Destroy... Absorb... Grow... GRIME is a fast and unforgiving Action-Adventure RPG in which you crush your foes with living weapons that mutate form and function, and then consume their remains with a black hole to strengthen your vessel as you break apart a world of anatomical horror and intrigue.
The combat system revolves around precisely timing your parries to interrupt enemy attacks. Successful parries fill up a meter that can then be used to heal, creating a satisfying loop of attack, parry, and counterattack. The generous parry window allows you to master the timing, rather than relying on frame-perfect inputs. This results in a dance-like combat flow where you deftly avoid and punish enemy strikes.
You wield a diverse array of living weapons, each with unique movesets and special abilities. As you defeat enemies, you can absorb their remains to "mutate" your weapons, altering their form and function in the midst of combat. This deep customization encourages experimentation with different playstyles and combat approaches.
Defeating enemies not only grants new weapon mutations, but also allows you to absorb their unique abilities. These "traits" are then unlocked at checkpoints, giving you permanent upgrades to your character's skills. Gradually accumulating new abilities as you progress is a core part of the RPG-like progression system.
The boss battles are formidable challenges that demand you learn and react to intricate attack patterns. Though tough, they are described as fair, rewarding you with significant new abilities or access to new areas upon triumph. Overcoming these imposing foes provides both mechanical and narrative satisfaction.
Alongside the combat, the game features extensive platforming and exploration. You must navigate treacherous environments, make precise jumps, and uncover hidden paths and secrets. New movement abilities are introduced over time, opening up previously inaccessible areas and encouraging you to revisit locations.