Nine Sols, the eagerly awaited souls-like 2D platformer developed by Red Candle Games, is set to launch on Switch, PS, and Xbox consoles soon. As the console release approaches, producer Shihwei Yang has provided insights into what makes Nine Sols stand out in the crowded field of souls-like games.
Nine Sols' Unique Art and Combat Are Its Shining Megastars
Takes Inspiration From Eastern Philosophy and Gritty Cyberpunk
In anticipation of Nine Sols' console debut next month, co-founder and producer Shihwei Yang discussed how Red Candle Games' latest title distinguishes itself from other games released this year. Central to Nine Sols' identity is its "Taopunk" concept, a unique fusion of Eastern philosophy, particularly Taoism, with the gritty aesthetics of cyberpunk.
The game's visual style draws heavily from iconic 80s and 90s manga and anime like Akira and Ghost in the Shell, which are renowned for their futuristic settings, bustling urban landscapes, neon aesthetics, and the interplay between humans and technology. "As fans of '80s and '90s Japanese anime and manga, we looked to cyberpunk classics like 'Akira' and 'Ghost in the Shell' for our art direction," Yang explained. "These influences helped us create a visual style that feels both nostalgic and cutting-edge, blending futuristic technology with an artistic touch."
The "Taopunk" aesthetic extends to the game's audio design, with Yang noting that the soundscape combines traditional Eastern music elements with modern instruments. "We aimed to craft a distinctive sound that sets Nine Sols apart," he said. "By merging traditional Eastern sounds with modern instruments, we've created an atmosphere that feels both rooted in ancient traditions and forward-looking."
Beyond its striking audio-visual presentation, Nine Sols' combat system is where the game's unique blend of elements truly shines. "We wanted to create an experience that resonated with Taoist philosophy while embracing the raw energy of cyberpunk," Yang remarked. "However, designing the combat system was one of our biggest challenges."
Initially inspired by indie classics like Hollow Knight, the team soon realized this approach didn't align with Nine Sols' tone. "We knew we couldn't follow the path of other great platformers," Yang explained. "We needed something that fit our vision of a deflection-heavy 2D action game." The turning point came when they discovered the deflection system in Sekiro, which resonated deeply with their goals.
Rather than focusing on aggressive counterattacks, Nine Sols' combat system emphasizes the quiet intensity and focus inherent in Taoist philosophy, allowing players to "use an opponent's strength against them." Yang highlighted the challenges of implementing a "deflection-heavy" combat system in a 2D environment. "It's a mechanic rarely explored in 2D games, and it required countless iterations to perfect," he said. "But after much trial and error, it all came together."
As the various elements of Nine Sols coalesced, the narrative also evolved, naturally incorporating themes such as the balance between nature and technology and the deeper meanings of life and death. "It felt like Nine Sols was finding its own path, and we were just guiding it along," Yang reflected.
Nine Sols' compelling gameplay mechanics, combined with its visually stunning art and thought-provoking story, have left Game8 thoroughly impressed. For more insights, check out our full review linked below!
