The rogue-like genre is a packed field these days, but it takes a lot to get the balance right of what makes them enjoyable. Many developers end up with a game that fails to give players the right opportunities to observe, learn, and improve from their mistakes, and instead of challenging, their offerings become frustrating and discouraging. However, indie developer Motion Twin seem to have hit on the right formula, marrying the rhythmic, ‘dancing with the bosses’ style of combat from the Souls games with a Metroidvania style side-scrolling format and roguelike rules to create Dead Cells. Combine that with vibrant, colorful visuals and a kickin’ soundtrack heavy on orchestral and acoustic alike, and you’ve got a fast-paced, arcadey experience that’s great for quick 20 minute sprints, but that will absolutely devour entire days of your life if you’re not careful.
In it, you play the anonymous Prisoner, adventuring your way through dungeons, ramparts, sepulchers and castles to try and escape an island where a mysterious disease called the Malaise runs rampant. Those ruling the island have imprisoned the majority of the island’s mutated inhabitants (whom you’ll have the pleasure of meeting/slaying), retreating within their stronghold to try and escape their grasp.
Speaking in broader terms, he also says, “It’s an echo of the past, but looking to the future. That’s what I want to do with this. There’s got to be an umbilical cord that goes all the way back to “Action Comics” #1, that connects the whole DC Universe.” While the rest of the line will be relaunched with new #1’s, Action Comics and Detective Comics will return to their original numbering at #957 and #934, respectively, about which Johns says, “that alone, even though it seems small, I think it’s a huge symbol of what we’re trying to do.” He also says that, “This is definitely for comic book readers more than it is for casual readers, just like “Green Lantern: Rebirth,” but that doesn’t mean it’s exclusive of them.” Personally, I started reading DC comics with Green Lantern: Rebirth, and the story itself was good enough that rather than be discouraged by all of the history going over my head, I simply wanted to learn more about this world. For DC to pull off a similar feat with this upcoming event, it will all come down to the strength of the creative teams and their work. I’m cautiously optimistic at this point, but the proof will be in the pudding.
