Absolum is not just the best demo on Steam, it's one of my favorite experiences from 2025

Absolum delivers thrilling roguelike beat-'em-up action with rich replayability and strategic depth on Steam in 2025.

: Absolum, a standout in Steam Next Fest as a roguelike beat-'em-up, captivates players with its medieval fantasy world, Talamh, where magic is outlawed. Developed by Guard Crush, known for Streets of Rage 4, Absolum offers replayability akin to Hades with A-or-B decisions and secret rooms enhancing the journey. The combat system, described as impactful and percussive, features elemental crystals and Inspirations that unlock new moves and upgrades. With an original world and compelling combat, the game is recognized for its immersive gameplay, designed to overwhelm bosses and engage players fully.

Absolum, a highlight of the Steam Next Fest, is a roguelike beat-'em-up set in the enchanting medieval fantasy realm of Talamh, where magic is outlawed, and mages are persecuted by the villain Azra the Conqueror. Developed by Guard Crush, the creators of Streets of Rage 4, Absolum stands out with its original world crafted from scratch, offering players a rich and engaging gaming experience. The game features a full cast of three playable characters - Karl the dwarf, Galandra with her heavy sword, and Cider known for nimble aerial combos. With online co-op capabilities, the demo showcases the seamless integration of roguelike elements and classic beat-'em-up gameplay, making each playthrough unique with variable enemy configurations and unlockable secret rooms.

Mechanics are built around decision-making akin to Hades, with players encountering A-or-B choices between Rituals that upgrade abilities with elemental enhancements. Among these upgrades are fire damage over time, static electricity, and tornadoes that juggle enemies. Inspirations, higher-tier upgrades awarded after boss fights, grant entirely new capabilities such as a dive kick for Galandra or wall-clinging abilities. The comprehensive upgrade system also includes permanent enhancements purchased with currency, offering players the chance to boost baseline health, situational damage, and more. The game's ability to dynamically alter the world through multiple playthroughs fosters a sense of progress and exploration across its expansive map.

image

Absolum’s combat is praised for its percussiveness and impact, brought to life with a streamlined two-button setup for light and heavy attacks, plus a dodge function. Jordi Asensio, head of game design at Guard Crush, explained their intentional decision to simplify inputs compared to Streets of Rage 4, creating a more approachable yet deep fighting system. The detailed collision logic allows players to align hits efficiently, each interaction feeling individually significant thanks to sound design and visual feedback like freeze frames. This less technical approach draws players into intense battles where mashing brings genuine strategy and purpose, successfully fulfilling the vision of a game that learns from its predecessor's strengths while carving its niche.

Music elevates the game further, with medieval-themed soundtracks shifting dynamically during battles, especially heavy metal riffs during mining operation boss fights. The game's design invites players to fully engage with its world, fostering teamwork in co-op gameplay as challenges grow with each level. Absolum's ability to surprise players with new experiences on subsequent playthroughs, including ridable beasts and strategically placed enemies, adds depth to its replayability. Testimonies from players highlight the ability of Absolum to immerse and captivate, with gameplay that strikes a balance between nostalgic beat-'em-up appeal and modern roguelike innovation.

image

The developer's commitment to eliciting impact through visuals and sound is evident, with actions in-game consistently resonating through design choices that amplify each action. As Evan Lahti, author and strategic director at PC Gamer, shared, "Each hit is registered clearly by the sound design, making them individually felt," and this attention to tactile feedback ensures players remain engrossed throughout their adventure. Guard Crush’s dedicated understanding of the genre manifests in this ambitious project that seamlessly integrates timeless gaming elements with cutting-edge design trends, shaping Absolum into one of the most favorable gaming experiences of 2025.

Sources: PC Gamer, Steam, Reddit, Pinterest

PC GamingGame DevelopmentEntertainment