Vacant Kingdom is a synthesis of bullet hell and story-driven action-RPG. Explore a whimsical yet desolate land and rally its adrift people by solving their problems.
The gameplay seamlessly blends bullet hell with an action-RPG structure. Players take on the role of a protagonist who must navigate through a whimsical yet desolate land, facing off against a variety of distinctive bosses in intense shoot 'em up combat. The bullet hell segments challenge players with intricate bullet patterns and enemy attack waves. Each boss fight requires learning and mastering the unique attack patterns and gimmicks, such as a chef who only knows one recipe or a nefarious wizard wielding the power of obtuse riddles. The game offers three difficulty settings, ranging from accommodating newcomers to providing a formidable challenge for veteran bullet hell players.
A key mechanic is the ability to slow down time during combat using a 'watch' item. This allows players to more easily navigate the bullet hell sequences, providing a useful tool to manage the difficulty. Additionally, the game features a variety of equippable weapons and items that offer different approaches to combat and boss strategies.
In between the intense shoot 'em up sequences, the gameplay incorporates puzzle-solving elements. Players must navigate through different locations, solve environmental puzzles, and uncover secrets to progress through the world. These puzzle sections provide a welcome respite from the bullet hell action while still challenging players' problem-solving skills.
To cater to players of various skill levels, the game offers a range of accessibility options. The 'assist mode' allows adjusting parameters such as increasing health or energy, making the experience more accessible for newcomers. Conversely, the 'anti-assist mode' offers an even greater challenge for players seeking a more hardcore experience.