Slave Zero X is a stylish 2.5D character action game set in the biopunk world of Slave Zero (1999). Run & Slash your way through a dystopian future in this character action game which will resonate with fans of Devil May Cry, Strider, and Guilty Gear.
Players can string together devastating attack sequences, seamlessly transitioning between a variety of strikes, aerial combos, and cinematic special moves. The responsive controls and expansive moveset allow skilled players to put on an impressive display of stylish combat, meeting the high skill ceiling of the spectacle fighter genre.
Effectively managing the EX meter, which fuels powerful special attacks, is crucial. Players must balance aggressive offense to build the meter with defensive "Burst" maneuvers that break out of enemy combos and refill the EX gauge. When the meter is full, players can enter a "Fatal Sync" state, granting unlimited EX moves and gradual health recovery - encouraging them to maximize time in this empowered mode through masterful meter control.
The lack of a traditional block button forces players to rely on precise parry timing and iframes to avoid damage from the game's aggressive enemy encounters. While this can lead to frustrating moments, especially against large groups, overcoming these challenges and stringing together long, stylish combos provides an immensely satisfying payoff for skilled players.
The game presents players with a variety of enemy types, each requiring different tactics. Effectively dealing with these threats demands that players adapt their approach, using the right mix of crowd control, target prioritization, and combo execution. Some reviewers have noted a desire for even more enemy complexity, but the existing roster still provides a solid test of the player's skills.
While the core moveset remains largely static, players can unlock additional "Secret Arts" that add new combo possibilities and strategies. This, combined with the game's high-score focus and online leaderboards, provides incentive for players to continually hone their skills and push for better performance. The inclusion of a challenging "Crimson Citadel" procedural mode also extends the game's longevity for those seeking further mastery of the combat system.