PGC NEWS

Kung Fu’s widespread popularity is undeniable, thanks in large part to its prominent role in popular culture, including novels, comics, and films. Sloclap, a Paris-based independent game studio, has channeled their passion for this martial art into their second game, Sifu. Inspired by iconic action films, Sifu promises a thrilling martial arts experience. Does it deliver? Let’s delve into this immersive world of revenge and Kung Fu mastery.

A Tale of Revenge and Rebirth

Sifu – Training

Eight years prior to the game’s start, a tragic betrayal shatters the protagonist’s life. Their family’s martial arts school is attacked by a former student and four accomplices, resulting in the death of their father and the young protagonist. Miraculously, a magical pendant revives the protagonist, granting them a chance at vengeance. Eight years later, now a skilled martial artist trained in Bak Mei Kung Fu, the protagonist embarks on a quest for revenge, aided by the mysterious pendant.

The Thrill of Kung Fu Mastery

Sifu – Combat

Sifu captures the exhilarating feeling of mastering Kung Fu. Through a fluid combination of mouse clicks and movement keys (on PC), players execute impressive combos, each with unique properties like knockbacks or trips. The combat system is deeply satisfying, especially when chaining attacks to stun enemies, leaving them vulnerable to devastating finishing blows.

Sifu – Focus Attack

Beyond standard attacks, Sifu introduces “Focus Attacks.” These special moves, activated when a focus meter is full, create openings for high-damage combos. While not as visually flamboyant as “Heat” or “Ex Attacks” in the Yakuza or Judgment series, Focus Attacks add a tactical layer to the combat. Combined with a diverse upgrade system for new moves, Sifu provides an engaging and rewarding Kung Fu experience.

A World of Skilled Opponents

Sifu – Blocking

In Sifu‘s world, everyone seems to be a martial artist. From weapon-wielding thugs to highly skilled fighters, every encounter is a potential challenge. Unlike other beat ’em ups where players can spam powerful attacks, Sifu demands precision and strategy. Rushing into a group of enemies will quickly lead to being surrounded and overwhelmed. Multiple attackers will strike simultaneously, testing your defensive skills.

Sifu – Environment

Sifu‘s blocking system is tied to a structure meter that fills up when hit. Since enemies hit hard, this meter can deplete quickly, leaving you vulnerable to stuns and devastating attacks. Mastering dodging, parrying, and counter-attacking is crucial for survival. Adding to the challenge, enemies can also block and parry, preventing players from relying solely on offense.

The Price of Death and the Path to Mastery

Sifu – Age Progression

The magical pendant, while granting resurrection, comes with a price – aging. Each death increases the protagonist’s age, starting at 20. Consecutive deaths accelerate the aging process, while defeating mini-bosses slows it down. Death also provides an opportunity to learn, allowing players to purchase new skills using experience points, encouraging adaptation and strategic skill development.

Sifu – Pendant

The pendant has five coins, representing age milestones: 30, 40, 50, 60, and 70. Reaching each milestone breaks a coin, shortening the health bar but increasing attack power. Age also locks certain skills if not purchased earlier, forcing players to adapt their playstyle. While relatively short with five levels, Sifu‘s high difficulty and unique aging mechanic provide a compelling and replayable experience.

Cinematic Environments and Minor Frustrations

Sifu – Locations

Sifu‘s environments are visually stunning, drawing inspiration from iconic action films. From a Fist of Fury-inspired martial arts school to a John Wick-esque nightclub, each location is meticulously crafted and adds to the cinematic feel of the game. Disabling the HUD enhances this immersive experience, making players feel like they’re starring in their own martial arts movie.

Sifu – Enemy Variety

Despite its strengths, Sifu has some minor flaws. A puzzling mechanic sees certain enemies suddenly power up after a finishing move is attempted. The auto-save system can also be problematic, saving progress but retaining the age at the time of exiting the game. Additionally, permanently unlocking skills requires five times the initial cost, potentially leading to repetitive grinding. Finally, the limited training mode restricts practice against various enemy types.

Conclusion

Sifu – Final Fight

Sifu delivers a unique and challenging martial arts experience. Its demanding combat, intriguing aging mechanic, and stylish presentation make it a must-play for Kung Fu enthusiasts and action game fans. While minor frustrations exist, they don’t detract significantly from the overall thrilling and rewarding journey to mastery.