Solideo is proud to officially announce the development of Sick Samurai, a blindingly fast and bloody action game based on instant-death combat, with gameplay in the same vein as Hotline Miami, and an aesthetic that's nostalgic for classics like Samurai Champloo and Cowboy Bebop. It features an original lofi soundtrack infused with elements of hip hop, jazz, soul, funk, and more, along with hand-drawn retro anime-style art.
The game features hand-crafted levels, each of which offers multiple paths and strategies, along with various upgrade and item choices that players will make as they progress. Players can restart levels instantly upon death, and repetition is necessary for mastering the game’s combat, which largely revolves around a blazing fast dash-and-slash attack mechanic. Precision, speed, reflexes, and planning will all be put to the test.
Sick Samurai takes place on the fictional island of Furikyu, which features a unique culture that blends Edo period Japan with various 20th century urban American cultures. Players will be in control of a young man who dreams of becoming the greatest fighter on the island. He seeks out Genyu, an infamous ex-samurai, in the hopes of learning from him. Genyu agrees to take him under his wing, and the two set out on a journey to challenge the four powerful samurai who run the island.
The game will also feature fully voice-acted dialogue with branching choices that will shape the player’s relationships with the game’s characters.
Sick Samurai is slated for release on PC via Steam in Q4 2025.