Absolver, developed by Sloclap and released in 2017, isn’t your typical action RPG. It ditches the familiar fantasy swords and sorcery for a unique blend of martial arts combat, deep character customization, and a world steeped in mystery. Imagine Dark Souls meets a Kung Fu movie – that’s Absolver in a nutshell.
A World Forged in Combat: The Lands of the Adal Empire
The story takes place within the decaying remains of the Adal Empire, once ruled by powerful warriors known as Absolvers. These martial masters were tasked with upholding justice and balance. But time has passed, and the empire lies in ruin, ravaged by a mysterious event that scattered the Absolvers to the winds. You play as one such Absolver, awakened from slumber with fragmented memories of your past. Driven by a need to understand your purpose and the fate of the empire, you embark on a journey across diverse environments, battling ruthless opponents and unraveling the secrets buried beneath centuries of dust and decay.
Master of the Fist: Combat System and Customization
The heart of Absolver lies in its innovative combat system. Forget button mashing; this game demands precision, timing, and an understanding of intricate combos and defensive maneuvers.
Every punch, kick, block, and parry requires careful consideration. You learn to read your opponent’s attacks, exploiting openings and weaving together devastating sequences.
Absolver offers a deep and satisfying customization system that allows you to truly shape your fighting style:
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Combat Styles: Choose from various combat styles, each with unique strengths and weaknesses: Kahl is agile and focused on offense; Forsaken focuses on powerful counterattacks; Supa’s power lies in its sweeping attacks.
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Weapon Combinations: Mix and match different weapons, like the quick-striking daggers or the heavy-hitting warhammer. Experiment to find the perfect balance for your playstyle.
Combat Style | Strengths | Weaknesses |
---|---|---|
Kahl | High speed and agility | Lower damage output |
Forsaken | Powerful counterattacks | Requires precise timing |
Supa | Devastating attacks | Slow movement and limited range |
Unveiling the Secrets: Multiplayer and Progression
Absolver encourages player interaction through its unique online infrastructure. The game features a persistent world where you encounter other players, forging alliances or engaging in fierce duels.
You can also join “Schools,” groups of players dedicated to specific combat styles. Sharing knowledge, training together, and ultimately battling for dominance against rival Schools adds another layer of depth and competition to the experience.
A Feast for the Senses: The Art Direction and Soundtrack
Visually, Absolver impresses with its minimalist yet striking art style. The environments are rich in detail, seamlessly blending decaying architecture with vibrant natural landscapes.
The soundtrack complements the atmosphere perfectly. It features a mix of haunting melodies and driving percussion that underscores the intensity of combat encounters.
Absolver is not for the faint of heart. Its steep learning curve and demanding combat system may initially frustrate some players. However, those who persevere will be rewarded with an incredibly satisfying and immersive experience. It’s a game that celebrates martial arts philosophy and encourages mastery through practice and dedication.
So, if you’re looking for a unique action RPG that challenges your reflexes and strategic thinking while immersing you in a world of captivating lore and breathtaking visuals, then Absolver is definitely worth checking out!