Nine Sols: A Taopunk Souls-like Platformer That Defies Expectations
Nine Sols, a 2D souls-like platformer developed by Red Candle Games, is poised for release on Switch, PS, and Xbox consoles. Producer Shihwei Yang recently shed light on what distinguishes this title from the crowded souls-like genre.
A Unique Blend of Eastern Philosophy and Cyberpunk Aesthetics
Yang highlights "Taopunk" as the core of Nine Sols' identity—a fusion of Eastern philosophies, particularly Taoism, with the gritty cyberpunk aesthetic. The game's visuals draw heavily from 80s and 90s anime and manga like Akira and Ghost in the Shell, capturing the futuristic cityscapes, neon lights, and human-technology blend. This influence extends to the audio design, which masterfully blends traditional Eastern instrumentation with modern sounds, creating a unique and atmospheric soundscape.
Combat: A Deflection-Focused System Rooted in Taoism
The development of Nine Sols' combat system presented a significant challenge. While initial inspiration came from titles like Hollow Knight, the team ultimately shifted towards a deflection-heavy system reminiscent of Sekiro. However, instead of aggressive counter-attacks, Nine Sols emphasizes the quiet intensity and balance inherent in Taoist philosophy, rewarding players for deflecting attacks and maintaining composure. This unique approach, rarely seen in 2D platformers, required extensive iteration to perfect.
The development process organically shaped the narrative, weaving in themes of nature versus technology, and the meaning of life and death. The game's unique identity, a compelling blend of gameplay, visuals, and narrative, sets it apart in the crowded souls-like market.
