Your next obsession might be a perfectly timed parry.

Nine Sols is a hand-drawn 2D action platformer from Red Candle Games. Released on May 28, 2024, it follows a vengeful hero through a realm shaped by eastern fantasy and an ancient alien civilisation.

The studio describes its combat as inspired by Sekiro, with deflection at its centre. That is the key detail if you are choosing your next game: learning the rhythm of an opponent is a central part of the pitch.

Our take: it belongs on the shortlist for players who want deliberate, demanding action in a 2D world. The hand-drawn art and unusual setting give it an identity beyond its combat reference points.

If the idea of learning an enemy's timing sounds more rewarding than rushing past it, keep Nine Sols on your list. We are leaving its bosses and story turns for you to discover.