Katana Zero – PAX East Preview
Katana Zero feels like a mash-up of all of the indie style 2D platforming games in the past few years. Its quick-paced 2D slashing feels incredibly great just like Dead Cells, and its hard as nails instant death with a quick respawn is similar to Hotline Miami. What really makes these similarities shine is how each level is hand crafted, making it feel perfect to play over and over each time you die.
Katana Zero‘s 2D platforming gameplay is perfectly paired with its neo-noir setting. Though we only got a small taste, story appeared to be an integral part of the experience. What’s most interesting about the story is how the player’s choices can affect the gameplay.
In our demo, I started the mission walking into a building and speaking to the secretary. She asked about the kimono I was wearing. Of the options I had, I choose to tell her it was cosplay and then proceed into the building to kills lots of dudes. After the mayhem was over, I headed out and was stopped by security since they had heard some of the commotion above and saw I was covered in blood. Lucky for me, the secretary stood up for me and told the guards I was in cosplay. Thanks!
Katana Zero has a very distinct and confident vibe. Bright neon colors dance across the screen, perfectly contrasting against the darker tones of the city. The electronic soundtrack set the tone to the mayhem perfectly.
Ben Smith
Producer
