The gaming community is buzzing about the upcoming RPG, Sword Hero, particularly for its innovative and deeply engaging combat mechanics. This title promises an experience reminiscent of classic RPGs like Elder Scrolls or Gothic, but with an action-packed combat system that stands out as superior to many contemporary action games. The game is set in a peculiar ring world inhabited by intriguing NPCs who adhere to daily routines and possess a unique procedural vengeance system, adding layers of depth to player interactions.
My personal experience with the latest demo for Sword Hero evoked a similar sense of exhilaration and high stakes as intense PvP battles in games like Armored Core 6. The game’s combat system is so compelling that it consumed my entire workday and evening, blurring the lines between gaming and reality. After a previous demo offered a glimpse into its narrative and world-building, this updated demo focuses entirely on combat, presenting 35 unique fights across various arenas with randomized gear and tiered enemies. This structure, coupled with a roguelike progression system, kept me endlessly engaged, always pushing for 'just one more run'.
What truly elevates Sword Hero's combat is its blend of influences. It takes the fluidity of movement and aiming found in Jedi Academy/Outsider, combines it with the impactful weight and unforgiving nature of FromSoftware titles, and integrates a perfect parry system akin to Sekiro. Engaging in methodical circling, strategic lunges, and baiting out enemy attacks for that satisfying parry creates an incredibly tactile and rewarding experience. Beyond its core mechanics, the game introduces a dynamic environment with elements like open flames, pressure plate spike traps, and explosive mines, allowing for creative and chaotic combat scenarios that embody the emergent gameplay seen in immersive sims such as Dark Messiah or Baldur's Gate 3. The innovative dismemberment system, where limbs can be severed, forcing characters to adapt or fall, adds another layer of visceral detail and is slated to evolve into a full robo-prosthetic upgrade system in the final release, drawing comparisons to Kenshi.
The demo alone offers exceptional value, having absorbed nearly 10 hours of my time. While there are minor concerns regarding the comparative satisfaction of alternative play styles like rogue or mage, and the current state of archery, these are minor criticisms for a game still under development. Sword Hero has already significantly surpassed its Kickstarter funding goals, indicating strong community support and confidence in its potential. With a robust development roadmap and an ambitious release target of December 2027, the future looks bright for this promising RPG.
