AtanariaIn the world of video games, few genres have garnered as much acclaim and infamy as the “Souls-like” category. Originating with FromSoftware’s groundbreaking Demon’s Souls and solidified by the Dark Souls series, these games are known for their brutal difficulty, intricate level design, and deep, often cryptic lore. Enter Steelrising, a 2022 release from French developer Spiders Studio. While Spiders is better known for its RPGs like GreedFall and The Technomancer, Steelrising marks the studio’s bold entry into the Souls-like genre, bringing with it a distinct narrative flavor and a unique twist on the formula.
Setting and Story: A Revolutionary Take on History
One of the most striking aspects of Steelrising is its setting—an alternate history version of 1789 Paris during the French Revolution. However, this isn’t the Paris you’re familiar with from history books. In Steelrising, King Louis XVI has quashed the Revolution with a terrifying army of automatons. These mechanical soldiers, designed to protect the monarchy, have instead turned Paris into a city of nightmares.
The player steps into the role of Aegis, an extraordinary automaton crafted by Vaucanson, an inventor who has secretly turned against the King. Aegis is not just any machine; she is an elegant and deadly warrior, imbued with a semblance of humanity. Her mission is to confront the King’s mechanical army and uncover the truth behind the horrors plaguing the city. The game’s story intertwines real historical events with dark fantasy elements, creating a narrative that feels both fresh and familiar.
This alternate history is more than just a backdrop; it’s central to the game’s atmosphere and lore. The French Revolution is a period rich with themes of oppression, rebellion, and the fight for freedom, all of which are amplified in Steelrising through the lens of its dystopian scenario. This setting not only serves to make the game’s world more immersive but also positions Steelrising as a unique narrative experience within the Souls-like genre.
Gameplay: A Souls-like with a French Twist
At its core, Steelrising is unmistakably a Souls-like game. It features the hallmarks of the genre: methodical combat, challenging enemies, and a world designed with interconnected levels that encourage exploration. However, Spiders Studio has introduced several innovative mechanics that set Steelrising apart from its peers.
1. Combat and Mobility
Combat in Steelrising is heavily inspired by the precision and timing required in other Souls-like games, but it incorporates a level of fluidity and agility that feels unique. Aegis is an automaton, and this is reflected in her movement and abilities. She can perform rapid dashes, chain attacks with grace, and use a variety of weapons that range from heavy clubs to versatile fans. The game emphasizes a balance between offensive and defensive maneuvers, rewarding players who learn enemy patterns and time their actions carefully.
One of the standout features in Steelrising is the inclusion of verticality in combat and exploration. Aegis is equipped with a grappling hook, allowing her to reach higher ground and access hidden areas, adding a new dimension to both exploration and combat strategy. This feature is particularly refreshing in a genre where grounded, horizontal combat has been the norm.
2. Customization and Progression
Steelrising offers deep customization options, allowing players to tailor Aegis to their preferred playstyle. Players can choose from different classes at the start, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. As they progress, they can upgrade Aegis with new components, enhancing her abilities and unlocking new combat techniques. This RPG-like progression system gives players a strong sense of agency and encourages multiple playthroughs.
Additionally, the game’s “Oil Management” system introduces a resource management element that ties directly into Aegis’ abilities. Just like stamina management in Dark Souls, players must carefully balance their use of abilities, as overexertion can lead to overheating, leaving Aegis vulnerable. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy to every encounter, making even minor battles feel tense and engaging.
3. Level Design and Exploration
Paris in Steelrising is a sprawling, interconnected world, filled with secrets and hidden paths. The city is divided into several districts, each with its own unique aesthetic and challenges. The developers have paid meticulous attention to detail, crafting environments that feel both eerie and beautiful. The architecture of 18th-century Paris is reimagined with a steampunk twist, blending historical accuracy with fantastical elements.
Exploration is a key aspect of the game, with players encouraged to revisit areas after acquiring new abilities or items that unlock previously inaccessible locations. This Metroidvania-inspired design enhances the sense of discovery and rewards players who pay close attention to their surroundings.
Why Steelrising is a Genre-Changing Experience
While Steelrising may not reinvent the wheel of the Souls-like genre, it certainly brings new spokes to it. The game’s innovative mechanics, combined with its rich narrative and distinctive setting, make it a standout title in a crowded field. Here’s why Steelrising is more than just another Souls-like game:
1. A Unique Narrative Experience
The story of Steelrising is one of its strongest elements. By setting the game during the French Revolution and infusing it with dark fantasy, Spiders Studio has created a narrative that feels both epic and intimate. The game explores themes of freedom, identity, and the consequences of unchecked power, all through the lens of a world where history has taken a dark turn. This narrative depth is rare in the genre, where storylines are often secondary to gameplay.
2. Innovation within Familiar Mechanics
Steelrising doesn’t just copy the formula of its predecessors; it builds upon it. The introduction of vertical exploration, the Oil Management system, and the deep customization options all contribute to a gameplay experience that feels fresh while still maintaining the challenging combat that fans of the genre crave.
3. Atmosphere and World-Building
The reimagined Paris of Steelrising is a character in itself. The game’s world is rich with atmosphere, blending the grandeur of 18th-century architecture with the eerie presence of mechanical monstrosities. This, coupled with a haunting musical score and intricate environmental storytelling, creates a world that is both captivating and unsettling.
A Bold Step Forward for Spiders Studio
Steelrising is a game that takes risks, and for the most part, they pay off. It’s a game that respects the conventions of the Souls-like genre while also pushing its boundaries. The combination of a unique narrative, innovative mechanics, and a richly detailed world make Steelrising a must-play for fans of the genre and newcomers alike.
In the end, Steelrising is not just a great Souls-like game; it’s a testament to the creativity and ambition of Spiders Studio. By taking a familiar genre and infusing it with a distinctly French flavor, they have created a game that stands out in a crowded market, offering a fresh and memorable experience that will resonate with players long after the credits roll.
