From the creative teams at PLAYISM, Team Ladybug, and WSS Playground comes an incredible Metroidvania experience you absolutely must check out on the Nintendo Switch. In this Blade Chimera review, we dive into what makes it a standout game in the genre!
When you dive into Blade Chimera, you’ll step into the shoes of Shin, a demon hunter suffering from amnesia. Partnering up with Lux, a demon who can take the form of a sword, might seem strange for a demon hunter, but Lux brings undeniable benefits to your quests. Not only can Lux attack foes and shield you from damage, but she also transforms into platforms to access unreachable areas—crucial for exploring the gritty, cyberpunk cityscape of Osaka.
Once you start the game, you’ll find yourself navigating Shin using either the left analog stick or the D-Pad. Jump into action with the A button, and unleash attacks with B. Your secondary attack, which varies based on your equipped gear, is triggered with Y, while L allows you to dodge enemy strikes. Need to activate an equipped skill? Just press the R button, but keep an eye on your MP as it depletes.
Lux is mapped to the X button, providing a suite of tactical advantages. Whether it’s fighting enemies or forming barriers, Lux adapts, even allowing you to use her as a temporary platform. Got a time distortion nearby? Lux can morph into massive objects for added protection. And don’t forget, Lux can latch onto grappling spots for some dynamic platforming! Plus, defeating enemies with Lux boosts your HP—a handy perk during tough encounters.
Every victory against demons and formidable bosses rewards you with experience points, leading to level-ups. As you progress, your character’s power grows, enhancing both offensive and defensive capabilities. Exploring each room is vital too, as you may find special items that permanently increase your HP and MP stats.
Collecting currency plays a pivotal role as well, with each enemy defeated adding to your coffers. Spend this hard-earned cash on valuable recovery items like Life Elixirs or Energy Drinks, or cure status conditions with Miracle Mixes. Why not upgrade your arsenal with new weapons or gear to boost your stats? Feeling entrepreneurial? Sell spare items for additional funds. And if you’re ever strapped for cash, side missions from HQ might just do the trick.
Leveling up doesn’t merely boost stats; it grants valuable Skill Points. These come into play when you access the menu with +, under the Unlock Skills section. Here’s where Blade Chimera flexes its Metroidvania muscles—you’ll need specific skills to navigate the game’s intricate world. Master moves like the Air Dash for dodging and gap-crossing, or combine it with a double jump to reach those distant platforms.
All in all, Blade Chimera on the Nintendo Switch offers a top-tier experience. Playing as Shin, you unravel your forgotten past while allied with the unique Lux. Lux’s versatility in combat and exploration makes her indispensable as you traverse the sprawling cyberpunk vision of Osaka.
Combat is both a challenge and a reward. Eliminating every enemy in sight is more than just clearing the way; it’s a chance to earn precious experience, money, and sometimes rare items. These might range from simple healing candies to advanced weaponry that surpasses anything the merchant offers. On one lucky occasion, I snagged a powerful Chakram, far more potent than any guns in my arsenal!
Priced at $19.99, Blade Chimera on the Switch is a must-have for fans of the genre, blending action and exploration in a uniquely cyberpunk setting.
Disclaimer: This Blade Chimera review is based on a Nintendo Switch copy provided by PLAYISM.
