Valfaris: Mecha Therion is a sequel that builds upon the brutal foundations laid by its predecessor, Valfaris, with a brand new take on the side-scrolling shoot ‘em up genre. Developed by Steel Mantis and published by Big Sugar, this game doesn’t just continue the story of Therion’s vendetta against Lord Vroll, it also introduces a powerful mecha suit, allowing players to unleash even more devastation in their quest for revenge. We checked it out on a PlayStation 5.
Narratively, Valfaris: Mecha Therion is straightforward but effective. The plot picks up right after the events of the first game, with Therion still on the hunt for Lord Vroll. The introduction of the Mecha Therion suit is a solid narrative device that seamlessly ties into the gameplay, giving Therion the firepower he needs to take on even stronger enemies. The story is delivered with the same heavy metal flair that characterized the original, with a dark and gritty atmosphere that suits the game’s intense action extremely well.
The gameplay in Mecha Therion features a transition from the more traditional 2D run-and-gun mechanics of the first game to a 2.5D side-scrolling shoot ’em up. Players can now pilot the Mecha Therion, a formidable suit equipped with an arsenal of destructive weapons. The game offers a satisfying variety of weaponry, from destroyer-class cannons to auxiliary weapons that can be upgraded using Blood Metal. This customization keeps the combat dynamic and engaging, as players can experiment with different weapon combinations to suit their playstyle.
Another interesting feature of the game is its Challenge Mode, which introduces a roguelike element by giving players lives instead of a traditional health bar. This mode ramps up the difficulty, requiring players to carefully manage their resources while navigating through increasingly tough levels. It’s a mode that rewards skill and precision, but can also be frustrating for those unprepared for its unforgiving nature, so you may want to start elsewhere.
Visually, Valfaris: Mecha Therion retains the striking, heavy metal-inspired aesthetic of its predecessor, but with a noticeable upgrade in the graphical department. The 2.5D environments are richly detailed, full of alien landscapes and industrial carnage that fit with the game’s tone. The enemy designs are grotesque and imaginative, adding to the sense of dread as you progress through the levels. The audio design, featuring a pounding metal soundtrack, further enhances the game’s intense atmosphere, making every encounter feel like an epic battle – though some will certainly consider it to be an acquired taste.
Valfaris: Mecha Therion’s difficulty spikes can be harsh, especially in the Challenge Mode, which may alienate players looking for a more balanced experience. Additionally, while the mecha combat is exhilarating, the game occasionally struggles with pacing, particularly in sections where the level design feels repetitive. These issues don’t drastically detract from the overall experience, which remains great, but they do prevent the game from reaching its full potential.
In conclusion, Valfaris: Mecha Therion is a worthy sequel that successfully evolves the series with its introduction of mecha combat and a more complex gameplay structure. It’s a game that will appeal to fans of the original and newcomers alike, offering a visceral and satisfying action experience. While it’s difficulty in places, the game’s intense combat, strong visual and audio design, and engaging new mechanics make it a standout title in the side-scrolling shoot ‘em up genre.
Score: 8.3/10
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