Bloodless for the Nintendo Switch offers a unique action-adventure experience centering on counter-based combat. The story follows Tomoe, a ronin returning to her homeland to confront her former master, Shogun Akechi. Armed only with her fists, Tomoe’s mission is to disarm enemies without taking lives.
Kind of like Batman. The narrative in Bloodless centers around redemption and non-violence. Tomoe’s journey is about confronting her past and mastering her skills.
One of the things I enjoyed about Bloodless was the visual design. The game is done in classic pixel style, kind of similar to Undertale. This style is intriguingly popular these days, and it works very well for Bloodless, too. The theme is very “traditional Japan,” and I loved it. Each area in Bakugawa has its own distinct environment and aesthetic. However, the color schemes can make fast-paced combat a bit harder to follow, as the limited colors can sometimes obscure the action.
When it comes to the combat system, you’ll want to focus on precision and timing. Players must dash through enemy attacks and counter at just the right time to disarm their foes. You will notice the prompts on the screen when you are able to counter an attack. The mechanics are satisfying, especially when you successfully chain counter moves together.
As you progress, enemy attack patterns change and become more difficult, keeping the challenge fresh. However, the stamina system can be annoying at times. Luckily, you can get upgrades as you progress, extending your stamina meter and the attack/dodge command. There is also a skill tree and accessories you can use or equip to become stronger.
Bloodless challenges traditional action games. Its focus on non-lethal combat, combined with its distinct art style, makes it a memorable addition to the Nintendo Switch library. While there are minor issues with backtracking and story pacing, it’s one of the more entertaining action games that I’ve played recently.
Checkout Bloodless, available now on the Nintendo Switch eShop.
