Fueled by love but driven by rage, Cherry embarks on a blood-soaked quest for revenge, explores the massive Megastructure, and eviscerates the armies of Infornet in a best-in-class action-adventure that breaks tropes and bones.
Players praise the game's level design, which offers a variety of environments to navigate. From large open areas to more platforming-focused sections with hazards like spikes, the hand-drawn 2D visuals create a sense of depth and momentum in the player's movements. Once players unlock abilities like double jumping and air dashing, the traversal becomes especially creative and satisfying.
The combat animations are a highlight, with smooth, visceral attacks and brutal executions. Players can choose from a variety of weapons, from heavy punches to more technical combos. The parry system, in particular, is singled out as extremely rewarding when mastered, though some find the timing inconsistent. Enemies have distinct attack patterns that require adaptation, culminating in challenging but satisfying boss fights.
As a Metroidvania, the game emphasizes uncovering secrets and acquiring new abilities to access previously inaccessible areas of the large, interconnected map. The steady stream of new powers and weapons helps keep the gameplay feeling fresh as the player progresses through the story.
The array of weapons, combat abilities, and mobility options allows players to experiment with different approaches. Combined with the responsive controls, this empowers players to develop their own customized playstyle as they master the game's mechanics.