Moonscars: A Gritty, Nonlinear Action Metroidvania Inspired by Dark Souls

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Studio Black Mermaid, supported by Humble Games, has unveiled Moonscars, a bold action metroidvania inspired by the mood and challenge of Dark Souls. The title was announced earlier this summer and has since sparked a spectrum of opinions on Steam, with a current positive review rate around two thirds. Players who crave tough combat, tactical exploration, and a handcrafted atmospheric world may find Moonscars a compelling addition to the genre.

According to the release trailer, the game invites players to “step into a dark world filled with trials where every death hardens the resolve and every misstep peels back another layer of the truth.” The message suggests a narrative steeped in mystery, where perseverance unlocks deeper understanding rather than simple progression.

The core protagonist is Irma, a female figure sculpted from clay, whose central objective is to locate a specific sculptor and uncover the mystery surrounding her own existence. Her journey is framed by a harsh, unforgiving landscape that tests both strategy and nerve, with every encounter demanding careful timing and precision.

Developers highlight several defining elements. Moonscars emphasizes a high level of hardcore difficulty, a somber and immersive atmosphere, and a nonlinear two-dimensional world that rewards curiosity with hidden paths, secrets, and unexpected twists in the plot. Players can expect meaningful skill and weapon upgrades that gradually reshape combat style and strategy as they progress.

Moonscars is available on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch. At the time of writing, the title has not yet appeared in the Russian Steam region, reflecting regional release schedules rather than a lack of availability elsewhere.

All Moonscars screenshots and visual materials can be viewed through official channels and publisher galleries. The game’s visual design draws heavily on gothic and occult motifs, with environments crafted to create a persistent sense of mystery and danger throughout the player’s voyage.

In related news, discussions have circulated about how classic Gothic titles like Bloodborne influence contemporary crossovers, including the idea of translating iconic gameplay concepts into different universes, such as Minecraft. This ongoing conversation highlights the enduring appeal of atmospheric, challenging action games and the way fans reimagine them across genres and platforms. Attribution for this broader discourse is provided by VG Times and other industry outlets reporting on such cross-media collaborations.

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