Absolum: Stunning Roguelite from Streets of Rage 4 Creators

Guard Crush Games, the studio behind Streets of Rage 4, is teaming up once again with publisher Dotemu for a new beat-'em-up. This time, it's Dotemu's first original IP: Absolum. Featuring stunning hand-drawn animation by Supamonks and a killer soundtrack by Gareth Coker, Absolum boasts impressive talent. My hands-on experience confirmed its potential.

Absolum is a roguelite side-scrolling beat-'em-up action-RPG designed for deep replayability. It delivers on that promise with branching paths, quests, diverse characters, and challenging bosses. The game is a visually captivating fantasy adventure. I played as Karl, a tanky dwarf-like character, and Galandra, a nimble ranger-type wielding a sword. Gameplay involves slaying creatures, smashing environments (hoping for health-replenishing pickups!), exploring buildings for treasure, battling bosses with massive health pools, dying, and repeating the cycle. Two-player same-screen co-op is also planned.

As a fan of classic arcade beat-'em-ups and games like *Golden Axe*, *Absolum* felt instantly familiar. The Saturday morning cartoon-style art and animation contribute to this nostalgic charm. The relatively simple, yet layered, two-button combat system allows for strategic attacks based on the enemy. The roguelite elements modernize the gameplay, adding depth and significant replayability.

What is your favorite modern beat-'em-up? -----------------------------------------

Streets of Rage 4TMNT: Shredder's RevengeRiver City Girls (1 or 2)Dragon's Crown ProRiver City Ransom UndergroundMother Russia BleedsOther (feel free to leave a Comment below)

AnswerSee ResultsPlayers discover both hidden and obvious power-ups. Some are active weapons or spells activated via triggers and face buttons; others are passive inventory items. These randomize each run, introducing a risk-reward element. For example, I acquired two damage-boosting orbs at the cost of 20% health each, resulting in a risky but powerful build. Items can be dropped at any time.

Absolum - First Screenshots

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As a roguelite, death leads to a shop where in-game currency can be spent on items for subsequent runs. This feature wasn't fully implemented in the early build I played.

Despite this, Absolum shows immense potential. The first major boss (unseen in footage) proved challenging. A later boss fight was visually impressive. Two-player co-op would significantly enhance the boss battles.

Absolum's art style, animation, classic beat-'em-up gameplay, roguelite loop, and developer pedigree combine to create a promising title. It's likely to satisfy the craving for couch co-op experiences. I eagerly anticipate playing a more polished version. My initial impression is highly optimistic.