Absolum seamlessly merges the captivating replayability of Hades with the exhilarating combat found in Streets of Rage 4, creating a delightful concoction that has quickly garnered attention in the gaming community. Following the recent release of Hades 2, Absolum has emerged as a standout title in the action game genre this year, and with its current pricing, it presents an enticing opportunity for gamers looking to expand their collections shortly after launch.
Guard Crush Games’ Creative Leap
Developer Guard Crush Games, known for its work with established intellectual properties, showcases its creative prowess with Absolum. This title artfully combines elements from the finest fantasy games and integrates them into a robust beat ’em up framework. Unlike other side-scrollers such as TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge or Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, which often lean heavily into nostalgia, Absolum carves out its own identity.
With an impressive 92% rating on Steam, earning it a ‘Very Positive’ distinction, Absolum is poised to be one of the top indie games of the year. Players can select from a diverse array of classes, including a dwarf who unleashes a barrage of fists and bullets, or a humanoid frog wizard who elegantly surfs through the air on his staff.
Innovative Mechanics and Replayability
What sets Absolum apart is its incorporation of roguelike mechanics, enhancing the replayability factor beyond that of traditional beat ’em ups. Each gaming session begins by adding a ‘Ritual’ to the chosen class, providing passive bonuses or unique abilities. As players vanquish foes, they unlock new enhancements to equip, ensuring that every run feels fresh and engaging. Additionally, the game features elements reminiscent of the best RPGs, including side quests and branching paths, enriching the overall experience. Each character also boasts unique interactions throughout different playthroughs, a feature that echoes the charm of Hades.
If this sounds appealing, Absolum is currently available for just .49 / £16.37 on Fanatical, representing a generous 22% discount off the retail price. As a devoted fan of beat ’em ups, I acknowledge that the genre has seen its share of stagnation over the years. However, Absolum revitalizes the experience with modern mechanics and a harmonious blend of genres, resulting in a true gem.
Act swiftly, as this promotional price ends on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 11 PM PT, or Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 2 AM ET / 7 AM BST. Should you decide to embrace the adventure that Absolum offers, it may very well ascend to the top of your personal list of must-have PC games. For those who find Absolum doesn’t quite resonate, exploring our upcoming PC games guide could provide additional options for your wishlist.
For fellow enthusiasts of beat ’em ups, your discerning taste is commendable. Consider joining our PCGamesN Discord server to share your favorites. Just a friendly reminder, this isn’t a fight club, a lesson I learned the hard way, but now that you’re aware, feel free to engage without hesitation.
