9 Years of Shadows, the radiant pixel art Metroidvania from developer Halberd Studios and publisher Freedom Games, takes some extra time to check for secret breakable walls on PC via Steam and Epic Game Store, now taking center stage on Monday, November 14, 2022. The Nintendo Switch version awaits in the wings for its time to shine in Q1 2023.
Color has been stripped from a once-prosperous land due to a calamitous curse leaving the world in shades of only black and white. Young operatic warrior Europa takes up her massive halberd and sets out to restore the chromatic essence of life. Enter the Talos Castle, ground zero for this ghastly disaster, to take on gruesome enemies and more than 20 rhythmic bosses across 11 biomes alongside a magical specter in the form of Europa’s childhood teddy bear, Apino.
Control both Europa and Apino simultaneously to mix up attacks while also utilizing their individual offensive and healing magics. Don one of four different elemental armor sets channeling the power of Greek gods. Swing an 8-foot long halberd, classically backstep out of danger’s way, shoot projectiles with Apino’s shield energy, and take note of each foe’s elemental weaknesses.
Music is at the core of everything throughout 9 Years of Shadows; touting a soundtrack by celebrated composers Michiru Yamane (Castlevania series) and Norihiko Hibino (Metal Gear Solid series). Composed and recorded specifically at 432hz, the scientifically proven frequency to promote feelings of healing and positivity, each song empowers everyone to see their strengths in the struggles of each encounter. Boss’ attack patterns are tuned to their respective track rhythm to create iconic flow states and the feeling of physically traversing a sheet of music, solidifying the music’s impact on the story, art, gameplay, and overall design.
“When you make a colorful splash into the Metroidvania genre, you have to make sure it’s near perfect, especially since it’s one of our absolute favorites”, said Miguel Hasson, Creative Director of Halberd Studios, “The team has worked very hard to create not only something that’s beautiful with a compelling story, but also utilizing its prevalent themes of musicality in every aspect of the game’s design. Make sure to bring your dancing shoes and warm up those vocal chords for November!”
9 Years of Shadows will now arrive on PC via Steam and Epic Game Store on November 14, 2022 for $20 with English and Spanish language support. The Nintendo Switch version will arrive in Q1 2023. To learn more, visit 9 Years of Shadows’ official website, join the community on Twitter and Discord, and search #9YearsofShadows on social media.
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