Nine Sols: Unique "Taopunk" Angle

Nine Sols: A Taopunk Souls-like Platformer That Defies Expectations

Red Candle Games' upcoming 2D souls-like platformer, Nine Sols, is poised to launch on Switch, PlayStation, 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 ("Taopunk")

Yang highlights Nine Sols' "Taopunk" identity – a fusion of Eastern philosophies, particularly Taoism, and cyberpunk aesthetics. The game's visual style draws inspiration from 80s and 90s anime classics like Akira and Ghost in the Shell, blending futuristic technology with a nostalgic yet modern artistic flair. This aesthetic extends to the audio design, which incorporates traditional Eastern musical elements with modern instrumentation, creating a unique soundscape.

Innovative Deflection-Based Combat

While initially inspired by titles like Hollow Knight, the developers realized a different approach was needed to match Nine Sols' unique tone. They ultimately adopted a deflection-heavy combat system, inspired by Sekiro, but infused with the calm intensity of Taoist philosophy. This system rewards players for deflecting attacks and maintaining balance, a rare mechanic in 2D platformers that required extensive development.

The development process organically shaped the narrative, weaving in themes of nature versus technology, and the meaning of life and death. The resulting game feels like a unique creation, distinct from other souls-like platformers. Nine Sols' compelling gameplay, captivating art, and intriguing story make it a truly remarkable title.