Nine Sols review: Taopunk action-platformer with parry combat and exploration
Nine Sols, from Red Candle Games, is a hand-drawn 2D action-platformer that sends a vengeful hero through the Taopunk city of New Kunlun to challenge nine powerful rulers. The game combines fast platforming with a deflection-focused combat loop that converts successful parries into Qi for talismans and a ranged godly bow, while players explore interconnected Metroidvania regions. It targets fans of demanding, parry-centric action who value narrative depth alongside precise combat.
What kind of game is Nine Sols?
In this game you control Yi, a vengeance-driven protagonist navigating an interconnected Metroidvania world called New Kunlun. Core activity alternates exploration and combat, with ability-based progression unlocking new areas and traversal options. The loop stresses encounter design that funnels exploration into boss arenas and sanctuary hubs. The game frames progression around narrative beats delivered through animated cutscenes and graphic-novel sequences, reinforcing motivation for revisiting prior zones.
How does combat shape the player's session?
Inside the combat, encounters rely on a Sekiro-inspired, deflection-focused system that emphasizes timed parries and rhythm over button-mashing. Successful deflections build Qi, which the player spends on Taoist talisman attacks and a long-range bow, creating a risk-reward cadence. Boss fights against each of the nine rulers present distinct mechanics, so mastery of timing and resource management becomes the primary mechanical objective across encounters.
What does the game look and feel like?
Inside New Kunlun the presentation centers on meticulously hand-drawn 2D backgrounds and fluid character animations influenced by anime and manga. Story moments use animated cutscenes and graphic-novel panels to transmit lore and philosophy. The title supports controllers, including Xbox and PlayStation gamepads, and is Steam Deck Verified, which preserves the visual fidelity and control mapping on portable hardware without forcing PC-only inputs.
Is it hard to get started?
During early play the combat rewards precise timing, which creates a steep but learnable entry curve for players unfamiliar with parry-centric systems. The game offers a Story Mode with adjustable difficulty settings for those preferring narrative focus, while default modes demand practice to read enemy tells and chain deflections. Exploration ties to ability unlocks, so progression alternates deliberate combat training with backtracking to access gated regions.
A demanding, artful choice for skill-focused players
The game is a demanding, artful choice for players who enjoy skill-based action paired with layered storytelling. However, player reports and reviewer notes cite a significant difficulty spike at the final boss that can limit completion for some. On balance, the title rewards commitment and suits players willing to accept a challenging endgame in exchange for a richly staged single-player experience.
