[PlayStation 5] Review: Nine Sols

If you’re a fan of challenging 2D adventures, Nine Sols from Red Candle Games is one you won’t want to miss. This hand-drawn masterpiece, now available on PlayStation 5, intertwines the intricate combat mechanics inspired by Sekiro with the exploration-driven nature of a Metroidvania. Set in the mesmerizing Taopunk realm of New Kunlun, it cleverly blends Eastern mythology with a futuristic cyberpunk vibe. You step into the shoes of Yi, an enigmatic Fangshi, whose quest begins deep within a cave alongside Shuanshuan, your companion seeking a rare flower for an important ritual. Despite the seemingly archaic surroundings, there’s much more lurking below the surface. Your mission is simple yet daunting: bring down the nine formidable Sols that dominate the land.

Originally, the studio launched a crowdfunding initiative in 2022, aiming to raise NT$3,000,000 for the game’s development. Surpassing all expectations with the backing of 8,900 supporters, the campaign concluded with over NT$13,000,000 in funds. After its premiere on Steam in May, Nine Sols makes a triumphant leap to PlayStation 5. This success facilitated the achievement of additional stretch goals, leading to the introduction of a more accessible difficulty mode, a new in-game cutscene, and even an alternate storyline ending.

Image from Nine Sols showcases its detailed, vibrant setting.

You can tackle Nine Sols in one of two ways: the traditional Standard Mode or the more relaxed Story Mode, which was one of the stretch goals. The former offers the intended experience, demanding precision and skill in combat as you navigate various environments. On the other hand, Story Mode allows you to engross yourself in the narrative with adjustable damage multipliers, making it less about surviving fights and more about the journey itself.

In an unsettling ceremony, the chosen are supposed to ascend to heaven with the Sols, but things quickly take a turn for the worse. A sinister device gruesomely decapitates them, discarding the bodies in a concealed facility. Shuanshuan, your friend of several years, becomes one of these unfortunate participants. Determined to save him, you intervene, activating your talisman to halt the mechanism before it seals his fate.

Image from Nine Sols Visualizes the Suspenseful Atmosphere.

Using the power of your Qi, you manage to shatter the contraption’s helmet, causing panic among the villagers as fear of divine retribution looms large. This marks the beginning of your quest to thwart the entities behind these abductions. Moving through the game, you’ll guide Yi with the left analog stick, advancing through each stage with the X button for jumps, R2 for dashes, and Square for wielding your sword. Eventually, you’ll use the Triangle button to shoot arrows, while interactions and special actions rely on the Circle button. Your abilities will grow, letting you scale walls or seize materials for unexpected roots.

One key aspect of Nine Sols’ combat is mastering your parry technique with the L1 button. Perfect timing allows you to deflect blows and build up Qi, which is useful against bosses. Healing with an herbal Pipe on the D-pad and using the L2 button to dispatch your Mystic Nymph—a tool for hacking tricky spots—enhances your strategies.

If the unthinkable happens and you fall in battle, you’ll lose all money and experience. To reclaim your funds, you must defeat the enemy that killed you. Upon saving progress and resting, be prepared for the challenge to begin anew as foes respawn. Use downtime to improve your skills at save points, preparing for what’s next and gaining an edge over the opposition.

Image from Nine Sols Displays Combat-Intensive Section.

Throughout your journey, enemies and bosses defeated yield valuable experience points, which contribute to earning Skill Points. These can unlock upgrades in the Skill Tree to augment Yi’s abilities, enhancing your gameplay. Options like Swift Runner and Qi Boost expand your movement and skill options, while Bullet Deflect can turn enemy missiles back on them.

Money gathered helps you craft items via a 3D printer, with opportunities to buy Jade that evolves skills, such as Ricochet Jade enhancing your Bullet Deflect technique. Importantly, invest in the Pipe Vial first – it increases your health restore uses, making a significant difference in tight situations.

Achievement hunters have plenty to look forward to, with a comprehensive trophy list culminating in a Platinum trophy. Featuring 15 Bronze, 17 Silver, and 3 Gold trophies, players needed to master the entire skill tree, retrieve all jade pieces, overcome every boss—including hidden ones—and complete the game on Standard Mode to achieve the top rank. There’s a treasure trove of secret trophies woven into the gameplay that adds layers of mystery. For those seeking extra guidance, check out a dedicated Nine Sols Trophy Guide for hints.

Image from Nine Sols Illustrates a Strategic Moment.

Nine Sols beckons with its beautiful 2D hand-drawn graphics and intense combat mechanics. This PlayStation 5 adventure set in a unique Taopunk world, where you’ll embark on a quest to dethrone the 9 Sols. Does Yi’s journey pique your interest? You can start your exploration today for $29.99.

Image reviewing Nine Sols encapsulates the blend of Eastern mythology and cyberpunk.

This review of Nine Sols is based on a PlayStation 5 copy provided by Red Candle Games.