Shouhon is a 2D roguelike metroidvania action game developed for PC. Players control a ghost that possesses an abandoned jiangshi puppet trapped in an underground tomb and must fight through procedurally generated stages using talismans and relics to escape.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on exploration and combat within randomly generated stages. Each run features a different layout, with regular enemies that have unique attack patterns and a boss encounter at key points. Combat relies on four distinct attacks: a ground attack, an aerial forward attack, an aerial downward attack, and a special attack. Equipped talismans alter available moves and their chaining options, allowing players to adapt their approach based on unlocked abilities.
Talismans form a permanent progression system. Dying grants ink, which is spent at the Talisman Workshop to unlock new abilities. These unlocks remain available across all future runs and modify core controls rather than simply increasing stats. For instance, replacing a dodge with a parry shifts the focus from evasion to defense and counters. Players select and purchase specific abilities without any random elements involved in the process.
Relics provide temporary power boosts during a single run. Defeating enemies yields spirits, a run-specific currency used at randomly placed relic chests and shops. Greater map exploration leads to more relics and stronger performance before the run ends. This setup encourages thorough navigation of each stage while tying power gains directly to discovery.
Game Modes
Shouhon operates entirely as a single-player experience built around repeated roguelike runs. There are no separate multiplayer or co-op options. The primary mode involves descending into the tomb repeatedly, with each attempt featuring fresh stage layouts and enemy placements. Progression carries over through permanent talisman unlocks, while relics reset with every death.
Story elements advance gradually across multiple runs. Player choices during these attempts influence the narrative path and unlock different endings. This structure blends roguelike repetition with metroidvania-style ability gating and exploration, where new talismans expand movement and combat options over time.
Progression and Systems
Permanent upgrades focus exclusively on talismans, creating a deliberate build path that players control completely. The absence of randomness in talisman acquisition means each session builds toward preferred playstyles, whether aggressive, defensive, or balanced. Relics add run-to-run variety by offering powerful but temporary effects that reward deeper exploration.
Stages emphasize procedural generation for replayability, ensuring no two attempts follow the exact same path. Enemies present distinct patterns that require adaptation, and bosses serve as major checkpoints. The combination of fixed combat inputs modified by talismans keeps movement and attacks responsive while allowing meaningful customization.
Is It Worth Playing?
Shouhon targets players who enjoy roguelike metroidvania action games with strong emphasis on ability customization and procedural stages. The permanent talisman system offers clear long-term goals without relying on chance, while relics and random layouts provide short-term variety. Story progression across runs adds incentive for repeated attempts, leading to multiple endings based on choices.
The game remains in development with a planned release in 2027 and currently has no user reviews available. Those interested in single-player experiences centered on talisman-driven combat changes and relic-powered runs may find the described mechanics appealing once it launches. Availability will be through standard PC digital storefronts upon release.
