Home News Absolum Is a Gorgeous Roguelite from the Makers of Streets of Rage 4

Absolum Is a Gorgeous Roguelite from the Makers of Streets of Rage 4

Author : Claire Mar 17,2025

Guard Crush Games, the studio behind Streets of Rage 4, is teaming up once again with Dotemu for a new beat-’em-up. This time, it’s Dotemu's first original IP: Absolum. Boasting stunning hand-drawn animation by Supamonks and a killer soundtrack by Gareth Coker, Absolum is shaping up to be something special. My hands-on experience confirmed this.

Absolum is a roguelite side-scrolling beat-’em-up action-RPG built for endless replayability. The game features branching paths, quests, diverse characters, and challenging bosses. I played as Karl, a tanky dwarf-like character, and Galandra, a nimble ranger-type. Gameplay involves battling fantasy creatures, smashing environments in search of health pickups, exploring buildings for treasure, and facing epic boss battles. Death is inevitable, but it’s part of the fun, sending you back for another run. Two-player co-op is also planned.

PlayThe game evokes a nostalgic feeling reminiscent of classic arcade beat-’em-ups and titles like *Golden Axe*. The simple yet effective two-button combat system allows for strategic attacks, while the roguelite elements add a modern twist and substantial replayability.
What is your favorite modern beat-'em-up? -----------------------------------------

AnswerSee ResultsPower-ups, both active and passive, add another layer of strategy. These randomize with each run, creating a risk-reward system. You can even drop unwanted items. The in-game shop, where you spend earned currency to buy upgrades between runs, wasn't fully functional in my preview build.

Absolum - First Screenshots

10 ImagesThe roguelite nature means death is a stepping stone to improvement. Boss battles are challenging, and I particularly struggled with the first major boss (a mammoth troll summoning goblins). Two-player co-op would undoubtedly enhance the experience.

Despite the unfinished shop in the preview build, Absolum shows immense potential. The art style, animation, gameplay, and roguelite loop, combined with the developers’ proven track record, create a promising formula. The game is poised to revitalize couch co-op, and I eagerly anticipate playing a more polished version.

Latest Articles More
  • Invincible: The Most Important New Characters to Expect in Season 3

    With Invincible Season 3 on the horizon, Prime Video unveiled a stellar voice cast addition, including Aaron Paul as Powerplex, John DiMaggio as The Elephant, and Simu Liu as Multi-Paul, Dupli-Kate's brother. However, the most intriguing additions remain shrouded in mystery: Jonathan Banks (Breakin

    Mar 17,2025
  • Can You Date People in Fields of Mistria?

    Fields of Mistria, from NPC Studio, is celebrated for its well-written characters, engaging dialogue, and thoughtfully crafted romance storylines. But can you actually *date* the romanceable characters within the game? Can You Date in Fields of Mistria?Screenshot by The EscapistThe short answer is:

    Mar 17,2025
  • Survival Horror, Maid Of Sker, Releases On Android Next Month

    Get ready to scream! Maid of Sker, the critically acclaimed survival horror game, is creeping onto Android this September. Having already chilled players on PC and consoles, this Welsh folklore-infused nightmare is poised to haunt your mobile device.A Welsh Horror StoryThe year is 1898. You are Th

    Mar 17,2025
  • PlayStation State of Play February 2025: Everything Announced

    The latest PlayStation State of Play showcase exploded with exciting game reveals and updates, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the future of PS5 gaming. Highlights included a captivating look at Housemarque's *Saros*, the *Returnal* spiritual successor, alongside fresh trailers and release date

    Mar 17,2025
  • Kingdom Come: Deliverance II has a huge Easter egg about legendary gamer

    Less than a day after Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2's release, players unearthed their first Easter eggs. One discovery stands out: a surprisingly affectionate tribute to the legendary Elden Ring player, Let Me Solo Her.Deep within the sprawling landscape of 15th-century Bohemia, players can stumble

    Mar 17,2025
  • All Two Point Museum Achievements and Trophies

    Thirty-five achievements await in *Two Point Museum*, ready to be unlocked. Below is a complete list, detailing each achievement and how to obtain it.Two Point Museum presents a diverse range of tasks, from completing story chapters to managing your staff. To conquer every challenge, consult this

    Mar 17,2025