Katana ZERO

 Switch
Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 37
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 37
  3. Negative: 0 out of 37
  1. Edge Magazine
    May 23, 2019
    70
    The killing is enjoyable, but we'd have happily done much more of it. [Issue#333, p.122]
    All this publication's reviews
  2. Gamer.nl
    May 7, 2019
    70
    In Katana Zero you will find shallow and flashy gameplay presented nicely. The story and the limited interaction is the main reason for playing this blood-spattered sidescroller. It's too bad it all ends a bit too sudden.
  3. Hardcore Gamer
    Apr 26, 2019
    70
    A satisfying streak of action-platforming madness together with some great world-building; the intentions and executions may not always come across fulfilled or impactful, but Katana Zero at least is a game that will attract on its narrative substance, as much its dynamic pixel-art style.
  5. Digital Chumps
    Apr 18, 2019
    70
    Katana Zero’s blade isn’t sharp enough to cut through its self-indulgent idiosyncrasy. Inventive action sequences that neatly divide improvisation and orchestration and a novel time-rewinding mechanic both suffer under an overwrought style miserably impressed with its own posture. Katana Zero works best when it’s not auditioning to change its title to Edge Lords.
  6. Gameplanet
    Jul 11, 2019
    60
    Katana Zero looks fantastic and has fun fast paced combat, unfortunately the combat is broken up with a confusing and convoluted story. It was all over too quickly, but for people who want more, a dialogue system provides replayability.
  7. Game Revolution
    Apr 18, 2019
    60
    If you can ignore gameplay flaws and focus on style, you might fall in love with its VHS trappings. However, if you want something beyond style, if you want an interesting interactive tale or a precise action game, you should look elsewhere.
This publication does not provide a score for their reviews.
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In Progress & Unscored

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  1. Eurogamer
    Apr 26, 2019
    Stylish and punishing, this is a darkly compelling treat. [Eurogamer Recommended]
  2. Polygon
    Apr 18, 2019
    For all its narrative grimness and all of its slimy settings and all of its repetition, I enjoy Katana Zero’s flair. Dark clubs blink with neon color, pulsing music echoes through each scenario, and characters move with a beautiful fluidity. I don’t expect that from a game of this style. It’s a cynical and sometimes ugly story told with unusual warmth and sincerity.

Awards & Rankings

44
#44 Best Switch Game of 2019
22
#22 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2019
51
#51 Most Shared Switch Game of 2019

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 250 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 216 out of 250
  2. Mixed: 17 out of 250
  3. Negative: 17 out of 250
  1. Predi
    Apr 18, 2019
    10
    Katana Zero has been absolutely incredible. The story is very intriguing, and does not leave you a moment of respite, making you want toKatana Zero has been absolutely incredible. The story is very intriguing, and does not leave you a moment of respite, making you want to continue and keep playing. An Indie masterpiece.… Full Review »
  2. Bitula
    May 18, 2019
    7
    "Katana Zero" is essentially a side scrolling version of "Hotline Miami" but with a flavor of 90s anime and samurai action. You play as an"Katana Zero" is essentially a side scrolling version of "Hotline Miami" but with a flavor of 90s anime and samurai action. You play as an assasin, with halucinations and a questionable grasp on reality. Sound familiar? Also you take orders from a shadowy organisation and between these hits you do menial tasks like drink herbal tea at home or go to the video store to rent movies. Yes this description fits both of these games perfectly. In broad strokes they are the same game. "Katana Zero" does however have a certain character of its own and not only in change of gameplay perspective. The story is original and interesting. There are even parts with unexpected emotional gravity. You care for some of the characters, or at least one of them and after a few hours of playing the game, you are probably invested in the plot.

    The graphics and controls are good and the action is fast and satisfying even if it comes in a bit too short bursts early on in the game. This does however get better once you get past the slightly too easy first half of the game.

    Not a masterpiece in any way but most certainly worth checking out if you like samurai assassins, VHS-nostalgia and fast paced one hit kill action in a gritty neo-noir world. Just don't forget to wear your bathrobe while playing.    … Full Review »
  3. PolishJohn
    May 7, 2019
    10
    Honestly it's probably a 9.5 or something but it's a really great game despite me personally being burned out on pixel throwbacks. ActionHonestly it's probably a 9.5 or something but it's a really great game despite me personally being burned out on pixel throwbacks. Action feels perfect. Story is interesting. Dialog options effecting actual gameplay is cool. Watch a playthru of the first couple levels and you'll prob love it.… Full Review »
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