Sifu

Every now and then a special type of game comes about that is completely unique from anything else that's come before, and I'd say that Sifu is that type of game.

This is NOT for those looking for a casual game; Sifu has a steep learning curve that only seems to get more difficult the further you go, but it is so satisfying when you start getting the hang of things! On top of the steller gameplay mechanics, the presentation is top notch! The first three out of five levels are all visual treats (the fourth feels a bit of a step down from the latter) and the bosses have striking designs and distinctive (if a little face-value) personalities. It's a shame not more time was spent developing them and your characters' dynamic, but hey, AA budget so not all beggers can be choosers.

There are also plenty of great references to other media, from The Raid, to Oldboy to even John Wick (maybe?). The games plot itself is basically an homage to a classic Kung Fu film. The antagonists are simple, but very distinctive, and the ageing mechanic to signify how revenge takes its tolls on a person's life is masterfully woven into the game.

However, Sifu isn't flawless. A few negatives: Though presentation and gameplay is great, the English dubbing is pretty awful (play with the Chinese Dub). Replay value is stretched a little far to compensate for its short length, and it can get annoying having to replay the same level over and over due to the perma-death mechanic. Music is awesome, but I have this nagging feeling that it could have been even better - something just feels missing about it.

Overall the game isn't perfect, but it is such an outlier in a market full of clones and duds that the ambition alone to create a game like this is truly admirable.

Can't wait to see what sloclap do next! Perhaps a blend of both Sifu and Absolver?