Pow Pixel Games has burst onto the indie game scene with Abathor, a retro-style fantasy hack ‘n’ slash platformer for the Nintendo Switch. Drawing inspiration from classic belt scrollers of the ’80s and ’90s, the game is a nostalgic throwback to the arcade era.
Set in the mythical land of Atlantis, Abathor follows a band of heroes on a quest to close the gates of Abathor and banish demons back to their realm. The gameplay is straightforward, focusing on jumping in and battling through hordes of monsters with the lives you’re given. While there is some lore to explore between levels, the game keeps things simple and action-packed.
Players can choose from four unique heroes, each with their own set of abilities that can significantly impact gameplay. From the Barbarian Crantor with his large sword swing to the magic-wielding Azaes, each character offers a different playstyle for players to master. The game also features traditional difficulty levels that affect the number of credits players receive before facing a game over screen.
One of the highlights of Abathor is the four-player co-op mode, allowing friends to team up and take on the monster horde together. The game’s reward system incentivizes teamwork, with the player with the most kills earning a prize after each level. Lives are shared among the party, encouraging players to revive each other and work together to overcome challenges.
While Abathor excels in capturing the essence of classic arcade games, some aspects may feel dated to modern players. Combat can be challenging due to the restricted movements of the player sprite, and some design choices, such as the lack of campaign progression saves, may frustrate players looking for a more streamlined experience.
Despite these drawbacks, Abathor delivers a fun and engaging homage to retro hack ‘n’ slash games. With its simple controls, vibrant pixel art, and exciting co-op mode, the game offers a nostalgic experience for players looking to relive the glory days of arcade gaming. Whether playing solo or with friends, Abathor promises hours of entertainment for fans of the genre.
