Pixel art Metroidvania 9 Years of Shadows will be available for PC on March 27th via Steam and the Epic Games Store, followed by Switch in Q3 2023, publisher Freedom Games and developer Halberd Studios announced.
Here is an overview of the game via Freedom Games:
Around
For nine long years, the world has been immersed in the deepest shadows that rob every object and living being of their color. Once a thriving civilization, people have forgotten the warmth of the sun, the joy of laughter, and the promise of a prosperous future.
Many brave souls have attempted to venture into the fatal depths of Talos Castle, a long-abandoned orphanage from which the curse originated, but with each failed attempt, resignation became the daily fare for the people, all hope lost. Except for one person.
Armed with little more than her halberd and sheer nerve, Europa’s daunting quest is clear: enter the castle, find the source of darkness, and bring color to the lands before it’s too late.
end the curse
Embark on a life-changing journey. Assume the role of Europa and brave the amazing halls of Talos Castle as you uncover the disturbing truth about the fate of its inhabitants. A moving coming-of-age story that emphasizes the importance of embracing our feelings in order to heal. Embark on a journey of friendship as Europa and her faithful companion, Apino, learn to rely on each other to overcome any obstacle and help others along the way.
Meet unforgettable and enigmatic characters. Find the remains of ancient civilizations. Enter gates that speak echoes of the past.
Restore the world through music
With a gorgeous and soothing 432Hz soundtrack composed by Michiru Yamane (Castlevania franchise) and Norihiko Hibino (Metal Gear Solid franchise), healing music plays an important role in both gameplay and narrative.
Collect grades and improve your skills. Complete quests for the composers and their orchestra in the Teatro Degollado. Decipher enemy attack patterns through music.
Master the elements
Face countless enemies on your way to victory, each as formidable as they are deadly. But with the right elemental armour, Europa and Apino are a force to be reckoned with.
Strategically switch between your elemental armor to gain dominion over the various creatures that lurk in the shadows. Harness the power of Poseidon, Gaia, and Helios to solve puzzles and gain access to otherwise inaccessible locations to defeat giant bosses in classic Metroidvania fashion.
Explore a stunning pixel art world
Explore the vibrant surroundings of Talos Castle, where colorful characters, stunning architecture of ancient peoples, and otherworldly paintings await those brave enough to seek them out. Inside, the enemies that reside within are as beautiful as they are deadly, a mix of biological and mechanical parts ready to strike. Explore the map to find treasures, handcrafted landscapes, and ancient secrets worthy of a hero.
Explore an old-fashioned mechanical giant cloaked in corruption. Fight hidden bosses with an intuitive combat system. Loot collectibles and delve deeper into the lore of Talos. Obtain power-ups that give Europa and Apino unprecedented combat potential in the corrupted world.
Watch a new trailer about IGN below.
Release Date Trailer
