Users wrote

Nine Sols is a parry-focused 2D metroidvania that many players find highly rewarding once the timing clicks. The combat, especially boss fights, is repeatedly praised for its precision, flow, and satisfaction after learning patterns. The art, music, and Taoist-inspired storytelling are also frequently highlighted as standout elements. The game’s difficulty and some design choices, like navigation and lengthy dialogue, are common points of frustration, though several players appreciate the option to adjust difficulty. Overall, it’s regarded as a demanding but memorable experience with a strong narrative and style.

Last updated: 2026-03-06

Most Mentioned Advantages

• Tight parry-based combat (60 mentions) - Nine Sols centers its combat on precise timing and parries, creating a flow state when you learn the moves. The system rewards practice and makes each successful parry feel like a small victory. Boss fights become engaging duels as you learn attack patterns and counters. For players who enjoy Sekiro-style timing, this is the main draw of the game.
• Excellent boss design and satisfying final boss (58 mentions) - Boss encounters are varied and meticulously designed, with many fights offering both challenge and satisfying rhythm. The final boss and major sol bosses deliver high skill checks and memorable moments. The sense of progression comes from repeatedly mastering patterns and landing successful counterattacks. The true ending and post-boss challenges provide additional payoff for hardcore players.
• Striking art, visuals, and music (52 mentions) - Art direction blends Asian influences with cyberpunk elements, creating a distinctive taopunk world. The manga-style panels and atmospheric soundtrack complement the tense combat. Visuals and sound design are frequently cited as among the game's strongest aspects.
• Engaging story and world-building (48 mentions) - Stories and characters earn praise for depth and emotional moments amid a cryptic setting. Taoist themes and lore are woven into the world, giving context to Yi's journey. For many players, the story elevates the game beyond its tough combat.
• Accessible difficulty options (32 mentions) - Option to use Story Mode or customize difficulty to reduce damage or increase survivability. This flexibility helps players experience the core gameplay without getting completely blocked.

Most Mentioned Disadvantages

• Very hard / steep learning curve (50 mentions) - Many reviewers note the game is difficult, especially at the start, and requires precise parry timing. The learning curve can be punishing for players new to parry-based combat. Some bosses and sections demand repeated retries before progress is possible. However, the difficulty is often cited as a core part of the appeal for fans of challenging games.
• Navigation and map can be confusing (28 mentions) - Some reviewers find the map and progression disorienting, making exploration feel aimless at times. The lack of easy shortcuts early on compounds the navigation challenge. This can slow progress for players who prefer a clearer guide.
• Dialogue can be lengthy and sometimes unskippable (24 mentions) - Many reviews note a heavy amount of dialogue that can slow the pace. Some find it hard to engage with the story because the dialogue is long and not always skippable. This can detract from the gameplay experience for players who want faster progression.
• Hitboxes and balance issues in some sections (22 mentions) - Some fights suffer from hitbox irregularities and uneven balance, particularly early on. This can make certain attacks feel unfair. It can add extra frustration to already hard fights.
• Currency and progression can feel punishing (21 mentions) - Death and currency loss can feel brutal, especially early on when resources are scarce. Rewards from fights are sometimes too small compared to the risk of losing money. For some players, the combination of loss, backtracking, and punishing mistakes can make progression frustrating.

Compared Games

• Hollow Knight (45 mentions) - Many reviewers compare Nine Sols to Hollow Knight, noting shared metroidvania elements but praising Nine Sols for its combat, art, and storytelling.
• Sekiro (30 mentions) - Parry-based combat is described as Sekiro-like, with emphasis on timing and defense.
• Silksong (18 mentions) - Compared with Silksong, some reviewers say Nine Sols excels in combat and storytelling, while others view it as a different experience.