Perennial Order is a 2D plant horror boss rush with challenging one-hit-death combat. Set in an atmospheric Dark Age world plagued by nature-infested horrors, explore a lore-filled and eldritch land alone or in two player co-op, all in a realistic painterly style.
The game challenges players with a one-hit-death combat system that requires exceptional skill and strategic thinking. Every combat choice matters, as a single hit from an enemy results in instant death. However, the game respawns players directly at the beginning of each encounter, allowing them to quickly learn from their mistakes and jump back into the fight. This creates an intense and rewarding experience where players must master the game's combat mechanics to overcome the daunting challenges.
The combat utilizes fluid twin stick melee controls, giving players precise command over their character's movements and attacks. This control scheme enables a high level of responsiveness and skill expression during the intense boss battles. Players must carefully time their dodges, blocks, and strikes to overcome the relentless onslaught of the game's eldritch bosses.
The game features a variety of unique bosses, each with distinct mechanics and attack patterns that players must learn and adapt to. Overcoming these challenging boss encounters is a core part of the gameplay experience, as players are tasked with discovering the best strategies and approaches to defeat each formidable foe. The boss-rush focus provides a constant sense of tension and accomplishment as players progress through the mysterious world.
The game allows players to customize their playstyle through the use of various abilities and upgrades, known as "Instincts." These customization options give players the ability to tailor their approach to suit their preferred combat style, whether that be focusing on evasion, powerful strikes, or a combination of strategies. This depth of customization adds an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay, encouraging experimentation and replayability.
The game features both local and online co-op modes, allowing players to embark on the challenging journey together. The co-op experience is seamless, with players able to join and leave the game at any time without disrupting the flow of the adventure. The co-op mode also introduces unique mechanics, such as the "Vestige" system, which allows a fallen player to provide a helpful ability to their partner, further fostering a sense of teamwork and cooperation.