At Spiders, we love exploring different types of RPGs. Since its creation, we’ve experimented with different styles of combat systems and learned new things with each release. Our goal with our latest game, Steelrising, was to focus on delivering a more action-oriented, purposeful, detailed, and enjoyable combat experience.
game of souls
From Demon’s Souls remakes to Elden Ring, Soulslike games have captured the attention of players. Of course, that wasn’t always the case when we started Steelrising, but everyone on the team wanted to pay homage to the genre. We wanted to focus on combat and make sure players had to think about the best course of action and the skills at their disposal, but in our own universe. I decided to create an assist mode because I wanted to share it with players of
Steelrising leans towards a Soulslike formula, but with the unique core of a Spiders game.
The story of Steelrising takes place one night at the very beginning of a twisted version of the French Revolution. Automata are rampant. They completely overwhelmed the revolutionaries. These humans had no chance at all, even in the face of the most basic of these creations.
Fighting fire with fire, you are Paris’ last hope. A single automaton against an army, your task will not be easy. Underestimating all the enemies that stand in your way can be your last enemy.
We decided to focus on a detailed combat system, not only forcing the player to save the city, but also for the persistent dangers in trying to do so. Timing, studying every move of your opponent, not paying too much attention to not realizing that you are outnumbered, and finding your opponent’s weaknesses are the keys to success.
Yes they are strong, but so are you.
Besides mastering the skills, you also have to manage the cooling system. The more aggressive you get in combat, the hotter you get, potentially overheating your aegis and temporarily incapacitating it. However, by using instant cooling, you can quickly lower your body temperature and land a few more hits or escape to safety. But be careful! If used excessively or at the wrong time, it can completely freeze you in combat and expose you to attacks.
In addition to stamina management, other classic action-RPG aspects include stats that need to be upgraded carefully, and numerous items and modules to collect to customize and enhance your playstyle.
One of the gameplay characteristics of Steelrising is its verticality. Aegis can jump, and this ability opens up new possibilities to attack enemies to surprise them, use different combos, or even avoid some fights entirely if you prefer to fight. It’s very useful in combat, but it’s also another way to explore the city and its narrow streets.
Aegis and her weapon
Aegis is not just an automaton. She’s a complex masterpiece, with many possible fighting styles at her disposal. She can be a fearless bodyguard, a quick and deadly dancer, or an alchemist who shoots from a distance. Of course, your Aegis fighting style can be changed and adjusted at any time during your journey.
We wanted Steelrising’s combat system to have its own identity and reflect the mechanical nature of Aegis. So not only does she have a weapon, it’s actually an extension of her body.
Weapons, with 9 types and over 40 variations, are the core components of Steelrising.
You’ll find familiar weapons like maces and dual swords, but also unique weapons like Aegis, like fans that can turn into shields, and quirky weapons like the Alchemical Rifle, which consumes precious alchemicals. Capsules you can find while exploring or buy when resting your gear in Vestal. Heavy weapons like Wheels may seem too big for your small body at first, but Aegis can wield them gracefully and to devastating effect.
Each of these weapons has special moves that offer even more playstyle possibilities. Also keep in mind that Aegis can switch between two weapons quickly at any time and also use the tool in combat. This allows for brutal combos.
As you progress, these weapons become more powerful as you upgrade them. These improvements will certainly come in handy in your quests, especially against Titans, the most dangerous enemies you’ll face.
To defeat the Titans, you must learn their patterns, find the right time to attack, and understand how they fight. It hits so hard that it may take several tries. This means that each hit can be fatal. But don’t worry. The tools at his disposal and the way he masters his Aegis skills make all the difference.
We wanted all boss fights to be epic and give a sense of accomplishment when you finally beat them.
I can’t wait to discover your first impressions, the Titans you found most challenging, your favorite playstyles, your favorite areas of Paris, and more. We hope you enjoy the game as much as we enjoyed making it. And with Steelrising’s release just around the corner, we won’t have to wait long. Long live the revolution!
Steelrising comes to PS5 on September 8th.
