Numskull Games and Bitmap Bureau have announced the release of their hack-n-slash fantasy Battle Axe on PC and consoles. Almost doubling it’s Kickstarter target, Battle Axe is a homage to classic arcade titles like Gauntlet and Golden Axe and is available digitally on all platforms with physical editions coming to Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4.
The kingdom of Mercia has been land of fear and violence since it was taken by the tyrannical sorceress named Etheldred. She rules the land without mercy from her tower in the icy north and every 7 years sends her armies south to gather innocents from each township and subject them to a life of slavery. The evil sorceress has a large army at her disposal and she is able to deter threats using ‘Generators’ which spawn out monsters when an enemy is detected. As the next culling is due the land calls out for a band of adventurers able to put an end to this evil rule once and for all and it’s pne of these champions that players will take control of.
Players will choose from one of three champions: Rooney – a strong pirate equipped with a cannon, Fae – a nimble warrior skilled with dual blades and Iolo – a mage who excels with fireballs, all 3 will have their own close-range melee attack but also a long-range projectile attack but each has their own traits, weaponry and skills.
The lands of Mercia are filled with enemies and when killed will occasionally reward with items and gold that can be used to purchase equipment and upgrades from the travelling merchant, Ælfwen.
As well as gameplay inspired by the classics, Battle Axe also has a soundtrack composed by Manami Matsumae, composer of classics like Mega Man, Final Fight, Area 88, Mercs and more.
Battle Axe is available now on PC via Steam and on consoles through the console’s online stores.