Platform(s): PC (version reviewed)
Genre: Fast-paced Mobility Action Game

Katana Rama, the latest offering from Malaysian indie developer Ghost Machine Games, took me on a brief yet exhilarating journey into the heart of a digital realm. As a hacker program armed with a formidable sword, I embarked on a fast-paced adventure to break through digital security systems, facing off against enemies, and powerful bosses, and unraveling the mysteries surrounding my character and weapon.

Some Edging Involved

The game’s strengths lie in its mobility-based gameplay, where I had to constantly move to avoid enemy attacks while strategically accumulating power to overcome stronger foes. The one-hit kill mechanic added a satisfying challenge, rewarding me for skilful navigation and precise strikes. The unique point system, coupled with distinctive graphics and an outstanding boss theme, created a memorable gaming experience.

Speed Through It

However, the standout feature of Katana Rama comes with a significant drawback – its length. Clocking in at just over 30 minutes for a complete playthrough, the game felt more like a demo than a full-fledged indie title. Despite the undeniable fun factor and the evident passion poured into the project, the RM26.75 (US$10) price tag was a steep ask for the limited content provided.

This left me yearning for more depth, complexity, and a more justified investment. Although, as of writing this, Steam is currently having its Black Friday and Autumn Sale so the game does have a 30% discount. So now’s a better time than any to try out this game.

While I acknowledge the shortcoming in length, there is a genuine appreciation for the game’s existing qualities, marking it as recommended and expressing a desire to support indie developers. The call for expansion, the introduction of new abilities showcased in cutscenes and the intriguing fragmented sword from promotional art, hint at the untapped potential of Katana Rama.

The game’s nostalgic charm, drawing parallels with the Medabots series, was a delightful surprise. The gameplay mechanics were praised for their uniqueness, requiring me to accumulate power strategically to overcome progressively stronger enemies. The comparison to Sonic Adventures 2 Battle added another layer of familiarity, showcasing the game’s potential to evoke fond memories of classic titles.

However, the lack of clear instructions and occasional camera angle issues were noted as cons. These aspects, if addressed, could enhance the overall player experience, making the game more accessible and enjoyable. Despite these shortcomings, I highly recommend Katana Rama, especially for mech and hack-and-slash enthusiasts.

The parallel drawn with another well-received game, Karlson, was intriguing, and I commend Katana Rama for its character design, challenging stage design, and impressive music. The desire for more updates and additional stages is evident, reflecting my eagerness to delve deeper into the cybernetic world crafted by Ghost Machine Games.

In conclusion, Katana Rama, while facing criticism for its brevity and minor issues, managed to captivate me with its unique gameplay mechanics, distinctive aesthetics, and undeniable passion from the developer. The consensus is clear – this indie gem has great potential, and with further development and expansion, it could evolve into a must-play title for fans of the action genre.

Pros

• The game has unique and engaging gameplay mechanics.
• The one-hit kill mechanic and point system contribute positively to the gaming experience.
• The graphics are distinctive and well-designed.
• The boss theme and music enhance the overall atmosphere.
• The nostalgic charm for fans of Medabots and Sonic Adventures 2 Battle is a positive aspect.
• The passion of the developer is evident in the design.
• Commendable character design and challenging stage design.

Cons

• Playthrough time is too short.
• Limited content for the RM26.75 price tag.
• Unclear instructions and occasional camera angle issues impact the player experience.
• Potential missed opportunity with abilities showcased in cutscenes not being available during gameplay.
• The need for clearer instructions.
• Shortcomings in length leave players wanting a more extended experience.

Final Score: 60/100

Review copy provided by publisher & developer.