Absolum Review
Guard Crush Games and Supamonks, with publisher Dotemu, have redefined the beat ‘em up with Absolum.
Absolum. Credit: Guard Crush Games / Supamonks / Dotemu
We’ve come a long way from the days of simple arcade beat ‘em ups designed to eat your quarters. After the excellent Streets of Rage 4, Guard Crush and their collaborators have created something that feels like an evolution for the genre. Absolum is the new gold standard.
In the fantasy world of Talamh, the Sun King Azra exploited a cataclysm to enslave wizards through his Crimson Order. The high enchantress Uchawi leads a small group of rebels wielding forbidden magic against Azra's regime. You play as one of four rebels—swordfighter Galandra, dwarf brawler Karl, rogue Cider, and frog wizard Brome—each with unique skill sets, playstyles, and personalities. I loved the game’s characters and fantasy world.
Absolum. Credit: Guard Crush Games / Supamonks / Dotemu
The gameplay is perfect beat 'em up design, with evolved mechanics that feel strategic, fair, and satisfying thanks to the quick and responsive controls. Brawling has added complexity thanks to options beyond the standard light and heavy combos and throws. Dodges evade, and dashing into an attack can deflect and stun enemies. Timing a heavy attack against an enemy strike triggers a clash counter. Mixing things up and getting into a groove triggers a delicious flow of dopamine, making the game addictive. Combat is smooth, heavy, and crunchy.
Each of the four playable characters is completely different, adding even more depth with their varied playstyles. The roguelite structure adds incredible depth through an evolving map, unlockable specials, and skill tree upgrades. During a run, you can craft and evolve your build with the random upgrades in a way similar to the end-of-room rewards you find in games like Hades. The variety makes each run feel fresh, and finding the right synergies feels rewarding.
Absolum. Credit: Guard Crush Games / Supamonks / Dotemu
Supamonks handled the art direction; the visuals are highly polished, frankly stunning. The style is reminiscent of Mike Mignola’s work, with deep black shadows, sharp linework, and flat colors. I’m a sucker for dark fantasy, but even without that personal bias, Absolum is next-level. The game begs to be turned into an animated series.
Absolum isn't just another beat 'em up. It’s a demonstration of how to innovate in a genre and make it feel fresh. The combat depth, roguelite progression, stunning art, and compelling world combine to create an incredible experience that sets the new standard by which future games in the genre will be judged. Guard Crush Games and Supamonks absolutely crushed it.
Absolum is available now on Steam, PlayStation 4/5, and Nintendo Switch.
Overall Score: 10/10
Played on: Steam Deck
