Despite being a Metroidvania, this game feels more focused on combat than exploration. Not inherently a negative, but something I found a bit disappointing. The extent of the exploration was generally just there being two paths to get to a place instead of one, but both were normally connected by another part anyways so it's less of a "find a way yourself" and more of "ok pick left or right" type of situation. The combat itself though I do find pretty enjoyable, it isn't very complex but it just feels satisfying to slash at things. The soul system also helps with this regard, the soul system in general I think is what brings the game together as it gives an incentive to try to find new enemies (exploration), to kill enemies (combat), and it gives you new abilities which plays in with the rpg-esque level and gear systems.

The areas felt distinctive, each having their own visual identity along with their own tracks (which were quite nice for the most part I may add) which stops the game from feeling too repetitive.

The side modes were fine but nothing really interesting. Hard mode wasn't super substantial, the alternate character takes like 30 minutes to beat, and boss rush is just boss rush.

I enjoyed my time with this one but it definitely isn't a masterpiece like I see others claim. Good, but it isn't amazing.