Katana ZERO

 PC
User Score
8.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 720 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 641 out of 720
  2. Mixed: 61 out of 720
  3. Negative: 18 out of 720

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  1. DragoDorits
    Dec 11, 2021
    10
    This game is excellent in every way. Truly, the only slip-up is how short the game is, clocking in at around 4ish hours (took me much longer to beat it on hard mode), but every minute is enjoyable. Every mission is a hit; each one has a different feel, whether that be from the music, dialogue options, and new mechanics. The controls are natural and perfect for the gameplay. The slow-motionThis game is excellent in every way. Truly, the only slip-up is how short the game is, clocking in at around 4ish hours (took me much longer to beat it on hard mode), but every minute is enjoyable. Every mission is a hit; each one has a different feel, whether that be from the music, dialogue options, and new mechanics. The controls are natural and perfect for the gameplay. The slow-motion mechanic is well-implemented, and definitely not a use-to-win button. I went in looking for a game with quick, flashy levels, but I was surprised by how engaging the story was. The levels were very tense and fun, but the implied background of every character and the history of the world also kept me going throughout the missions. My only other complaint is really a part of the first one; really fun mechanics are often used for only one mission! The best levels introduce the new mechanics, but they are gone as soon as they were introduced. However, this oversight can be ignored since the game is perfect in every other way.… Expand
  2. PASSIVior
    Jun 22, 2020
    10
    Великолепная игра с великолепным саундреком в стиле "synthwave". Потрясающий, продуманный сюжет который однозначно будет дополнен в следующих частях или DLC. Интересная система боя, где вы имеете лишь одну жизнь как и ваши противники. Игра короткая, но, как по мне, это является плюсом. Из-за этого сюжет воспринимается на лету, и при этом требует детального разбора, ибо многие детали неВеликолепная игра с великолепным саундреком в стиле "synthwave". Потрясающий, продуманный сюжет который однозначно будет дополнен в следующих частях или DLC. Интересная система боя, где вы имеете лишь одну жизнь как и ваши противники. Игра короткая, но, как по мне, это является плюсом. Из-за этого сюжет воспринимается на лету, и при этом требует детального разбора, ибо многие детали не заметны на первый взгляд. Так-же я понимаю, как трудно добавлять разнообразие в подобные игры. В отличии от "Hotline Miami" каждый уровень уникален, имеет свои механики. Игра не ощущается затянутой из-за этого, за что стоит поблагодарить разработчика, что вложил в игру свою душу.… Expand
  3. Keitan
    Nov 29, 2020
    10
    Katana Zero es un juego Indie que demuestra una vez mas el potencial del que a veces las grandes empresas carecen a la hora de hacer un videojuego.

    El diseño de niveles de este juego es exquisito, de principio a fin, puedo decir con seguridad que nunca te perderas jugando a Katana Zero, ya que ofrece al jugador varias formas de lograr su cometido, el jugador tiene control total sobre    Katana Zero es un juego Indie que demuestra una vez mas el potencial del que a veces las grandes empresas carecen a la hora de hacer un videojuego.

    El diseño de niveles de este juego es exquisito, de principio a fin, puedo decir con seguridad que nunca te perderas jugando a Katana Zero, ya que ofrece al jugador varias formas de lograr su cometido, el jugador tiene control total sobre como completa cada fase de cada capitulo al que juega y eso en la practica hace de Katana Zero un juego muy disfrutable, puedes hacer uso de la "Camara lenta" o puedes ser un frenetico asesino con reflejos de gato y eso es algo que se agradece.

    El Soundtrack es uno de los mejores que he escuchado en los ultimos tiempos, son Tracks que puedes escuchar una y otra vez y seguiras disfrutando a lo largo del juego, la forma tan perfecta en la que encaja con los diferentes momentos del juego no tiene nombre.
    En cuanto a historia en un principio es bastante confuso (Tambien al final, no mentire) pero tiene una de las mas originales e intrigantes que he tenido la dicha de experimentar en los ultimos tiempos, en general Katana Zero es un juego que si tienes la oportunidad de comprar no debes de dudar 2 veces en hacerlo, no te arrepentiras, espero con ansias el DLC para continuar esta emocionante historia.    … Expand
  4. AllanWake
    Jul 28, 2021
    9
    Excelente em todos os aspectos técnicos, gameplay muito divertida e bem variada com bastante rejogabilidade. A história é muito boa, porém confusa e acho que poderia ter algumas fases a mais, tirando isso é um excelente jogo que roda em qualquer máquina e com um preço muito acessível.
  5. Anima2z
    Jun 28, 2020
    10
    this game is dope! the gameplay is so tense and fun, the story so nice and cyberpunkish love it, didn{t expected such great gameplay and music
  6. Otakuch
    Aug 13, 2020
    8
    It gave me really good experience, but it felt uncompleted yet. Someone told me that dlc will be out. so we have to wait :D
  7. DoDoBlon
    Sep 27, 2021
    5
    After getting all achievements I've noticed sooo many gameplay flows (especially after speedrun on gold medals). I noticed some of the flows during main story but they were so much pain in the ass in the speedrun mode.
    (For example some of them: there is cooldown between hits so you can't deflect multiple bullets if they are close to one another so the strategy is to roll behind the backs    After getting all achievements I've noticed sooo many gameplay flows (especially after speedrun on gold medals). I noticed some of the flows during main story but they were so much pain in the ass in the speedrun mode.
    (For example some of them: there is cooldown between hits so you can't deflect multiple bullets if they are close to one another so the strategy is to roll behind the backs and only than slash; then, bad gameplay design of enemies. Enemies in the games should expose combat system but here almost every enemy 'locks-up' some abilities of yours. So for example with him you can't do that with them you can't do some other stuff and so on (especially enemies on hard mode); And the last major one. There is roll in the game for dodging but should be dash. Because if you jump you can't roll so it means you can't dodge so you just die (and most of the times these 'jumps' after sword's hits so you turn up in mid-air (I know I can push down button but it takes some time anyway))).
    Also dialogues are not so good written (developers have no experience in that so it's understandable).
    Game has no ending just to be continued.
    Music would be ok if hotline miami wasn't release almost 9 years ago where every track is 10 times better.
    Had so many expectations. But after completing the game I was disappointed. And after biting all achievements I hate the game.
    For people liking challenge my piece of advice is to play Furi. One of the best combat systems in the history. Had soo much fun getting platinum trophy on ps4.    … Expand
  8. gamingmachinery
    Jul 14, 2020
    9
    No review present. No review present. No review present. No review present.
  9. schatwal96
    Jan 25, 2021
    9
    This game is a masterclass in combat. Imagine Celeste, but the fluidity of its platforming with combat. everything is perfect in this game, except some small mechanics, and throwing AI. The soundtrack is practically flawless and is so fun to listen to. There isn't much enemy variety, but it's an indie game, and it doesn't affect the gameplay. A must-play for anyone wanting a hard, but fastThis game is a masterclass in combat. Imagine Celeste, but the fluidity of its platforming with combat. everything is perfect in this game, except some small mechanics, and throwing AI. The soundtrack is practically flawless and is so fun to listen to. There isn't much enemy variety, but it's an indie game, and it doesn't affect the gameplay. A must-play for anyone wanting a hard, but fast game, and perfect for people who like celeste, ghost runner, and souls likes.… Expand
  10. WALISOFT
    Aug 4, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Twenty-eight years in that godforsaken jungle.

    Killing soldiers wasn't so bad. I hardly remember it.

    But burning those villages, watching those naked peasants cry...

    I see it every day. It's not PTSD, it's the drug.

    It's only been a week, but it feels like a year.

    Every word is getting longer, the mosquitoes are getting louder.

    When the drug runs out, time stops, and you're stuck in the jungle forever.

    It's... grains of sand in a shrinking hour glass.

    I know what comes next. I need to ask you a favor.

    -684 DAYS REMAIN    … Expand
  11. VadersFist
    Jul 25, 2020
    9
    Великолепный ураганный боевик, в котором нет ничего лишнего, а сама игра заканчивается до того, как успеет надоесть.

    Игра получилась хороша во всём. Здесь есть и интригующий сюжет (не уровня Оскара, но следить не скучно), и отточенная игровая механика, и отличный визуал, наполненный деталями. Обязательно сыграйте, вы должны увидеть сами пиксель-артовые анимации, поучаствовать в    Великолепный ураганный боевик, в котором нет ничего лишнего, а сама игра заканчивается до того, как успеет надоесть.

    Игра получилась хороша во всём. Здесь есть и интригующий сюжет (не уровня Оскара, но следить не скучно), и отточенная игровая механика, и отличный визуал, наполненный деталями.

    Обязательно сыграйте, вы должны увидеть сами пиксель-артовые анимации, поучаствовать в интересных диалогах и ощутить тактильное удовольствие от управление персонажем и его оружием.    … Expand
  12. Javierquintal
    Aug 1, 2020
    9
    El juego esta hermoso cuyo giro de tuerca no se veia venir pero a su vez no sale dw la nada, a pesar de ser muy corto es muy bueno y ademas entretenido, espero con todo mi ser la conclusion de este buen juego.
  13. ItsNeku
    Aug 6, 2020
    10
    Out of any game I’ve ever played, this game is undoubtedly the best.
    Hands down nothing even comes close. I've spent the better part of my life playing video games as my main hobby and I’ve never witnessed such sheer beauty in any game ever. It’s got it all… the impeccable story, the addictingly fun gameplay, the amazing soundtrack, and the beautiful art style. I’ve played this game a    Out of any game I’ve ever played, this game is undoubtedly the best.
    Hands down nothing even comes close. I've spent the better part of my life playing video games as my main hobby and I’ve never witnessed such sheer beauty in any game ever. It’s got it all… the impeccable story, the addictingly fun gameplay, the amazing soundtrack, and the beautiful art style. I’ve played this game a total of three times now (all on my Nintendo Switch) and every time the story gives me pins and needles. I’ll break this down into four sections for you.

    The Story
    This is the best story in any game i've ever played. In the aspect of character development… I don't even know how to describe it. There is so little information there for some of the characters and yet you feel as if you know them personally. Since I was a child, I have loved the element of mystery in stories and the development of some of the characters scratches this itch so well, it's unbelievable. The important scenes have such gravity to them based on what you know before they make my whole body get pins and needles like no other game I've played. I will admit that some manly tears were shed towards the end of the game, and for me, this kind of thing is insanely rare for games or movies.

    The Gameplay
    This game's gameplay is so much fun it's nuts. Jumping from platform to platform, dodge rolling, and slowing down time really makes you feel like you are the main character. A lot of games have this story trait where you are special relative to the enemies and I've never seen it accomplished like in this game. Normally the execution of this in games is done in a way which feels gimmicky to me, like a “yeah right I just did that” kind of reaction. On the other hand, Katana Zero nails it like I’ve never seen before. Toggling between normal speed and bullet time has never felt this natural or realistic before.

    The Soundtrack
    Katana Zero’s soundtrack matches the rest of the game like nothing else. This matched with the story leaves a truly visceral and emotional bond with the game and it’s characters. Normally a game’s soundtrack is pretty similar in style all the way through… not with this. I never would have thought it would have been possible to go from hardcore EDM to classical music in the switch of a scene, but this game showed me it’s possible. This game nails, and I mean seriously nails the genre of ambience. My favorite scene in the game is literally made by how beautiful the music is. I really love high quality music and you can buy the full soundtrack for $10.68 in FLAC format which is a steal.

    The Art Style
    This game’s aesthetic is truly superb. I really love Vaporwave, Outrun, and Cyberpunk… I have no clue where to fit this game, but I know it's a mix. I've never seen a game truly encapsulate and perfect the 80s aesthetic like this before. Some of the scenes of this game are so beautiful, it's hard to explain it with words.

    A Strong 10/10    … Expand
  14. Hoop_
    Nov 3, 2020
    10
    Gostei muito da arte do jogo, e principalmente das músicas, a satisfação de matar os inimigos ao som destas músicas é grande
  15. Aaro_n
    Jun 27, 2021
    10
    Thuis is the one of the best, 2D Action platformer.
    Thuis game was nog Easy, bit that make This game beter
  16. 3301
    Aug 19, 2020
    8
    Just feels so good to play, everything is top.
    8/10 just a bit short, waiting for the dlc.
  17. Marc0707
    Jan 3, 2023
    10
    Jogo lindo, com otimo final(creio que hajam outros além dos que consegui). Apenas belo, uma obra de arte
  18. ErayTellezi
    Nov 29, 2020
    8
    Katana Zero oynadığım en keyifli bağımsız oyunlardan oldu. Hız ön planda. Herkese tek atıp, tek yiyorsun. Ölünce bölümü tekrar tekrar hızlı hızlı oynuyorsun. Aksiyonu basit. Zorluğu dengeli. Zamanı yavaşlatma yeteneği, oyuna stratejik derinlik katmış. Hikaye sunumu başarılı ancak hikayesi biraz yarım kalmış. Oyundan diyalog seçimi beklemiyordum, bu açıdan sürpriz oldu. KarakterimizinKatana Zero oynadığım en keyifli bağımsız oyunlardan oldu. Hız ön planda. Herkese tek atıp, tek yiyorsun. Ölünce bölümü tekrar tekrar hızlı hızlı oynuyorsun. Aksiyonu basit. Zorluğu dengeli. Zamanı yavaşlatma yeteneği, oyuna stratejik derinlik katmış. Hikaye sunumu başarılı ancak hikayesi biraz yarım kalmış. Oyundan diyalog seçimi beklemiyordum, bu açıdan sürpriz oldu. Karakterimizin psikolojik sorunları nedeniyle gördüğü rüyalar, küçük kız ve psikiyatrist ile olan muhabbetler oyunu ilginç ve boş aksiyondan uzak kılıyor. Tekno müzikleri oyunun aksiyonuna uygun. Oynanış süresi yaklaşık 5 saat.… Expand
  19. NOMBRE
    Sep 25, 2020
    8
    Un juego de acción y pura adrenalina. Un gran juego aunque bastante corto te durara unas 7 horas de juego más o menos, aun así es muy disfrutable.
  20. prakx9
    Nov 26, 2020
    8
    Juego muy entretenido, bastante rejugable y un apartado gráfico bonito .Quizás se le echaría en falta más cosas que variaran el gameplay.
  21. BukinPK
    Feb 21, 2022
    10
    Отличная игра! Сюжет, наратив, атмосфера, саунд -- всё на уровне!
    Жаль из ps store её выпилили и жаль что сиквела до сих пор нет. Жду.
  22. Ghostee
    Nov 14, 2020
    5
    An ok art-style and fine controls, but oh my lord is the difficulty spike the worst thing ever. By the third stage it is so hard to even open doors because woopsie woo you have summoned 19 people all with impossible to dodge attacks, you can try to block it but that is not happening. With a sentries, katana wielders, heavies and gun wielders. It is so hard to move. Also the katana swingAn ok art-style and fine controls, but oh my lord is the difficulty spike the worst thing ever. By the third stage it is so hard to even open doors because woopsie woo you have summoned 19 people all with impossible to dodge attacks, you can try to block it but that is not happening. With a sentries, katana wielders, heavies and gun wielders. It is so hard to move. Also the katana swing animation is so long when you are trying to block a bullet rain of stuff. The game also gets really repetitive and is annoying at most times with mechanics flying out of the depths of hell whenever you breathe. I really want to like this game but I just cant. There are WAYY too many problems, it outmatches the goods, like the graphics and feel.

    Graphics- 9
    Controls- 5
    Responsiveness- 7
    Gameplay- 2
    Difficulty (1=Easy, 10=Impossible)- 9    … Expand
  23. Axelle_1
    Jan 10, 2022
    10
    Прошла всего неделя, но мне кажется, будто это был год.

    .
  24. Emanukzgz
    Nov 24, 2020
    10
    Spanish: Me parece increible como un juego indie de poco presupuesto y pixel art puede ser tan espectacular jugaglemente y narrativamente. La acción te engancha y tiene mecanicas muy divertidas y bosses que aun sindo pocos mecanicamente son de lo mejor que he jugado nunca. Y la narrativa me parece incluso mejor que la jugabilidad que es magnifica. Lo que en un principio pensaba que seríaSpanish: Me parece increible como un juego indie de poco presupuesto y pixel art puede ser tan espectacular jugaglemente y narrativamente. La acción te engancha y tiene mecanicas muy divertidas y bosses que aun sindo pocos mecanicamente son de lo mejor que he jugado nunca. Y la narrativa me parece incluso mejor que la jugabilidad que es magnifica. Lo que en un principio pensaba que sería una pausas aburridas entre la acción acabo siendo lo mejor `para mi de principo a fin.
    English:I find it incredible how a low-budget indie pixel art game can be so spectacularly playable and narratively. The action hooks you and has very fun mechanics and bosses that even few are mechanically the best I've ever played. And the narrative seems even better than the gameplay, which is magnificent. What I initially thought would be boring breaks between the action turned out to be the best for me from start to finish.    … Expand
  25. eraybeycik
    Dec 2, 2020
    8
    Bir başka harika bağımsız oyunlardan birisidir Katana Zero. Harika işte :))
  26. Rubbish
    Jun 26, 2021
    9
    Fast paced action with satisfying combat as well as fun dialoge and a unique and interesting story. Every time i thought the game play might be starting to get repititive they would introduce a new element or level type that kept it fun and challenging. Its not super long and/or big but the price is fair for the quality especially on sale.
    The music and art are also both fantastic.
  27. n64fog
    Feb 8, 2021
    8
    Satisfying Gameplay. Excellent Soundtrack. Vibrant Pixel Graphics. Engaging plot. My first playthrough took a little over seven hours, which seems like the right amount of game for the price. The arcade-style combat feels fluid, brutal and challenging. Dialogue is intelligent and humorously written and the player is presented with a decent range of responses to choose from. My onlySatisfying Gameplay. Excellent Soundtrack. Vibrant Pixel Graphics. Engaging plot. My first playthrough took a little over seven hours, which seems like the right amount of game for the price. The arcade-style combat feels fluid, brutal and challenging. Dialogue is intelligent and humorously written and the player is presented with a decent range of responses to choose from. My only criticism is that I would have liked to see some options for player character customisation, e.g. choice of gender, hair colour, robe colour, etc. All in all, Katana ZERO is a work of art and a very enjoyable game. I'm looking forward to playing again soon.… Expand
  28. neckezz
    Aug 16, 2021
    8
    Beautiful pixel art, good modern music, simple but yet fun and challenging levels with a good story. The only problem is that this game is too short, so if I were you, I will wait for an update of the story or wait for the sale.
  29. vlady_lives
    Mar 30, 2022
    7
    A very decent little game. Fluid and fast, not to mention fun, gameplay with an interesting enough story and pretty fascinating premise. However, it is a bit too short, with it taking me 4 hours to fully complete it. I would say that it could benefit from a wider variety of enemies, or a wider variety of mechanics, and it does get a bit repetitive, but nonetheless it was an enjoyableA very decent little game. Fluid and fast, not to mention fun, gameplay with an interesting enough story and pretty fascinating premise. However, it is a bit too short, with it taking me 4 hours to fully complete it. I would say that it could benefit from a wider variety of enemies, or a wider variety of mechanics, and it does get a bit repetitive, but nonetheless it was an enjoyable experience, though I do not see myself ever replaying this game. However, I must say, the art is absolutely gorgeous and the music design is fantastic.… Expand
  30. IgorSneg
    Feb 2, 2021
    8
    Max Payne meets common platformer. Gameplay is wonderful. But too much chatting and story isn't too great if you ask me. Interactivity in dialogues is good but in such games I prefer swords and bullets, not words.
  31. Hontesuki
    Dec 29, 2020
    10
    simply incredible, the game manages to trap you with the wonderful soundtrack and gameplay, not to mention the art that is fantastic!
  32. Rarted
    Jan 6, 2021
    7
    The game is pretty good, although it's unfinished. I think it makes a really interesting connection between story and gameplay. I think I would scale the rating up to an 8 when the game is finished, because right now we now almost nothing about the real plot.
  33. thedungeoner
    Jan 4, 2021
    9
    Katana zero is a fast-paced action game, and its gameplay is awesome. What you don't know is, Katana ZERO also has an awesome story, brilliant writing and fun scenes. This game is so fun, and it is definitely worth a try :)
  34. yxtsama
    Jan 19, 2022
    9
    The gameplay is really fun and cool looking, fast, and cool-looking. The story was also very good in my opinion.
    İt's not a long game but nothing you do feels unnecessary, it never gets boring.
    I recommend you to play it
  35. mycaky
    Jan 15, 2021
    10
    grafikler belki gerçkeçi değil ama graikleri insanı havaya sokuyor oyun iyi dizayn edilmiş devamının gelmesini heyecanla bekliyorum
  36. AliB2020
    Apr 30, 2021
    9
    Such a fantastic game which bounded with a fantastic story line. Nice game play and nice sound tracks. I really enjoyed it
  37. AstellV
    Feb 1, 2021
    10
    This game has good lore, art, and music. It was also insanely fun and I played it over and over again. I strongly recommend this game.
  38. yertre
    Feb 15, 2021
    8
    Katana Zero's core gameplay loop is great, the soundtrack is incredible, and the story is at the very least interesting enough to carry the rest of the game. I just wish there were more of it.

    Most of all, I wish there was more gameplay. The one shot kills are incredibly satisfying, and I wish there were more levels to use them in. Many of the bosses are also too easy and get over too    Katana Zero's core gameplay loop is great, the soundtrack is incredible, and the story is at the very least interesting enough to carry the rest of the game. I just wish there were more of it.

    Most of all, I wish there was more gameplay. The one shot kills are incredibly satisfying, and I wish there were more levels to use them in. Many of the bosses are also too easy and get over too fast. In fact, some bosses have final phases that don't even trigger sometimes because you've dealt too much damage.

    I'm not kidding when I say that I would have given Katana Zero a 10 if it was pure gameplay. As it is, it's still a pretty good game though. If you want a game with a satisfying core gameplay loop and a killer soundtrack, play Katana Zero. I can't say you'll like the rest of the game, though.    … Expand
  39. gab_izidio
    Feb 5, 2021
    9
    Katana ZERO - 9.4 / 10 - {highly recommend}
    The game is [Challenging, Unique, Engaging, Artistic]
    => Pros: + Fantastic story; + Combat dynamics and unique time; + Perfect soundtrack; + Very challenging; + Unique missions; + Very beautiful art; + Makes the player thirsty for continuation; + Keys / Easter eggs perfectly placed in the levels, which are great and encourage the    Katana ZERO - 9.4 / 10 - {highly recommend}
    The game is [Challenging, Unique, Engaging, Artistic]

    => Pros:
    + Fantastic story;
    + Combat dynamics and unique time;
    + Perfect soundtrack;
    + Very challenging;
    + Unique missions;
    + Very beautiful art;
    + Makes the player thirsty for continuation;
    + Keys / Easter eggs perfectly placed in the levels, which are great and encourage the player to play more after the story ends;

    => Cons:
    - Dialogue is sometimes unnecessarily appealing;
    - Bosses could be more challenging;
    - Variety of base enemies is small;
    - The unique swords released at the end of the game end up being a little unusable, because you only release them at the end, so it doesn't make much difference because there is nothing else for you to do besides speed run;

    => VERDICT:
    The verdict is that, it's amazing how the developers managed to turn a 2D game into such a complex masterpiece like this. The story is so good that it instigates the player’s curiosity at all times, dialogues throughout history alter events, which gives more power to the person's choices. Framed art in speech bubbles, scenarios, and the dynamics of slowing down time, along with the gameplay that is so fluid, unique, and addictive, besides being able to be challenging in the right measure, at the same time that it’s captivating, turn this game into a masterpiece complete. The negative points are nothing compared to everything that this game is and has to offer, so don't think twice before you give that game a try, and feel the chaotic life of Katana ZERO in your skin.    … Expand
  40. Hollow393
    Mar 20, 2021
    10
    Katana Zero es un juego que hace muy bien todo lo que hace, la historia es muy buena y la jugabilidad es impecable, muy recomendado para cualquier persona quiera un juego muy bueno y con un precioso diseño
  41. Douleur
    Apr 1, 2021
    10
    Katana ZERO has a really amazing gameplay with unique and cool story. It was super fun to play with friends, taking turns finishing the levels.
  42. CalvinSD
    May 10, 2021
    9
    This game works really well on the "feeling of playing it" : The music, the ambient, the characters, the lore. It is a very unique experience in my opinion, hardly lovers of cyberpunk dystopia would'nt like it.
    The gameplay, personally, I've adapted really well, for me the difficulty was just normal. Killing enemies is so enjoyable (and badass).
    The art... everything is so "alive", when    This game works really well on the "feeling of playing it" : The music, the ambient, the characters, the lore. It is a very unique experience in my opinion, hardly lovers of cyberpunk dystopia would'nt like it.
    The gameplay, personally, I've adapted really well, for me the difficulty was just normal. Killing enemies is so enjoyable (and badass).
    The art... everything is so "alive", when you see a frame of the game you would think: "Oh, a indie game, cool." But in-game, the animations are really impressive, exceeded my expectations.
    The only bad things is the short campaing, resulting in lightweight emotional scenes, and the "illusion" to choose paths that don't really changes the final of the game.    … Expand
  43. BellCn
    May 24, 2021
    9
    Uma gameplay frenetica e muito legal, onde voce encontra musicas que com certeza ira adicionar a sua playlist do spotify, nao apenas isso mas a arte por tras e uma das mais belas onde voce encontra complexidade nas coisas mais simples, assim como uma narrativa interessante onde voce nao se encontra no lado de um grande protagonista onde vai desvendar tudo e salvar a todos, mas sim de um exUma gameplay frenetica e muito legal, onde voce encontra musicas que com certeza ira adicionar a sua playlist do spotify, nao apenas isso mas a arte por tras e uma das mais belas onde voce encontra complexidade nas coisas mais simples, assim como uma narrativa interessante onde voce nao se encontra no lado de um grande protagonista onde vai desvendar tudo e salvar a todos, mas sim de um ex combatente que se sente uma falha, que procura auto aprovacao, e q por final quer um pouco de paz, sua ida aparenta ser de ir ate onde sua curiosidade mandar e entao poder finalmente descansar, com certeza melhor jogo de todos os jogados por mim… Expand
  44. Umur
    Sep 10, 2022
    8
    Best indie game i have ever played. At first you are like what is going on here but then the story unfolds itself and that what makes this game special.
  45. XxYoxX
    Jun 5, 2021
    10
    Es una maravilla, la historia está genial y el gameplay es hermoso a no mas poder
  46. Aiatin
    Jun 7, 2021
    8
    Katana Zero is what you get when you take Viewtiful Joe and swap out the super hero cinema for post-war intrigue and VHS tapes. Our protagonist is a swordsman with recurring nightmares under the care of a psychologist who's getting him high every day and sending him off to erase targeted individuals only to come home to a flat so filthy that the pizza boxes on the floor wish they couldKatana Zero is what you get when you take Viewtiful Joe and swap out the super hero cinema for post-war intrigue and VHS tapes. Our protagonist is a swordsman with recurring nightmares under the care of a psychologist who's getting him high every day and sending him off to erase targeted individuals only to come home to a flat so filthy that the pizza boxes on the floor wish they could move out. He sets off to complete missions using the power of a bullet-deflecting sword, his everything-dodging tumble, and his expert skill at beaning baddies with bottles to clear everyone between himself and the target without taking a hit himself. This is because any hit fails the attempt: the VHS tape rewinds for a do-over. In this way, game-play is regarded as "planning" till it "should work," and once done right, the successful try is what goes to the tape shelf. Again reminiscent of Viewtiful Joe, but without the clapboards and with dodging being part of the inputs rather than a slow-motion reflex.

    That's really where Katana Zero shines. Your slow-motion button doesn't feel like a required mechanic. It helps a lot, but if you learn the cues and timing you don't need slow motion to pop an enemy by batting back his bullet. It’s much more a tool that you are free to use or not as you see fit, unlike Viewtiful Joe where often it, and its complement Mach Speed, were required to advance. The freedom to figure out how you want to clear a stage and budget your slow in crowded rooms is so strong that in one stage where a new skill is introduced I spent too long not noticing that it was hinted at by a return of the tutorial icons because I was too interested in finding a way to overcome the challenge using sword, tumble, and slow.

    The game's length feels right at a dozen chapters. Variety in stage content is a bit low, however, since what's changing between most chapters is just graphics. Stage environments aren't very diverse so story development is the only strong sense of progression other than the difficulty curve. Many of the stage layouts are rooms in two or three rows with occasional stairs or a drop floor between them. There are occasional action stages that play like 8-bit classics which provide breaks from the steady escalation of the main game-play style, but they're so distinct that they don't feel like they're part of your skill progression. Replay value is sufficient here, with the first run being a learning experience, the second being a comparison of how much more adept you've become, and if you're interested in mastering your moves, there's a speed-run mode as a reward for first completion. However, I don't feel particularly compelled to play through it a third time in the near future. Instead, I'm looking forward to a sequel.

    The background music in stages does a great job of feeling present without becoming distracting. It's easy to be paying full attention to the game and lose track of the music, much better than for the music to become a distraction. This is a strong contrast to the cut-scenes where the music has a much stronger role to play since the player's not thinking about deflecting bullets and tumbling through trouble. There, the music carries the scenes with pieces adept at setting the right mood for the player to approach pending dialog branch choices.

    Graphic quality is consistent and attractive, and true to some of the limited palette techniques that get the most out of few colors, like dithering similar colors for simple shading gradients. Most of the environments read naturally, and the few times when it's resorting to nonsense industrial aesthetic, even though it doesn't look like anything it doesn't look bad. A nice touch was an accurate recreation of an on-screen display font for the pause and options menus that looks genuine to anyone who had a VCR of that era.

    Difficulty isn't very high to get through the story, especially since by design you keep trying till you get it right with no concern for lives or game-over mechanics. Once you get a handle of what works and what doesn't, it's all execution practice and maybe some luck in trying things till something works. There isn't much randomness to worry about, but enemy shotgun blasts appear to have randomized scatter patterns so there's a little bit of variation if you intend to get fancy around the buckshot.

    Katana Zero lets you enjoy the experience of experimenting with it, finding not only the way through each stage, but the way that also best fits your style. Everything that happens makes sense once you get a little experience with the various enemy types, and there's a strong sense of accomplishment in clearing parts of stages without slow motion but also no sense of it being a crutch to use it in places where you haven't developed the ability to see the future, yet. It's the best parts of Viewtiful Joe with more story, fewer gimmicks, and plenty of action-puzzle fun in right-sized doses. "Yes, that should work."    … Expand
  47. dimamama
    Jun 18, 2021
    10
    Охуенно. Охуенно. Охуенно. Охуенно. Охуенно. Охуенно. Охуенно. Охуенно. Охуенно.
  48. ningenshot
    Jun 19, 2021
    9
    Neon-Synthwave-Samurai goes haywire cuz his psychiatrist wont give him drugs
  49. Entagonist
    Jul 2, 2021
    10
    The game was really awesome, but I have just one question:

    Where's my DLC?
  50. ErdemMT5
    Aug 23, 2021
    8
    +Creative storytelling,
    +Interesting lore about kinda time slower drugs and mutant warriors created by government.
    +Simple 2d fast paced combats with some innovations like time loop.
    +Not too long game time,
    I'm finished the game at once, that was a pretty good experience :)
  51. tsunemoriakane
    Oct 30, 2021
    8
    güzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağıgüzel oyun bayağı
  52. infinity_1996
    Oct 30, 2021
    9
    Non-linear story telling with lots of depth, coherent story writing and concept; beautiful art style but leaves a little punch to be desired
  53. Soso4ek
    Nov 10, 2021
    10
    Лучшая инди-игра в которую я когда либо играл. Начиная стилистикой и музыкой, заканчивая персонажами и сюжетом. Настолько запала в душу, что обогнала даже любимый Хотлайн Майами. Геймплей резвый и очень классный, всем обязательно играть и не слушать нытиков вонючих, крепкое 10 и не обсуждается.Лучшая инди-игра в которую я когда либо играл. Начиная стилистикой и музыкой, заканчивая персонажами и сюжетом. Настолько запала в душу, что обогнала даже любимый Хотлайн Майами. Геймплей резвый и очень классный, всем обязательно играть и не слушать нытиков вонючих, крепкое 10 и не обсуждается.
  54. ibanegas
    Mar 20, 2023
    9
    I have to text something without another option if I want to rate the game: short, but enjoyable. Enough? Haha.
  55. Heisenberg_bb
    Dec 8, 2021
    10
    simple and fun gameplay with an awesome story and a great art style, can't wait for the DLC
  56. KDA-st
    Jan 7, 2022
    10
    The game make you spend 4-5 hours. You may have difficult to understand story in first time but the game is better when you understand all story so if you want understand everything you should play at least 2-3 times
  57. rif_lakar28
    Feb 6, 2022
    9
    The most interesting about this game is the game mechanic is the storyline for this game
  58. Alpersian34
    Feb 12, 2022
    10
    Doner kebab

    Ingredients 500g lamb mince 1 small onion, coarsely grated 4 garlic cloves, minced or finely grated 100g fresh breadcrumbs 2 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp dried oregano ¼ tsp smoked paprika sunflower oil for oiling To serve pitta breads, shredded red or white cabbage, sliced onion, chopped tomatoes, pickled chillies, chilli sauce (see recipe    Doner kebab

    Ingredients

    500g lamb mince
    1 small onion, coarsely grated
    4 garlic cloves, minced or finely grated
    100g fresh breadcrumbs
    2 tsp ground cumin
    2 tsp ground coriander
    1 tsp dried oregano
    ¼ tsp smoked paprika
    sunflower oil for oiling

    To serve

    pitta breads, shredded red or white cabbage, sliced onion, chopped tomatoes, pickled chillies, chilli sauce (see recipe below), garlic sauce (see recipe below), tahini

    Method

    STEP 1

    Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Tip all the ingredients except the oil into a food processor with a large pinch of salt and lots of ground pepper. Pulse until everything is combined and chopped together. You can also just squish everything together in a bowl but this will give you a looser finish.
    STEP 2

    Oil a large sheet of foil, tip the meat mix in the middle and mould to a very thick sausage, roughly the shape of an aubergine. Roll up the foil tightly, twisting up the ends to create a Christmas cracker shape.
    STEP 3

    Lay on a shallow roasting tin and roast in the oven for 35-40 mins, turning occasionally, or until a digital cooking thermometer reads 75C when pierced in the middle. Leave the kebab to cool a little, then unwrap the foil. Place back on the tray and brown under the grill or with a blowtorch.
    STEP 4

    Place on a board and carve into thin slices. For full doner mode, you can hold the kebab up with a roasting fork or metal skewer and carve. Serve with warm pitta bread and any of the other accompaniments, including our chilli sauce and garlic yogurt sauce.    … Expand
  59. EzeCliment27
    May 17, 2022
    9
    Un pixel art genial, con diseño de niveles brutal y una accion non stop epiquisima.
    Historia: 9/10
    Jugabilidad: 10/10
    Musica: 10/10
  60. Salemidolwowore
    Aug 5, 2022
    9
    Gameplay is fun you can dodge and slowing the time but the Time slowing is bad in my opinion I like the fast paced because that I hate him and the story
    The Story Really Is Not Complete Because That I Can't See Anything About it Except The Ending It's Bad Not Good Ending For The Game And The Music Is Decent In Do Not Remember Any Ost Except Hit The Floor And Blue Room And The Art Style    Gameplay is fun you can dodge and slowing the time but the Time slowing is bad in my opinion I like the fast paced because that I hate him and the story
    The Story Really Is Not Complete Because That I Can't See Anything About it Except The Ending It's Bad Not Good Ending For The Game And The Music Is Decent In Do Not Remember Any Ost Except Hit The Floor And Blue Room And The Art Style It's Maybe The Best Pixel Art Style I Ever Seen It's Very Beautiful And The
    Katana Zero It's Very Good Game And I Wish The Sequel Or The DLC Right Now    … Expand
  61. TunEymen
    Mar 8, 2022
    10
    En sevdiğim oyun kesinlikle puanım 100 müzikler hoş grafikler hoş animasyonlar hoş biraz zor ama olsun sonuçta katana zero :)
  62. BannerSiamang15
    Mar 10, 2022
    9
    I am top 100 sppedrunner in this game. I am amazing at game so listen to what I have to say. This game is good and music is good and story is good and grafix is good and gameplay is good and I am good.
  63. sanarsin_shika
    May 19, 2022
    10
    i really like this game. i m only look game's combat but this game's story is so good
  64. AkiraChisaka
    May 19, 2022
    8
    The game is a pretty fun game. I would say the best part of the game is the story.

    However, the ending was a bit too open ended for my liking. I prefer ending where more is explained and less things are left vague.

    All in all a pretty good game.
  65. The_D4RknesS
    Jun 29, 2022
    10
    Why hasn't 2 been done yet? what an amazing game i felt like the best ninja when i played this
  66. hahaemeralds
    Jun 10, 2022
    10
    One of the best indie games I've ever played. Looking forward to a sequel sometime in the near future.
  67. TekOyunculu
    Jun 22, 2022
    9
    I really didn't expect it at all but this game surprised me, it gave the best story-wise twist I've ever seen in a game, the last undertale from an indie production I experienced this in the last undertale really amazing game one of the best indie games I've played a game that every player should try

    graphic- :D gameplay-10/8 mechanical-10/9 story-10/9 scenario-10/9 characters-10/9    I really didn't expect it at all but this game surprised me, it gave the best story-wise twist I've ever seen in a game, the last undertale from an indie production I experienced this in the last undertale really amazing game one of the best indie games I've played a game that every player should try

    graphic- :D
    gameplay-10/8
    mechanical-10/9
    story-10/9
    scenario-10/9
    characters-10/9
    main character-10/10

    my score-100/92    … Expand
  68. george_bondo
    Jul 24, 2022
    10
    this game is just perfect with that beautiful music , characters and atmosphere
  69. bokarsh-z
    Jan 9, 2023
    5
    =======
    only worth 5 dollar or watch it utube.
    =======
    - 2.30 - 3 hour long.
    -disappointment ending (open ending), bad controls, rebitive gameplay.
    -good challenge bosses and interesting story hope make movie for this game.
    -buy hot Miami 2 full price instead.
  70. Loganscuba
    Jul 30, 2022
    8
    Decent soundtrack
    visceral violence
    makes you feel bad-ass

    Meh story, had some potential, some cool ideas that could have been expanded upon. Why isn't there a sequel?
    New game plus options are pretty lame.
  71. 3ls0ul
    Mar 6, 2023
    9
    Este juego aún no lo eh jugado o completado, así que pondré una reseña y nota diferentes cuando lo haga.
  72. n3wta
    Jan 18, 2023
    10
    This game is.. is awesome. Really, one of my favorites. It's story, game-play, musics, boss fights, difficulty every details are awesome. I every time listen it's musics, specially Blue Room - Tunç Çakır. Game-play already awesome. You can use katana as you wish. Time control mechanic is really wisely
  73. Aqualonuss
    Nov 5, 2022
    10
    Katana Zero besitzt eine einzigartige Narrative. Die unfassbar gut erzählte Story macht dieses Indiegame zu einem Meisterwerk. Die spannende Geschichte überzeugt durchgehend mit spannenden Plot Twists, gut geschriebenen Dialogen und interessanten Charakteren.
    Das Gameplay ist knackig und intuitiv und das Schnetzeln, durch die unterschiedlichen Level, fühlt sich einfach gut an.
    Geniales    Katana Zero besitzt eine einzigartige Narrative. Die unfassbar gut erzählte Story macht dieses Indiegame zu einem Meisterwerk. Die spannende Geschichte überzeugt durchgehend mit spannenden Plot Twists, gut geschriebenen Dialogen und interessanten Charakteren.
    Das Gameplay ist knackig und intuitiv und das Schnetzeln, durch die unterschiedlichen Level, fühlt sich einfach gut an.

    Geniales Spiel. Indie-Meisterwerk.    … Expand
  74. Linkdd2
    Nov 19, 2022
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. gráficos incríveis, Jogabilidade simples e complexa,e com uma historia tocante e emocionante, e a DLC parece estar INCRIVEL!!, Katana Zero é um daqueles jogos que te mostra que jogos 2D tbm podem ser INCRIVEIS e divertido, com uma dificuldade balanceada e em certo momentos desafiadora, e consegue contar a historia do protagonista de um jeito magnifico, e que faz o jogador tem um vinculo com o personagem rapidamente, que nem a criança, quando a gente conhece ela, a gente já considera ela meio chatinha, mas ao longo da historia, o jogo faz com que a gente AME aquele personagem, e eu espero ANSIOSAMENTE pela continuação do jogo.

    Parabéns aos envolvidos nessa MARAVILHA de jogo    … Expand
  75. parallelnest
    Dec 10, 2022
    9
    this is a great game with a good story, fun game play and great pixel art and animation.
  76. Snoozeess
    Jan 19, 2023
    10
    One of the best games I have ever played. Game play, audio, music, art, the main character, everything is done at the highest level. At the highest.
  77. arllda
    Feb 4, 2023
    8
    its story reminds me of samurai jack very nice difficult but fun game bla bla bla
  78. ZeMan156
    Jan 27, 2023
    10
    Katana zero is a masterpiece, the game play feels crisp, it’s challenging but not unfair, and visually stunning. The game’s narrative is compelling and keeps you excited for more. The game has a unique dialogue system. You have a choice to skip the dialogue, making rude choices that can change the story, leading to different out comes. It’s is also still being supported by the developers,Katana zero is a masterpiece, the game play feels crisp, it’s challenging but not unfair, and visually stunning. The game’s narrative is compelling and keeps you excited for more. The game has a unique dialogue system. You have a choice to skip the dialogue, making rude choices that can change the story, leading to different out comes. It’s is also still being supported by the developers, working on dlc. Katana Zero will please many fans of high octane games like Hotline Miami, and other fans who will appreciate the beautiful pixel art, which you can tell has been made with real passion by the developers… Expand
  79. farrrullll
    Jan 27, 2023
    9
    Katana Zero Katana Zero Katana Zero Katana Zero Katana Zero Katana Zero
  80. Cool_guy1234
    Mar 15, 2023
    10
    I love literally everything about this game, the story, the gameplay, the music, and most importantly, the fact that, if you are willing to do so, your choices somewhat matter since there is a secret boss that I will not reveal, but basically you have to do the opposite of what the therapist says and choose certain dialogue choices. And it also matters in some minor elements as well, likeI love literally everything about this game, the story, the gameplay, the music, and most importantly, the fact that, if you are willing to do so, your choices somewhat matter since there is a secret boss that I will not reveal, but basically you have to do the opposite of what the therapist says and choose certain dialogue choices. And it also matters in some minor elements as well, like for example, the receptionist would either recognize your or be replaced entirely. Overall, this game is literally one of my favorites, and I am sure that the DLC would make it even greater. If it comes out of course.… Expand
  81. Laranja3321
    Apr 2, 2023
    9
    Jogo excelente com gráficos lindos e uma ótima direção de arte, pra mim o seu maior triunfo e conseguir passar uma historia envolvente e profunda em tão poucas horas de jogo. A gameplay de ação e planejamento é muito divertida e tudo fica melhor ainda com a trilha sonora do jogo que é simplesmente uma das minhas preferidas com destaque para a da boss fight final (Full Confession) que é umaJogo excelente com gráficos lindos e uma ótima direção de arte, pra mim o seu maior triunfo e conseguir passar uma historia envolvente e profunda em tão poucas horas de jogo. A gameplay de ação e planejamento é muito divertida e tudo fica melhor ainda com a trilha sonora do jogo que é simplesmente uma das minhas preferidas com destaque para a da boss fight final (Full Confession) que é uma obra de arte.… Expand
  82. juniorsrs
    Apr 13, 2023
    9
    literally cool:the game, what the actual **** the pixel art is amazing and you can see the hard work put in there, soundtrack is awesome and the narrative is crazy asf, a must play indie.
  83. ask_a_hat
    Apr 28, 2023
    9
    Excellent game with excellent soundtracks. You can not stop playing it after you started the game.
  84. Uygurlu
    Jul 22, 2023
    8
    I'd like to start with the game's (in my opinion) most prominent feature: the story. Katana Zero has the most impressive story I've seen in a game recently. Even in your short playing time of 4-4.5 hours, the game makes you adopt its characters and make you feel happy, sad, hate and fear for them. At the same time, since we determine all the dialogues of our main character Zero, we createI'd like to start with the game's (in my opinion) most prominent feature: the story. Katana Zero has the most impressive story I've seen in a game recently. Even in your short playing time of 4-4.5 hours, the game makes you adopt its characters and make you feel happy, sad, hate and fear for them. At the same time, since we determine all the dialogues of our main character Zero, we create his character completely by ourselves. If you want, you can create an aggressive character who interrupts others before they finish speaking, or you can turn him into a good-natured and kind person. Or, as I did, I created a character who was bored with life and snapped at people at first, but when a little girl whose name I didn't even know joined the game, both me and my character changed. Of course, this diversity makes it extremely easy to put yourself in the character's shoes. On the other hand, the story presentation is very high quality and the side characters are above average. The only bad or missing part of the story for me is that it ends the game without giving the player some answers. Normally I like this storytelling as long as it's in moderation, but in Katana Zero, almost no questions are answered at the end of the game and new questions are added. This makes the ending less impressive for me.

    Let's talk about the gameplay. In terms of gameplay, Katana Zero is quite similar to Hotline Miami. Katana Zero has a structure that asks you to die multiple times in each episode, learn the episodes completely with a single life, develop special tactics for each episode and play accordingly. The level designs are really impressive and the level variety is very high. There are really 10s of different chapter types. But besides that, the number of chapters that repeat each other in terms of basic logic, if not completely, is quite high. This is one of the cons of the game for me. Although the number of boss fights is quite low, the ones that are there are quite high quality. At the same time, some bosses can really annoy you with their difficulty. This makes the player feel a sense of accomplishment very well.

    Finally, soundtracks of Katana Zero can be both moving and exhilarating at the same time and to summarize them in one word: Perfect.

    Pros
    -Excellent story and presentation
    -Adopting characters
    -Level design
    -Section diversity
    -Fast and enjoyable gameplay
    -Challenging and high quality bosses, each designed differently
    -Perfect soundtracks

    Cons
    -The story leaves many questions unanswered
    -Some sections in a repetitive style
    -Few bosses

    I would recommend everyone to play this truly impressive game.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

36
#36 Best PC Game of 2019
26
#26 Most Discussed PC Game of 2019
28
#28 Most Shared PC Game of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 27
  3. Negative: 0 out of 27
  1. GameCritics
    Jun 21, 2019
    85
    Katana ZERO is relatively short action experience, but the fast, brutal, and provocative play left me wanting more — and that’s about the highest praise I can give it.
    Read full review
  2. 4P.de
    May 13, 2019
    83
    Intense and challenging arcade-action embedded in a great story.
    Read full review
  3. GameGrin
    May 13, 2019
    85
    Weighing in at over five hours, it’s not the longest game you’ll ever play, but it’s wide open for replayability, and the story is great.
    Read full review
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