The term “soulslike” definitely knows how to divide a community. On the one hand, you have people stepping up to the challenge, ready to die over and over again. But on the other, you have those that desire going deeper, but fear the idea that they’ll never make progress. So, they move on to something else. We’ve seen many examples as of late in this genre, but nothing – and I do mean nothing – like Modern Wolf’s Void Sols.
Because rather than just taking the Elden Ring approach, it works with a much less sophisticated design. You’re a triangle, making their way through a murky top-down world filled with danger. You’ve got a dodge technique and a sword to start. But the deeper you dig, the more you’ll find. And the better chance you’ll have to survive against a brutal world.
Now, being a “soulslike,” Void Sols clearly won’t sit pretty with everyone. It’s definitely challenging, especially in later stages of the game. (Stupid bosses!) But it rewards patience with more buffs and weapons. It also develops a deeper feel, even with its straightforward build.
The end result is a game that might throw you off, but eggs you on to try again. Like any good “soulslike” should. It’s not as visually stunning as other games in the genre. But Void Sols has the nature of survival down pat, and fans of the genre shouldn’t miss it.
Those Poor Unfortunately Void Sols
So, as I mentioned above, Void Sols looks simple at first. But, no, Geometry Wars this ain’t, You move your little triangle through a slowly lit world, hitting torches and sneaking your way around enemies. Of course, you’ll need to get into combat at some point. This is where Finite Reflection’s tactics come in.
The dodge technique is awesome, allowing you to zip to another side but not letting you “spam” it like crazy. It feels natural. The attack techniques are also fairly simple, but work great. And as you buff your character and become stronger – and get better weapons, mind you – you feel the evolution. It’s not just a matter of plastering something in. You actually feel a bit of growth in this triangle character.
And the more you dig, the better you get. This includes finding a map to get a better idea of the area. You can also break down walls and find cool items, including shields. I cannot recommend this enough, simply because these are life savers when you’re bombarded. And yes, you will be bombarded. Enemies get tougher as they go on, and the bosses – through not heavily detailed – are diabolical.
And you will die. Let’s get that out of the way. Death comes quickly and often, so be ready for that. But you stick with the game, like any “soulslike,” and you’ll get so much back. Clearly this isn’t a game built for rookies. But dedicated players will get an idea of what it’s about.
Void Sols doesn’t look like a typical “soulslike,” but that’s a benefit. The general nature of the genre is completely intact. And it truly works in a top-down world, especially a mysterious one like this. I do wish the difficulty didn’t get so heinous later on, but by that point, maybe you’re ready for the challenge. This is definitely a game worth checking out, even if it doesn’t look like typical Souls fare.
A Dark and Dungy Void
Though built much smaller than most 3D fare, Void Sols pulls off a neat trick.
With its elementary lighting and world, it actually looks great. You can creep around and see what lies ahead (if you’re careful) and plan your next move. And the lighting in particular is really well done, especially when it comes to the torches. You think they wouldn’t serve a benefit. But I assure you, they do. Plan carefully.
I also like the small animations. The weapon effects look great, and even the dashing techniques have some flair to them. Some more enemy variations would’ve been nice, but they’re not bad at all.
The sound also plays a good part. Though the soundtrack isn’t what I’d call brooding, it’s still good. And the effects are spot on, for what they are. Don’t expect Elden Ring levels of design, but do expect just the right amount of involvement.
Again, it’s not overwhelming presentation, but it doesn’t need to be. Sometimes smaller is better.
Don’t A-Void This One
Void Sols looks like it could throw people off at first. “This? This is a Souls game?” you might say to yourself. But stick it out. What starts out throwing you into something small grows into a much bigger experience. And one that just might surprise you, as it did me.
It plays wonderfully, even if the challenge is a bit overwhelming at times. And there’s a lot to offer, depending how deep you dig. Plus the presentation, for an indie title, is quite nice. Even if you are just a triangle.
Some of you may find it hard to move past the glory of Elden Ring. But Void Sols reminds us that there are still gems waiting in the indie world. It’s the sort of game that catches you off guard. In the right way, of course.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Many thanks to Finite Reflection Studios for the review code. You can buy the game on Steam now!
Need more down and dirty gaming? Check out our reviews of Irem Collection Vol. 2 and Castlevania Dominus Collection!
