Set in a far corner of space, Valfaris is a heavy metal infused 2D action-platformer and the next game from the team behind Unity Awards finalist, Slain: Back From Hell. Brutal combat. Deadly enemies. Stunning pixel art. Savage soundtrack. Get ready to rip the galaxy a new wormhole.
Players wield a wide range of melee and ranged weapons, including swords, axes, pistols, machine guns, rocket launchers, and plasma beams. The ability to freely switch between these different weapon types on the fly allows players to adapt their playstyle to suit the current situation and enemy threats. In addition, the protagonist can utilize a shield to parry and reflect enemy projectiles, adding an extra layer of strategy to the combat.
Valfaris presents a steep learning curve, demanding that players master the controls, weapon switching, and enemy patterns to progress. However, the game's checkpoint system and weapon upgrade mechanics help to alleviate frustration. Players can choose to activate checkpoints, which provide a respawn point but limit resource gathering, or skip them to gain a health and energy boost, at the risk of having to repeat larger sections upon death. The boss battles are particularly well-designed, with each enemy exhibiting a unique set of attack patterns that players must learn and adapt to.
The game's controls are praised for their tightness and responsiveness, which are essential for navigating the challenging environments and enemy encounters. The 8-way aiming system, while initially frustrating for some, ultimately contributes to the game's precision and skill-based nature. The smooth movement and weapon handling allow for quick, decisive actions in the heat of battle, with the parrying mechanic being highlighted as a satisfying and well-implemented feature that adds depth to the combat.