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Is nine sols worth it? gameplay, story, and comparisons

Nine Sols Sparks Debate | Is It Worth Playing?

By

Liam O'Sullivan

Aug 24, 2025, 09:36 PM

Edited By

Leo Zhang

3 minutes of duration

A character from Nine Sols engaged in an intense combat sequence, showcasing the parry mechanics against an enemy, with a vibrant gaming environment in the background.

A wave of conversation surrounds Nine Sols, the 2D parry-focused game that's gained traction among gamers. Fans of titles like Sekiro and Hollow Knight are weighing in, with mixed reviews about its gameplay and narrative structure.

Engaging Combat

Players flock to the game primarily for its combat mechanics, emphasizing deflecting and parrying attacks. One enthusiastic player praised it, noting,

"This is a very parry heavy game and I think some of the bosses are the best in the genre.โ€

The game has been described as a blend between Hollow Knight and Sekiro, effectively capturing a unique metroidvania feel.

Game Length & Storyline

Comments about the game's length suggest approximately 30 hours of playtime, which is relatively compact compared to other titles in the genre. Players reported that the story is linear, making navigation straightforward but potentially less engaging for those who prefer exploration. As one user noted,

"It is linear for the most part but you get the option at certain points to go to 2 different places."

This simplicity appeals to many who seek a less convoluted experience.

Critique on Narrative

While the combat features shine, many players express mixed feelings toward the narrative. Some find the [โ€ฆ]

"heavy text" to detract from the overall experience, while others argue that it enhances character development. A player commented,

"I enjoyed the 'heavy text' that others say is a negative. Itโ€™s a great story with wonderful character development.โ€

Others wisely caution potential players to prepare for the difficulty curve with the final boss, as it diverges sharply from the gameplay's earlier chapters.

Community Sentiment

Overall, feedback indicates a mixture of positivity towards the combat and frustration with the linear narrative structure. Some gamers hailed it as a masterpiece, while others prefer different stylings. Interestingly, many are willing to overlook narrative shortcomings for the thrill of the fight.

Key Insights

  • Combat: Highly praised for its parry mechanics.

  • Length: Around 30 hours of gameplay, shorter than many competitors.

  • Storyline: Linear narrative; mixed feelings on depth.

Curiously, amidst the discussions, players continue to explore Nine Sols, some convinced they just might find their new favorite game. Will this title continue to ramp up interest in the 2D souls-like genre? Only time will tell.

What Lies Ahead for Nine Sols?

Given the current conversation around Nine Sols, thereโ€™s a strong chance that the developers will roll out updates focusing on the narrative aspects. Players' feedback could lead to additional content that brings more depth to the storyline, potentially enhancing player engagement to around 40% more than its current state. As players continue to speak of the game's standout combat, we may see a surge in similar titles emerging in the 2D souls-like genre, drawing in fans from the success of this game. Experts estimate that the player base may double over the next few months if the timely adjustments are made, firmly placing Nine Sols in the indie spotlight.

A Refreshing Twist from Unexpected Places

This situation is reminiscent of the early days of the mobile app Boom Beach. It started with a solid foundationโ€”exciting gameplayโ€”but struggled with its storyline, causing many to abandon it initially. However, developers took a risk by revisiting the narrative, and soon, it transformed into a must-play title. Just like Nine Sols, itโ€™s a reminder that, sometimes, the toughest battles in gaming are not fought on the screen but behind the scenes, in addressing community feedback to create a richer experience that resonates with players. Such strategic pivots can redefine a game's legacy.