Its one of those games if you're REALLY used to other action games, muscle memory can fuck you up. Especially when dodging is concerned.

Memorizing patterns is a bit of a must to master combat. Alternate between weaving or parrying. Whichever suits you best.

Pretty neat when you get used to it. Really does look like an action movie when you're good enough to make a consistent flow.

Can't say I care much on how upgrades are handled. Not a big fan of dumping 1,500 exp 5 (kinda 6) times in a row for a small counter after a dodge. It's unique, I'll give it that. But its not something I'd want in other games.

Thankfully, checkpoints are really generous. Even if you restart the level, the game saves all your unlocked shortcuts. Bad if you don't have enough upgrades but it's your choice to take the risk.

All 'n all, its pretty neat. VERY punishing at first but rewarding. Flawed but still solid.

Also I like how I can spare the bosses to get the good ending but not long ago I keep slitting some mook's throat. But those lives don't matter.