Young
Souls

Young Souls (2021) is a side-on fighting game about two drop-out teenagers whose mentor disappears. Gameplay is divided into two distinct worlds: the modern human world and a dark, twisted world of goblins and monsters. You brawl and crunch your way through ranks of enemies like Castle Crashers, only here there's more focus on the story and a chance to collect and upgrade loot between rounds.

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Jenn and Tristan, orphaned at a young age, have become social outcasts and troublemakers. They discover a portal into another dimension, ruled by goblins and other fell creatures. You fight to bridge these two very strange and different worlds to save the one person who accepted who you are.

Gameplay is primarily combat with swords and other melee weapons to inflict damage on enemies. You can upgrade your weapons and abilities, and customise your appearance. The many weapons and pieces of equipment have different strengths, weaknesses and incumbrance, so honing each character's set-up is essential. In between fights, you can train in the gym with mini-games that improve your strength and ability further.

It's a novel blend of side-scrolling action and emotional storytelling that, when paired with its deep combat, upgrade system and cooperative gameplay, creates something special. Of particular note is the emotional journey the young protagonists take, not only overcoming their place in society but facing up to shortcomings in their outlook and a need to take responsibility.

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Our examiner, Ben Kendall, first checked Young Souls 2 years ago. It was re-examined by Jo Robertson and updated 10 months ago.