As we enter a season full of high profile releases, we still want to shine our spotlight on the many interesting indie games that we see coming out. We’re checking out three of them today, as we review Bloodless, Iron Meat and Operation: Polygon Storm.
Bloodless review (PC)
Bloodless, developed by Point N’ Sheep and published by 3D Realms, offers a new (and consider 3D Realms’ past catalogue rather surprising) twist on the action-adventure genre with its focus on non-lethal combat set against the backdrop of the atmospheric lands of Bakugawa. The game follows the journey of Tomoe, a ronin haunted by her past, who returns to her homeland to confront her former master, Shogun Akechi. The aim is to do this without shedding any more blood, and the story is deeply intertwined with themes of redemption and resistance, painting a picture of a society oppressed by violence and corruption.
The non-lethal combat system, where Tomoe disarms her enemies instead of killing them, stands out. It’s innovative, and requires precise timing and strategy, making it both rewarding and challenging. The game’s depth is further enhanced by the customization options available through special ki techniques, crests, and herb infusions, allowing players to tailor their combat style to their preferences. However, the combat can sometimes feel repetitive, especially once you progress through to the game’s later stages.
Visually, Bloodless captures the essence of its retro-inspired aesthetic with striking environments that reflect the turmoil of Bakugawa. The blend of sacred natural settings and war-torn districts adds a layer of immersion that draws players into its world, and the developers have poured a lot of visual details into this one to craft a unique style. The audio design complements the visuals with a moody, atmospheric soundtrack that underscores the game’s emotional narrative. However, the pacing of the story can be a bit uneven, with moments of slow progression that can detract from the overall experience.
Overall, Bloodless stands out for its unique approach to combat and its richly detailed world, offering an experience that is both challenging and thought-provoking. While it may not appeal to those looking for a faster-paced action adventure, it provides a compelling journey for players interested in a more contemplative, sometimes even strategy-driven adventure on PC – a pleasant surprise from 3D Realms.
Iron Meat review (PS5)
Iron Meat, developed by Ivan Valeryevich Suvorov and published by Retroware, is a fast-paced, run-and-gun shooter that feels like a love letter to the classic arcade and console games of the 90s – fans of Contra and Midnight Resistance are in for a treat here. Set in a world overtaken by “The Meat,” an all-consuming interdimensional biomass, players take on the role of Vadim, a soldier tasked with stopping the grotesque horrors unleashed by scientist Yuri Markov’s experiments on the Moon. The narrative is straightforward but effective, serving as a good backdrop for the intense action that follows.
The gameplay in Iron Meat is where the game truly shines. The controls are tight and responsive, making it easy to dodge bullets while simultaneously mowing down waves of mutated enemies. The multi-phase boss fights are a highlight, each more challenging and rewarding as you progress, particularly on higher difficulty settings. But while the game’s difficulty is a welcome throwback to the tough-as-nails (arcade) titles of yesteryear, it might be a bit daunting for relative newcomers to the genre. However, the inclusion of three difficulty levels ensures that both seasoned players and those less familiar with run-and-gun shooters can enjoy the experience – and for most there will be the option to try again and test yourself at a higher level.
Visually, Iron Meat nails the retro aesthetic, with pixel art that is both detailed and gruesome, perfectly capturing the alien nature of its enemies and environments. The nine levels are varied and visually striking, filled with grotesque detail that brings the horrors of “The Meat” to life. The soundtrack complements the intense action with a pulse-pounding score that keeps the adrenaline flowing, and the game also features a local co-op mode, which adds another layer of fun as you can team up with a friend to take on the invasion together. We had a great time in both single and multiplayer mode.
However, despite the game’s many strengths, Iron Meat’s difficulty, even on the lower settings, can sometimes feel overwhelming. Additionally, the game’s reliance on nostalgic elements might not appeal to those seeking something more innovative. But for fans of the genre, Iron Meat is a brutal and satisfying homage to classic run-and-gun shooters, offering a challenging and bloody good time.
Operation: Polygon Storm review (PS5)
Operation: Polygon Storm aims to provide a streamlined yet engaging strategy experience on current platforms including the PlayStation 5, focusing on large-scale battles without the burden of micromanagement. Developed by Toxic Studio and published by Untold Tales, the game lets players assume the role of a master general, responsible for assembling and deploying a diverse army of units ranging from infantry and armor to artillery and air support. The game’s core appeal lies in its emphasis on strategy and adaptability, allowing players to plan their approach, deploy their forces, and then watch as their strategy unfolds on the battlefield.
The gameplay is accessible but also features a surprising degree of depth, offering a variety of units and upgrade paths that encourage experimentation and tactical thinking. The absence of micromanagement is a double-edged sword; on one hand, it allows players to focus on the big picture, making quick decisions to adapt to the ever-changing battle conditions. On the other hand, some might find the lack of control over individual units limiting, especially in situations where you feel as if more direct intervention could turn the tide of battle.
Visually, Operation: Polygon Storm employs a minimalist, polygonal art style that might not be to everyone’s taste but serves its purpose well by keeping the focus on the strategic elements of the game. The destructible environments add a dynamic layer to the gameplay, with battles leaving behind a trail of debris and destruction that enhances the sense of chaos and immersion. The audio design is functional, with sound effects that punctuate the action, though it certainly doesn’t stand out as a highlight of the experience either.
Overall, Operation: Polygon Storm is a solid entry in the strategy genre, particularly for those who enjoy tactical planning without getting bogged down in the minutiae of unit management. While it may not offer the depth of control some hardcore strategy fans crave, its blend of strategy, destructible environments, and straightforward gameplay makes it an enjoyable experience for those looking for a more relaxed but still challenging battlefield experience on the PlayStation 5 that’s available at a budget price.
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