Bloodthief

Bloodthief is a small game, but it's packed with challenge. It relies on speed and precision, delivering an enjoyable experience for Speedrun enthusiasts. If you're looking for excitement in a simple format, this game is definitely worth trying.

While the concept of being able to dash, slash and smash on enemies while moving incredibly fast isn't a revolutionary idea, it doesn't have to be. The idea of being a vampire who's granted superhuman strength and speed, backed up with amusing play and a fantastic soundtrack, Bloodthief stands above the rest as a super-fast, super-fun video game that provides hours of content that can go either like this: You speed through the levels, killing and parkouring as much (or as little) as you want, or get stuck on a single level attempting to beat the level score or finding all the secrets. Either way you decide to play, it never punishes you for doing so. Bloodthief is a hidden gem in an already great pile, but this gem certainly sparkles a little bit more.

By speedrunners, for speedrunners, Bloodthief is a mostly fun, adrenaline-pumping game tailored almost exclusively to those who take pleasure in trying a level a hundred times just so they can decrease their time by about five seconds. It offers a punishing, high-speed experience that demands precision and quick reflexes, packaged in a nice and simple, retro-looking, dark medieval fantasy wrapping. The lack of accessibility for non-speedrunners, combined with the slightly inconsistent mechanics and a somewhat tedious level design, makes it a tough sell to a broader audience.

Bloodthief knows what it wants to be and does it very well. However, those looking for a deeper world or lore will be disappointed.

BloodTheif delivers a unique experience and stands among the best releases of this packed year. It proves its place in a highly competitive space, even within a crowded month. Its fast, complex gameplay is pure adrenaline, paired with a stunning soundtrack that creates an experience I won’t forget anytime soon.