and Karl, assault a team of Azra’s forces carrying with them a precious cargo: Mother Uchawi.
This phase of the game involves the simultaneous action of the characters. One controlled by us and the other by the CPU, which is not possible later except in Co-Op.
His liberation also represents lore’s justification for resurrecting after each defeat.
Shortly after freeing her we will face a challenge beyond our possibilities and we will have our first encounter with this entity who, once we become his disciples, will guarantee us to be reborn and fight again.
Here we also explore the central Hub, which will be enriched as we progress with the adventure.
A combat system that is more complex than it appears
In Absolum, the 3 fighters we use, although differentiated in characterization and combos, share the same core mechanics.
Each character has a basic attack, a special attack, a dash, a jump and a grab on the opponent. Obviously the basic attack and special attack change from character to character, each with their own strengths.
The combos also vary depending on whether the attack is carried out while jumping or running. So you have to understand how and when to use them.
The game places importance on making as many combos as possible, rewarding the player and with mechanics that launch the opponent into the air. So as to make him bounce to the edge of the screen and be able to continue the streak of combos.
The dash and the special attack have additional mechanics.
The dash with the right timing can deflect the opponent’s slashes or respond with an enhanced basic attack after a perfect dodge.
The special attack can, also with tighter timing, counteract enemies’ powerful blows. This is a more dangerous but more rewarding choice, especially with bosses.
This also involves visual inputs of enemy attacks. You can learn the opponent’s timing and be careful when the visual signal is red, because it is unstoppable.
Furthermore, carrying out these mechanics allows the player to “break” the opponent’s posture. Fundamental against bosses because it makes them helpless and more vulnerable for a short period of time.
In addition to all this there are the Magic Arts and the Ultra.
The former cost mana which is recovered by hitting enemies, while the latter is a unique move which is obtained by reaching deep enough in the first game area and consumes a rare object to be able to be used.
Roguelite and map elements
The playable map is the first area of the game and in a way represents a great tutorial. Don’t be fooled, the game doesn’t take you by the hand and especially at the beginning. Considering the fact that it is not at all easy to find cures.
Our goal will always be to get to the final boss of the region, the best part is the path you can choose with the discoveries you make.
Optional bosses, shortcuts, hidden streets, a variety of enemies and NPCs to encounter. This also involves optional quests and finding certain items to open a passage or complete a mission.
All this makes the various areas extremely replayable and pushes the player to explore new paths and new solutions.
Already tackling areas with different characters allows you to unlock certain events, increasing the desire and sense of discovery towards the map.
Each area has a different symbol and contains various complex scenarios that can vary from one another. Once all the enemies have been defeated we will obtain the reward: an object, money, crystals to spend in the central Hub or the choice between different skills to enhance the character.
Depending on the area undertaken, we will encounter a specific boss who, once defeated, will improve one of the character’s peculiar characteristics.
Once the game is over you always return to the Hub where you can upgrade different aspects of the 3 characters thanks to the materials collected.
Care of aesthetics and sound
Last but not least is the graphics, the artistic direction and the sound commentary.
Absolum takes care and the amount of detail on the screen is remarkable. Despite everything, the parts are balanced and are never excessive.
Usually in this genre it is easy to lose track of the situation due to too much “confusion” on the screen and also suffer unavoidable damage.
Absolum is not completely exempt from this because it is still a direct descendant of the classic beat ’em ups. Despite everything, the visual cleanliness is remarkable and gives immersion to the experience.
The audio sector is no exception: evocative and very refined. The game boasts a soundtrack by composer Gareth Coker (Ori, Halo Infinite, Prince of Persia), also the result of collaborations with Yuka Kitamura (Dark Souls, Elden Ring), Mick Gordon (Doom Eternal, Atomic Heart) and other artists.
What else to say? Try the demo available for a few more weeks on STEAM in local Co-Op or even online.
