ONE BTN BOSSES
In the whirlwind of game discussions on our podcast, it’s easy for some gems to slip through the cracks, and this is exactly what the Good Ass Games I Never Mentioned Award is all about. Enter ONE BTN BOSSES, a game with a simple yet addictive premise.
The concept is brilliantly straightforward: you pilot a ship that orbits the boss automatically. By pressing the button, you change the ship’s direction. The less you alter your path, the faster your ship goes, which translates to faster shooting. The faster you shoot, the quicker you secure victory. But be wary, the angrier the boss gets, the higher the stakes become. This bullet hell experience is as thrilling as it is engaging, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it.
While there’s a true ending that involves grinding, I found my satisfaction in completing the levels as they came. The game features a punchy gameplay loop with numerous upgrades to unlock, tailoring the experience to your preferred playstyle. Certain bosses may require specific combinations of upgrades, adding an enjoyable layer of strategy. Although there’s a story woven in for progression, don’t expect anything deep—it’s merely a vehicle to keep you moving forward.
It’s a fast-paced, engaging experience perfect for fans of arcade-style games. If you’re looking for a fun challenge with a unique twist, make sure to give this one a try.
ONE BTN BOSSES on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1910600/ONE_BTN_BOSSES/
NINE SOLS
It’s mind-boggling to think that the developer behind the haunting horror gem Devotion has created a stylish, brutally addictive metroidvania game with Nine Sols. If you’re looking for one of the best games of 2024, look no further.
In Nine Sols, you’ll embark on a vengeful quest to take down the formidable rulers known as the 9 Sols. The Sekiro-inspired combat focuses on deflection and precision, resulting in visceral, dance-like encounters with enemies. The challenge is real, but once you get the rhythm of combat, you’ll feel like a true master, dodging and parrying your way to victory. The game brilliantly combines difficulty with fluidity, offering a rewarding experience that keeps you engaged.
What truly sets Nine Sols apart is its compelling narrative that rivals the emotional weight of titles like God of War and Sekiro. The parry system and skill tree add layers of depth, allowing you to customize your approach to combat. Whether you prefer a parry/counter style, aggressive play with health recovery, or even explosive evasion tactics, you’ll find a style that suits you perfectly. The level design is equally impressive, ramping up in intensity while encouraging backtracking for collectibles that enrich the story through memorable interactions.
Visually, Nine Sols is a breathtaking achievement. The stunning traditional animation breathes life into each frame, creating beautifully detailed backgrounds that enhance exploration without sacrificing clarity. The haunting score complements the experience perfectly, immersing players in this atmospheric world. Just a heads up: some graphic imagery and tension-filled moments draw on the developer’s horror roots, adding another layer of depth to this already engaging title.
In short, Nine Sols is an indie marvel that combines art, action, and storytelling in an unforgettable package. If you’re a fan of metroidvanias or action-platformers, this game is an absolute must-play.
Nine Sols on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1809540/Nine_Sols/