2D Side scrolling action games are an endangered species on consoles, arguably the birthplace of this genre. That is fact, for proof just look at the lack of this genre on the store shelves at the local game store. On PC’s though, this genre is flourishing nicely, especially in the indie community- for proof just look at just about any digital store such as Steam or Desura. One such game, Shadowcrypt by One Bit Punch Games, is in the works and is squarely in this retro genre. Mixing Zelda II’s side scrolling motif with Castlevania challenge and austhetics, Shadowcrypt is coming along nicely.

Shadowcrypt is a throwback title to the olden days when challenge and gameplay took front seat to graphics (though Shadowcrypt is not exactly slouching here either). The art style is slightly better than you would expect from PC games from the late 90’s, if they weren’t so enamored with 3D this and 3D that. That sets up Shadwocrypt for just the right era of gaming, a time when a good old fashioned 2D side scrolling dungeon crawl would have rocked, it still will so don’t worry. Gamers haven’t changed, there just are a lot more of us in the world.

Shadowcrypt focuses on tactical use of a sword and shield, both upgradeable as you play. This is not a hack and slash, 2D Diablo, where the button mashing will win the day. No, here, you have to use tactics, your brain and actually defend yourself- that shield is not just arm candy here.

Much like role playing games in general, enemies will drop weapons, powerups and the like. That means, defeating the enemy is more beneficial, in most cases, than avoiding them. Finding the Necromancer won’t be easy since he has stacked the halls in his favor.

Currently there are over 70 rooms planned for Shadowcrypt. Some rooms are only lit by a single light source, the one you are producing, while others are lit by torches on the walls. The problem is, in the darkness lurks the enemy, waiting with baited breath for a taste of human flesh- your flesh.

Shadowcrypt by One Bit Punch Games
Platform: PC
Genre: 2D Side Scrolling Action RPG
Rated: Unknown at this time
Available: When it is finished
Source: IndieDB.com

Carl Williams

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