Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 37 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 37
  2. Negative: 0 out of 37
  1. Apr 26, 2019
    Stylish and punishing, this is a darkly compelling treat. [Eurogamer Recommended]
  2. 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.
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 250 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 17 out of 250
  1. 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. 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. 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 »