Sloclap has detailed the combat system for the studio’s martial arts brawler Sifu, arriving early next year.
Sifu didn't show up at the recent PlayStation Showcase, yet the first previews for the intriguing project have already started to appear on the web. Sifu will revolve around its combat, so major highlights were dedicated to that component of the upcoming action game. The devs mentioned they are mostly inspired by the classic Jackie Chan films, but there will be plenty of references to other iconic martial arts movies in the game.
Overall, there will be more than 150 different combat moves in Sifu, primarily based on Pak Mei Kung Fu style, all unlockable while you progress through the game. There are only two buttons for strong and light kicks, yet there are plenty of opportunities for varied and devious combos. Players can even switch between their foes within a single chain of battle techniques.
Of course, you are allowed not only to kick and punch your opponents with fists and legs but to viciously utilize the environment to your benefit. Bottles, bats, broken furniture — everything around you in Sifu could be temporarily turned into a deadly weapon. You can also throw items at the enemies, with different animations and reactions depending on the context of the scene. You can also jump over obstacles with the action button.
The ability to defend yourself in battle is no less important, and the protagonist can dodge attacks, block them, or parry to accomplish the finisher. If the opponent has no stamina left, his defense is weakened, or he made a mistake, you can finish them off with one final blow.
Sifu’s unique death mechanic lets you return from the dead being a little older and stronger in punch, but your health will go lower each time. There will be a limit for revives before the character will die completely, forcing you to restart the level. Despite the devs saying that Sifu won’t be easy, there’s still a possibility to complete the whole story from a single take, without growing too old to die permanently.
Sifu is launching on 22 February 2022 on PC, PS4, and PS5. Both consoles will get you a 60 fps experience, with the next-gen platform will additionally offer higher resolutions and enhanced visuals.