The various parts of the map are rich, featuring oppressive, sullen atmospheres that persist throughout the entirety of the game.

The world of Salt & Sanctuary is massive as well, with each area showing as much polish as the enemies that populate them. NPCs and Creeds also serve to help paint a greater overall idea of just how bad things in this universe have become. Items have detailed descriptions that flesh out the backstory of the world and the presence of a bestiary enhances the world even more. Ska Studios is also clearly a fan of the cryptic storytelling and mechanics that From Software is known for. The mechanics that Souls games are known for are just as present in this one as well, both good and bad. Again, this isn’t uncommon for games of this genre, so it’s not necessarily a detraction so much as it is recognition of Ska Studio’s work to try and capture this style of game on a 2D plane. As you explore each area, the platforming can be a bit cumbersome as well, with the occasional death being caused by a missed grab of a ledge or accidentally falling off a platform. The tight, strategic combat that you deal with for each minor enemy doesn’t come to fruition like with bosses, but they’re still a treat to battle through without a doubt.

Finding your window to attack is still just as important as ever, but it feels like bosses can be brute-forced through, trading enough blows and chugging enough healing flasks until you come out on top. The move to 2D has naturally caused a few issues in capturing that brutal combat that the Souls series is known for, but Salt & Sanctuary has mostly done an excellent job.

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