Salt and Sanctuary is a 2D action role-playing game developed by Ska Studios. It takes heavy inspiration from the souls-like genre, delivering a dark and unforgiving experience. In this review, we'll dive into the game's mechanics, world design, and overall gameplay.
At first glance, Salt and Sanctuary may appear to be a simple 2D platformer. However, it quickly becomes clear that it offers much more depth and complexity. The game introduces you to a grim and atmospheric world, filled with secrets to uncover and enemies to defeat.
One of the standout features of Salt and Sanctuary is its robust character customization system. Players can choose from a variety of different classes, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. This allows for a great deal of replayability as you can experiment with different builds and strategies.
The combat in Salt and Sanctuary is brutal and challenging. Every encounter requires careful timing, precise dodges, and well-executed attacks. The game's boss fights are particularly intense and will test your skills to the limit. However, the feeling of satisfaction when you finally overcome a tough enemy is incredibly rewarding.
The world design in Salt and Sanctuary is masterfully crafted. It is interconnected and nonlinear, reminiscent of the Metroidvania genre. As you progress through the game, you'll unlock new areas and shortcuts, creating a sense of exploration and discovery. The level of detail in the environments is impressive, with each location having its own unique atmosphere and aesthetic.
Despite its strengths, Salt and Sanctuary does have a few shortcomings. The difficulty level can be quite steep, which may deter some players. Additionally, the lack of a map can make navigation challenging, especially in the sprawling and complex world.
In terms of visuals and audio, Salt and Sanctuary excels. The hand-drawn art style is beautiful and matches the game's dark tone perfectly. The haunting soundtrack adds to the overall atmosphere, immersing you in the world of Salt and Sanctuary.
Overall, Salt and Sanctuary is a must-play for fans of the Metroidvania and souls-like genres. Its challenging gameplay, intricate world design, and deep character customization make for an engrossing and rewarding experience. However, be prepared for a steep learning curve and a sense of constant danger. Salt and Sanctuary earns an impressive 9 out of 10 rating from us.
