Absolver Review – A Martial Arts Odyssey

Absolver is a unique fusion of martial arts-themed combat, RPG mechanics, and an immersive narrative, making it an intriguing player in the action role-playing game genre. Developed by Sloclap and published by Devolver Digital, the game throws players into an alternate reality, entrusting them with the sacred mission of earning the title of Absolver. This review delves into the game’s key elements, exploring its distinctive gameplay mechanics, graphics, and story.

• Developer: Sloclap
• Publisher: Devolver Digital
• Release Date: August 29, 2017
• Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
• Official Website: Official site
• Genre: Action role-playing game

Gameplay

In Absolver, players begin their journey as Prospects, lowly warriors adorned with mystical masks that are transported to the forsaken world of Adal. Tasked by the Guides, the ruling class of this land, players must navigate the enigmatic ruins and conquer a series of adversaries, culminating in an ultimate showdown at the top of the Tower of Adal. Achieving Absolution enables the player to ascend from Prospect to an Absolver, opening up a plethora of opportunities to learn new combat styles, acquire potent weapons, gear and armour, and mentor other aspirants.

The core of the gameplay in Absolver lies in its third-person melee combat, intricately woven with complex attack combinations and tactical manoeuvres. The game requires players to deftly utilize their primary attack and special attack buttons, adapting them to one of four unique stances. Each stance imparts a different set of moves to the player’s arsenal, allowing for a diverse range of strategies.

In addition to mastering the art of attack, players must also adeptly read their enemy’s movements, making the combat experience a strategic dance of attack and defence. Patience is a virtue in Absolver’s combat system, as impetuous strikes or poorly timed defences can lead to severe consequences.

Absolver also introduces the concept of “combat decks,” allowing players to compile an array of moves and combinations tailored to their fighting style. Players start the game with one of three combat styles but can unlock a multitude of techniques as they progress through the game.

While Absolver can be played offline against AI opponents, the online mode is where the game truly shines. The game encourages multiplayer combat and social interactions, with non-verbal emotes serving as the primary means of communication. The online mode allows for cooperative PvE adventures, PvP combat, and the formation of schools, where players can mentor others.

Completing the primary objective of defeating the final boss is not the end of the player’s journey. As an Absolver, the player can participate in combat trials, which are PvP mode challenges. Victorious trials unlock tougher versions of three main boss encounters, presenting an opportunity to earn superior gear.

Graphics

Absolver boasts minimalist yet captivating graphics, enveloping players in its haunting world. From the desolate ruins to the formidable Tower of Adal, every environment is intricately crafted to instill a sense of wonder and exploration. The character designs are equally compelling, especially with the unique masks that add a layer of mystery and intrigue to the game’s lore.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Absolver is a well-crafted game that beautifully melds martial arts combat with action RPG elements. Its unique combat system, immersive world, and engaging multiplayer mode create an unparalleled gaming experience. Despite a few drawbacks, Absolver presents a challenging yet rewarding journey for fans of combat-focused games. With its unique blend of elements, Absolver is more than just a fighting game; it’s a martial arts odyssey that every action RPG enthusiast should embark on.

Absolver System Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Memory: 4 GB
• Graphics Card: GeForce GTX 480
• CPU: Intel Core i7-950
• File Size: 11 GB
• OS: Windows 7/8/10 (64 bit)

Recommended Requirements

• Memory: 8 GB
• Graphics Card: GeForce GTX 960
• CPU: Intel Core i5-4670K
• File Size: 11 GB
• OS: Windows 7/8/10 (64 bit)