Sifu

Sifu, the newest game from Paris-based developer Sloclap, is a roguelike with a unique twist. It is a love letter to Chinese martial arts movies that also draws criticisms for being culturally appropriative.

-- As reviewed by The Verge
Sifu 1

Product details

  • On the path of vengeance: The hunt for enemies will take you through hidden corners of the city, from gang-ridden suburbs to cold hallways of corporate towers; You’ve got one day, and countless enemies; For every mistake, time will be the price to pay
  • Adaptation is the way: Careful positioning and clever use of the environment are key to survival; Use everything at your disposal: throwable objects, makeshift weapons, windows, ledges... The odds are stacked against you, and you’ll be offered no mercy
  • Training never ends: Kung Fu is mastery through practice, a path for both the body and the mind; Learn from your errors, unlock unique skills, and find the strength within yourself to master the devastating techniques of Pak-Mei Kung-Fu
  • All the fights have been choregraphed by a real Kung Fu master
  • A unique graphic style and a game filled with epic levels and unforgettable backgrounds

PROS

+ Incredibly rewarding combat
+ Clever dying-and-aging progression system
+ Absorbing visual presentation

CONS

- Camera doesn't always keep up with the fast action
- Roguelike elements won't be for everyone

Expert reviews and ratings

By The Verge on February 07, 2022
Sifu, the newest game from Paris-based developer Sloclap, is a roguelike with a unique twist. It is a love letter to Chinese martial arts movies that also draws criticisms for being culturally appropriative.
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By Tom's Guide on February 10, 2022
Sifu's incredibly satisfying combat can make you feel like an action-movie hero, but its challenging encounters and roguelike progression could leave less dedicated players feeling defeated.
80
By IGN on February 06, 2022
Sifu demands a lot from you, and that’s a sword that cuts both ways. Its combat is impeccable, with incredibly smooth and impactful animation, deep fighting mechanics, and challenging enemies that really make you fight tooth and nail for every victory. At the same time, the repetition that comes from replaying levels so you can essentially set a high score and give yourself a chance at completing the rest of the short campaign with what’s effectively one persistent pool of lives can lead to some really frustrating moments with no clear path through outside of just trying and trying until you get better at it, which can be frustrating. On the other side of that vicious learning curve, though, is one of the most impressive beat-em-ups I’ve ever played, with excellent level design, fantastic music, and – once it was all over – a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that few other video games can provide.
90