When we talk about the hardest genres in gaming based on pure difficulty, (as opposed to skill,) certain ones immediately spring to mind. For different reasons, we can’t have this conversation without mentioning Soulslikes, Roguelikes, or anything considered part of the Bullet-hell genres. Whether this is because of the need for adaptability, twitch-perfect reflexes, or raw organic difficulty, all these genres are notorious for good reason. So what happens when we take the already headache-inducing Soulslike genre and introduce Metroidvania elements? Mark of the Deep happens, and we’ll discuss this game today.
Coming from Light Up Games and Mad Mimic, Mark of the Deep is a swashbuckling adventure game that fuses elements of some of the genres I’ve just mentioned. If you’re into a bit of piracy, Mark of the Deep has just set sail for PC over on Steam, and if it’s more your preference, courtesy of the Epic Games Store. If you grab your copy quickly you can snag a 15% launch celebration discount. This is being made available for the first ten days, so if you want it you’ll need to get your skates on.
In Mark of the Deep, you’ll be stepping into the shoes of Marcus “Rookie” Ramsey, a pirate stranded on a cursed island. In this swashbuckling tale, you’ll have to harness the power of mysterious Marks to battle over eighty unique enemies, sixteen challenging bosses, and uncover the island’s hidden truths.
Mark of the Deep offers branching paths and multiple endings. You’re going to find yourselves faced with some tough choices if you are to complete your journey in the best way possible. You’ll also obviously need a certain amount of skill. Sharp decision-making is only going to take your part of the way. Having a sharp cutlass is going to be equally important.
In true Metroidvania style, you’ll find yourself exploring interconnected environments filled with treasures, danger, and mystery. As you engage in Soulslike combat with deadly foes ranging from deranged cultists to abyssal horrors you’ll also harness the power of the Marks. The Marks will allow you to unlock fearsome abilities that will not only reshape how you approach combat but also how you explore.
If Mark of the Deep sounds like something that might be calling to the adventurer in you, you can find it over on Steam here. If Epic Games is more your thing you’ll find it here on the Epic Games Store. Don’t forget about that discount, a little off can go a long way.
Mark of the Deep is the sort of game that sounds like it’s going to be great for anyone loving a challenge. As someone who absolutely doesn’t fit into this category, you’ll no doubt be hearing more from me on this subject at some point soon. Don’t get me wrong, I love the concept, I just know my limits. Not that this has ever stopped me from talking about things I’m not very good at. While you’re all getting your copies I’d best go and find my pirate hat. I think I’m going to need it.
