Publisher 3D Realms and developer Point N' Sheep have revealed that the pixel art Soulslike Bloodless will be bringing the school of "non-lethal combat" to Switch on 10th October.
Yes, we did just say "non-lethal". You see, this Soulslike is all about tackling foes in a slightly less stabby manner. You play as Tomoe, a ronin who has given up her blade and sworn to never use it again. You'll have to utilise dash counters and powerful ki-attacks to overpower foes and bring the fight to Shogun Akechi, the bloodied leader responsible for bringing Tomoe's homeland to its knees.
It sounds rather interesting — seeing a Soulslike take a step back from 'stab big enemy with big sword' should be cool, at least. The pixel art visuals certainly look like they keep the coolness going, too, nailing a retro feel with the mostly monochrome colour palette and looking rather pretty in the process.
You can find a rundown of the game's key features and a handful of screenshots from the publisher below.
Unique Non-Lethal Combat: Tomoe has sworn not to take another life – master a combination of disarming counters and powerful ki-attacks to defeat your enemies.
Depth & Customization: Use special ki techniques for unique combos, as well as enhancements from crests and herb infusions you'll find across the land of Bakugawa.
Striking Environments: Explore the sacred natural environments and oppressed districts of Bakugawa, which suffers under a violent and corrupt military regime.
Emotional Storytelling: Seen as a coward and deserter in the eyes of her own people, Tomoe must return to her former land to spark the hope and courage Bakugawa needs to fight back.
Extra Challenges: Push your skills to the limit by collecting Warrior Idols scattered throughout Bakugawa and unlocking the Arenas.
Bloodless will land on the Switch eShop next month for £13.49 / $14.99.