Let's talk about a hidden gem in the world of fighting games that has me absolutely hooked: Combo Devils. This game, developed by Punkzilla, is a unique blend of genres that has captured my attention and left me eager for more.
A Perfect Fusion of Fighting Styles
Combo Devils takes the best elements of Smash Brothers, traditional 2D fighters, and roguelite gameplay, and combines them into a fresh and exciting experience. As someone who has dedicated countless hours to these genres, I can tell you that this game hits all the right notes.
The core gameplay is reminiscent of Smash, with its light and strong attacks, and special moves. But what sets it apart is the directional shield mechanic. This adds a layer of strategy and skill, allowing for creative maneuvers like crossups and air dashes. It's a brilliant twist that keeps the action engaging and dynamic.
The Art of Combos
The fighting system is a masterpiece in itself. It encourages flashy and fun combos, thanks to the gatling-style combo logic. Every character has a unique kit, and you can rely on basic combos to get started, but the real fun lies in discovering and executing advanced techniques. The super meter adds another layer of depth, allowing for powerful EX specials and super moves.
Characters with Personality
The characters in Combo Devils are a diverse bunch, each with their own distinct playstyle. My personal favorite is Shai, a nostalgic nod to the '90s with his gamer-meets-delivery-boy aesthetic. His arsenal includes a skateboard, power glove, and beyblade top, making for some unique and entertaining moves. Jingo, the ninja dog, is another standout with his blistering speed and teleporting abilities.
A Missed Opportunity with Roguelite Mode
While the developers took a bold step by including a roguelite mode, it currently feels like a missed opportunity. Roguelites thrive on variety and adaptation, but in Combo Devils, each run feels too similar. The generic enemies and lack of meaningful progression or challenges make it less engaging than it could be.
Online Excellence
Where Combo Devils truly shines is in its online play. The rollback netcode is exceptional, providing a seamless and lag-free experience. Even precise timing-based moves like Shai's active reload feel identical to offline play. This is a testament to the developers' commitment to delivering a top-notch online experience.
A Bright Future
Despite being in an early stage of development, Combo Devils shows immense promise. The core gameplay is solid, the characters are fun and unique, and the online play is exceptional. With some polish and further development, this game has the potential to become a major player in the platform fighting genre.
Personally, I can't wait to see what Punkzilla does next. Combo Devils has me hooked, and I'm eager to see how they continue to refine and expand this already impressive game.
