Coatsink’s Replaced has been turning heads with its incredible pixel art visuals, reminiscent of Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2. While Hellblade 2 showcased the capabilities of Unreal Engine 5, Replaced demonstrates the power of pixel art in creating stunning and immersive gaming experiences. Over the past few years, Replaced has captivated audiences with its visually appealing trailers, and after experiencing it firsthand at Summer Game Fest Play Days, anticipation for the game has only grown.
Replaced follows the story of R.E.A.C.H., an AI that merges with a human named Warren and finds itself on the run from authorities. The pixel art in Replaced is nothing short of exceptional, offering a blend of retro nostalgia and modern flair. It masterfully utilizes lighting, shot composition, and intricate details to create visually stunning environments without overwhelming players during gameplay and combat. The pixel art in Replaced sets a new benchmark for the genre, rivaling even the acclaimed HD-2D RPGs from Square Enix.
In terms of gameplay, Replaced draws inspiration from cinematic platformers like Another World for its traversal and Batman: Arkham for its rhythmic combat. Players must master a flow of attacking, blocking, and dodging to build up energy for powerful execution attacks. Defeating armored enemies requires strategic dodging and the use of heavy attacks to break their defenses, creating a cinematic combat experience akin to a John Wick film fight, albeit rendered in pixel art. While the combat could potentially become repetitive if not expanded upon, the demo provided a satisfying glimpse of Replaced’s combat mechanics.
Coatsink has taken steps to address potential pitfalls that plagued Hellblade 2. Replaced will feature a variety of collectibles, such as full songs accessible through a Walkman-like device. The game will also incorporate open-ended areas where players can embark on quests, adding depth and variety to the gameplay. If these aspects are well-executed, Replaced will offer a well-rounded experience that balances style with substance.
Coatsink’s Replaced remains among the most eagerly anticipated indie games, and after experiencing it firsthand, expectations have only heightened. The game lacks a release date for now as the developers wisely seek feedback from Summer Game Fest and aim to further polish the game. Upon its eventual release, Replaced will be available on Xbox Game Pass for both console and PC, promising to captivate gamers with its visual brilliance, cinematic combat, and immersive storytelling.
