Review of Blade Chimera for Nintendo Switch

From the talented team at PLAYISM, Team Ladybug, and WSS Playground comes a Metroidvania gem that’s a must-play on the Nintendo Switch—this is Blade Chimera. In this captivating experience, you’ll dive into the world of Shin, a demon hunter grappling with memory loss. Interestingly, Shin’s journey intertwines with Lux—a demon who can transform into a sword. It’s a unique partnership considering Shin’s profession! Lux isn’t just for show; she’s your multifaceted ally who can fend off enemies, serve as a shield, and even transform into a platform, helping you explore the sprawling cyberpunk landscape of Osaka.

When you fire up Blade Chimera, you’ll find yourself instantly drawn into the action. Moving Shin through the enticing world is smooth with the left analog stick or D-Pad, while the A button lets you jump, and B is your go-to for attacks. Utilize the Y button for your secondary attack, which varies with your current item. Dodging, a crucial aspect of survival, is mapped to the L button. Activating your special skills, which consume MP, is done with the R button.

Lux adds another layer of strategy to the gameplay. Assigned to the X button, she can unleash attacks, morph into shields, or turn into large obstacles for protection—provided there’s a past object for her to transform into. Additionally, Lux is handy for platforming, capable of sticking to walls to provide you with necessary climbing assistance. Conquering foes with her help not only clears your path but also replenishes some much-needed HP.

As you face and overcome the demon adversaries and intimidating bosses, you’re rewarded with experience points. Leveling up boosts your attack power, enhancing your defenses and making enemy hits less dangerous. Exploring thoroughly is advantageous, as you can discover items that increase your HP and MP capacities.

While battling through the levels, you’ll gather currency from fallen enemies. This money becomes crucial for acquiring all sorts of helpful items: from a lifesaving elixir that restores HP to an energy drink fur boosting MP. Handy items like Miracle Mixes to cure ailments, powerful weapons, and equipment upgrades are within reach, and you can even sell unwanted items to pad your wallet. For those eager to earn extra cash or simply seek more challenges, checking in for side missions at HQ is always a rewarding option.

Every level up grants Skill Points crucial for unlocking essential abilities that expand your reach in the game. Through the ‘+’ menu, you can access and invest in skills such as the Air Dash—perfect for dodging and clearing longer gaps—or eventually gain the ever-helpful double jump, combining it with other skills for maximum traversal capabilities.

Blade Chimera doesn’t just deliver a standard Metroidvania experience—it’s an enthralling dive into a vibrant cyberpunk narrative where you take on the intriguing role of Shin. The mysterious journey through memory loss and partnership with Lux, a shapeshifting demon sword, adds depth to your exploration across a beautifully reimagined Osaka. Overcoming adversaries earns you experience and resources vital for progression, while the thrill of discovering powerful items from defeated enemies keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting.

For those eager to experience this adventure on the Nintendo Switch, Blade Chimera is available for $19.99. It’s a solid choice for any Metroidvania enthusiast looking to embark on a captivating journey.