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Valfaris

Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2019

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Quick resume

Set in a far corner of space, Valfaris is a heavy metal infused 2D action-platformer and the next game from the team behind Unity Awards finalist, Slain: Back From Hell. Brutal combat. Deadly enemies. Stunning pixel art. Savage soundtrack. Get ready to rip the galaxy a new wormhole.

Global score

83/100

Genres

Action, Indie, Platform, Shooter, Arcade

Pros

  • Challenging but fair gameplay
  • Excellent heavy metal soundtrack
  • Vibrant and detailed pixel art
  • Variety of weapons and upgrades
  • Engaging boss fights

Cons

  • Some control and aiming limitations
  • Linear level design with limited exploration
  • Difficulty spikes in later stages
  • Weapon upgrade system limits experimentation
  • Visual clutter can reduce clarity

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players can choose from a variety of weapons and upgrade paths, deciding their own combat style and checkpoint usage, reflecting high personal control."

  • Competence
    5

    "The game is challenging with skill-based combat, pattern recognition, and boss fights that reward mastery and provide clear feedback on performance."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is on single-player progression and personal challenge rather than competing against others or leaderboards."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Players report long sessions, replaying for mastery, and engaging with New Game+ modes, indicating strong desire to continue playing."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Entirely single-player experience with no cooperative or multiplayer elements."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players can customize loadouts with different weapons and upgrades, experimenting with combinations to suit playstyle."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No evidence of exerting control or superiority over others; gameplay is individual and focused on personal skill."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Heavy metal aesthetic, intense combat, and immersive atmosphere provide strong escape from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily for enjoyment and challenge, with no indication of obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Variety of weapons and upgrade choices encourage trying new tactics and adapting strategies."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Linear progression with some secrets and hidden areas encourages limited exploration within levels."

  • Expression
    2

    "Customization mainly through weapon loadouts and upgrades, allowing some personal expression but limited character or environment modification."

  • Fantasy
    4

    "Set in a sci-fi dark fantasy world with heavy metal themes, grotesque enemies, and imaginative settings."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "No social or community features; strictly single-player experience."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop skills through learning enemy patterns, mastering controls, and upgrading weapons."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related mechanics."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires continuous attention and focus due to challenging combat and platforming."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No social or emotional relationship building; purely individual gameplay."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements present."

  • Progression
    4

    "Players collect upgrade materials and unlock weapon enhancements, progressing powerfully through the game."

  • Relaxation
    -3

    "High tension and challenge dominate gameplay, with few moments of calm or flow."

  • Sensation
    4

    "Vibrant pixel art, gore effects, and heavy metal soundtrack provide strong sensory stimulation and excitement."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social recognition or status systems; achievements are personal."

  • Story
    2

    "Narrative is present but minimal; story supports atmosphere without heavy focus."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Players must plan weapon loadouts, manage energy, and learn enemy patterns to succeed."

  • Thrill
    4

    "High difficulty, boss fights, and risk/reward checkpoint system create suspense and excitement."

  • Value
    3

    "Players report good value for time spent, with engaging gameplay and replayability."

  • Violence
    5

    "Game heavily features combat, gore, destruction, and violent imagery consistent with heavy metal themes."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must avoid death and manage health and energy resources to progress."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026