When it's not done right. Some games have gotten it right, Dust: An Elysium tial, The Messenger, Ori and strider remake as the few examples that have decent 2D combat. The problem is 2d games have to directions and it becomes the most basic gameplay experience. There's no strategy you can learn to implement or at least it's as shallow as it can possibly be.
I'm currently playing some 2d games trying to get some to gel, Salt and Santury, Ender Lillies, Tails of Iron, Streets of rage 4, Eiden Chronicle Rising and Hollow knight. They're all so basic, you swing the sword light or heavy, it's one click. Ender lillies has skills but again, it's so basic. 5 games in a row, all just boring one click button to hit an enemy. Salt & Sanctury has parry mechanics but it's unsatisfying. It all boils down to one button presses at the end of the day.
What am I missing here, I know I used to love sidscrolling beat em us but in this new era of gaming it all feels peeled back. No skill or strategy besides moving. Salt & Santury tries to be souls but it fails, you're mainly dying because you get stuck between the boss and a wall. Devs can't implement unique movesets or mechanics. That's not fun.
Last edited by LegitHyperbole - on 03 September 2024
