Ultros – Review

Ultros, a psychedelic Metroidvania released in 2024 by Hadoque, isn’t your average side-scroller. It’s a descent into a deliriously vibrant, twisted, and oddly beautiful world called The Sarcophagus. From the moment you awaken, thrown into this decaying space station teeming with alien life, you’re hooked by the game’s unconventional charm.

A Feast for the Senses:

Ultros isn’t afraid to be loud and wild. Its visuals are a kaleidoscope of neon colors, bizarre creature designs, and warped environments that wouldn’t be out of place in a Dali painting. This aesthetic blends seamlessly with the game’s otherworldly soundtrack, a haunting symphony of electronic beats and atmospheric synth melodies that perfectly capture the unsettling beauty of The Sarcophagus.

Meat-grinding Gameplay:

Combat in Ultros is a visceral ballet of violence and consumption. You’ll chain together fluid combos to defeat grotesque enemies, devouring their fleshy remains to gain experience. This “meat-based” progression system adds a macabre layer to the gameplay, rewarding aggression while forcing you to confront the cyclical nature of life and death within The Sarcophagus.

More Than Just Combat:

While combat is undeniably satisfying, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Ultros encourages exploration, rewarding you with new abilities and upgrades hidden amidst its labyrinthine corridors. The freedom to explore and experiment with your newfound powers is exhilarating, constantly pushing you beyond your comfort zone.

A World of Mysteries:

The narrative in Ultros unfolds organically through cryptic environmental storytelling and fragmented lore scattered throughout the world. While not spoon-fed, the piecing together of the story’s fragmented puzzle is deeply engaging, leaving you yearning to uncover the secrets of The Sarcophagus and its inhabitants.

Time Loop Twist:

Ultros throws in a unique twist with its time loop mechanic. Upon defeating certain bosses, you’re sent back to the beginning, losing your collected upgrades. This might seem frustrating at first, but it encourages strategic thinking and mastery of your combat skills to progress further each time.

Not for the Faint of Heart:

Ultros is an acquired taste. Its bizarre visuals, unconventional mechanics, and cryptic narrative might not resonate with everyone. The game also suffers from minor technical hiccups like occasional frame drops and limited fast travel options.

A Trip Worth Taking:

Despite its quirks, Ultros offers a unique and unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for a visually stunning, gameplay-driven adventure that isn’t afraid to push boundaries, Ultros is a trip worth taking. Just be prepared to embrace its delirium.

Remember, this is just a general overview based on available information. For a truly in-depth review, I’d need more specific details about your preferences and the aspects you’d like explored further.