Souldiers is a 2D Metroidvania action adventure game released in 2022 for PC. Players control a soldier transported to the afterlife realm of Terragaya and must battle through its interconnected areas while solving environmental challenges and upgrading abilities.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on side-scrolling exploration across a handcrafted world filled with hidden paths and ability-gated sections. Movement relies on precise platforming that incorporates jumps, wall climbs, and later-acquired skills tied to the chosen class. Combat emphasizes timing with parries, dodges, and melee strikes against varied enemies that require pattern recognition rather than button mashing.
Three distinct classes shape the experience from the start. The Scout uses balanced sword-and-shield tactics with strong close-range options and no mana reliance. The Archer focuses on ranged attacks with ammunition management that improves through upgrades. The Caster employs magical projectiles and area effects but trades durability for power. Each class features unique equipment, stat distributions, and skill trees that alter combat flow and puzzle solutions without allowing mid-playthrough switches.
Progression involves collecting resources to enhance weapons, armor, and abilities. Backtracking becomes essential once new traversal tools open previously inaccessible zones. Puzzles often combine platforming precision with combat interruptions or environmental interactions that reward observation over trial and error.
Game Modes
The game operates entirely in single-player format with no multiplayer components. The main campaign forms the sole structured experience, though class selection creates three separate playthrough paths with different combat rhythms and upgrade priorities. Difficulty options adjust enemy damage output and other parameters, with higher settings like Master available from the outset and additional challenges unlocked after completion.
Replay value stems from attempting the other classes after an initial run rather than from separate modes or procedural elements. The structure remains linear in its story progression while allowing nonlinear exploration within the map layout.
Setting and Progression
Terragaya serves as a liminal space blending living and fallen elements, populated by creatures that test both reflexes and planning. Story beats unfold through environmental storytelling and brief encounters rather than lengthy cutscenes. Character upgrades tie directly into class identity, encouraging players to master one playstyle before considering alternatives on subsequent attempts.
Is It Worth Playing?
Souldiers appeals to players who enjoy deliberate, challenging Metroidvania titles that blend platforming precision with soulslike combat timing. The three classes provide meaningful variety for those willing to invest in multiple runs, while the pixel-art presentation and soundtrack support extended sessions of exploration. Reception highlights the satisfying sense of mastery once patterns click, though some find the difficulty spikes and occasional control responsiveness issues disruptive. Those seeking a complete single-player adventure with strong emphasis on skill development over accessibility features will find the most alignment here. The game remains available as a finished title without ongoing seasonal content.
