Blade Chimera, crafted by PLAYISM, Team Ladybug, and WSS Playground, is a Metroidvania gem you definitely need to try out on the Nintendo Switch. In this intriguing title, you step into the shoes of Shin, a demon hunter who, rather conveniently, has no recollection of his past. Teaming up with Lux, a demon who morphs into a sword, you’ll find this partnership quite unusual for a demon hunter like Shin. Lux isn’t just any partner though; she’s incredibly versatile. Not only does she assault your enemies and shield you from harm, but she can also turn into a platform to help you reach those tricky, otherwise inaccessible spots. Her skills will be essential as you navigate the sprawling cyberpunk backdrop of Osaka.
As you dive into the action, controlling Shin is smooth whether you’re using the left analog stick or the D-Pad to maneuver through the game. You’ll get Shin high in the air with the A button and unleash attacks with the B button. If you want to use a secondary attack, the Y button does the trick, adapting based on your current gear. Dodging incoming strikes requires a quick tap of the L button, while the R button lets you unleash an equipped skill, but keep an eye on your MP as it takes a hit.
Lux, mapped to the X button, is more than just a regular sword. She can slash foes, form a protective barrier, turn into a shield by transforming objects from the past, or allow you to use her as a stepping stone by clinging to walls. You’ll find her grappling feature indispensable as you string together jumps. Plus, dispatching enemies with Lux’s help regenerates some of your much-needed HP—a crucial perk for those intense battles.
Throughout your journey, as you eliminate demons and daunting bosses, you accumulate experience points. Gathering enough of these allows you to level up, enhancing your attack and defense stats, making you a formidable force against enemies. Scour every nook and cranny to discover special items that boost your maximum HP and MP, fortifying you for the challenges ahead.
Defeating enemies doesn’t just bring experience; it also lines your pockets with cash, which you can spend on items such as Life Elixirs to regain HP, Energy Drinks for MP, or even a Turbo Regenerator for a more significant 50 HP recovery. While out in the field, you might also stumble upon some tasty Candy for a quick heal or stumble upon potent weapons. Don’t forget to visit stores for new arsenals to keep your combat edge sharp.
As you climb through the levels, you’ll also earn valuable Skill Points. By navigating the game menu with the + button, you can venture into the Unlock Skills section. Here lies the essence of the Metroidvania experience, where unlocking specific skills like the Air Dash to leap across open spaces or the handy double jump to reach lofty platforms becomes essential to exploring new areas.
The world of Blade Chimera truly shines with its deep gameplay and captivating mechanics, inviting you to immerse yourself fully. Keep battling, because aside from leveling up, you might find surprise loot from enemies, like a powerful Chakram—turning combat from routine to exhilarating.
Blade Chimera has made its way to the Nintendo Switch, priced at a reasonable $19.99. For fans of the genre and newcomers alike, it offers a comprehensive adventure wrapped within the splendid visuals and mechanics of a cyberpunk landscape.
This review reflects my gameplay experience on a Nintendo Switch copy provided by PLAYISM.
