Is Absolum a masterpiece or a disaster? Many of you are probably wondering. Scheduled to arrive in 2025, this title is a much-talked-about action game with roguelite elements. Even before release, opinions are flying around on social media and forums—while some say, “The controls and worldbuilding look god-tier!” others are concerned that “the difficulty and balance might be off.”
In this article, we thoroughly compile the latest info on Absolum, supported platforms, pros and cons, comparisons with related titles, and reactions from social media, and ultimately predict whether it will be a masterpiece or a flop. If you’re on the fence about buying, use this as a reference.
- What is Absolum?
- Absolum: Release Date, Price, Platforms, Genre, and Publisher
- Strengths of Absolum
- Weaknesses of Absolum
- Frequently Asked Questions About Absolum
- Settings, Environment, and Peripherals to Maximize Your Enjoyment
- Must-Play if You’re Hyped for Absolum: Related Titles
- Absolum vs. Hades: Which Should You Buy?
- Social Media Buzz: Hopes and Fears
- Is Absolum a Masterpiece or a Disaster? (Conclusion)
What is Absolum?
Absolum is a new roguelite action game slated for release in 2025. It’s developed by Modus Games and published domestically by Arc System Works, drawing growing attention both overseas and in Japan.
Built around the concept of “surviving a world of despair,” players explore a ruined world and engage in battles against a variety of enemies and powerful bosses. Each run features different stage layouts and item drops, blending the tension of a so-called “die-and-try-again” experience with the replayability unique to roguelites.
World and Story
The setting is a dark fantasy world after the collapse of civilization. You become a special being known as an “Absolum,” fighting to break the cycle of despair. The story is told in fragments, inviting players to theorize as they progress, which creates a deeply immersive world.
Gameplay Systems
Combat in Absolum is packed with speed and tension. There are multiple playable characters, each with different skills and weapons, allowing for strategic choices tailored to your playstyle. Additionally, the roguelite element where “a single death resets everything” makes repeat runs a core part of the design.
Visuals and Sound
The graphics are dark and weighty, with striking use of light and shadow. The soundtrack leans toward ambient design that heightens anxiety and tension, delivering an experience that resonates emotionally with players.
Absolum: Release Date, Price, Platforms, Genre, and Publisher
Absolum is a new action RPG arriving in 2025. According to official announcements, the release date is October 9, 2025 (Steam version launching first), with the Japan domestic version slated for November 6, 2025. Both physical and digital editions are planned for consoles, making it accessible to a wide range of players.
Release Date and Price
| Release Date | October 9, 2025 (Steam) November 6, 2025 (Japan domestic) |
|---|---|
| Price | Standard Edition: TBA (to be finalized at launch) Digital Deluxe Edition: TBA |
Supported Platforms
| Platforms | PlayStation 4 / PlayStation 5 / Nintendo Switch / PC (Steam / Windows) |
|---|---|
| Distribution | Digital / Physical (PS5 / Switch) |
Genre
Genre: Roguelite × Action RPG. It fuses difficulty designed around “death and retry” with diverse character-specific actions.
Publisher Info
- Developer: Modus Games
- Domestic Publisher: Arc System Works
- Sales Format: Physical (PS5 / Switch), Digital (PS4 / PS5 / Switch / PC)
From this information, it’s clear that Absolum isn’t just a small indie release—it’s a full-fledged action RPG with distribution in mind for both domestic and international markets.
Strengths of Absolum
Absolum boasts numerous strengths that will captivate players. These features fall into five categories: “Combat System,” “Replayability,” “Worldbuilding,” “Controls,” and “Visual Presentation.” Here, we summarize the positive elements based on publicly available information and demo impressions.
Engaging Combat System
The biggest draw is its fast-paced action battles. With combinations of weapons and skills, you can string together varied combos that test individual strategy. Because the “attack vs. dodge” mind game is constant, the design resists monotony.
Roguelite Replayability
Each run features different stage structures and item drops, keeping every attempt fresh. The high tension of “one death = lose everything” creates deep immersion and a natural “just one more run” addiction.
Worldbuilding and Immersion
Set in a ruined world, the fragmented storytelling encourages player interpretation—a style beloved by theory-crafters. The dark visuals emphasizing light/shadow and the tense soundtrack underline the theme of “finding a faint hope within despair.”
Responsive Controls
In action games, snappy responsiveness is crucial and is highly rated here. It pairs well with gamepads, and the intuitive control scheme enhances immersion.
Graphics and Presentation
Using Unreal Engine, its dark-fantasy graphics are beautiful, with excellent use of contrast. Enemy designs are distinctive, offering fresh tension with every encounter.
| Evaluation Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Combat System | Balance of speed and strategy |
| Replayability | Fresh runs via roguelite elements |
| Worldbuilding | Dark fantasy with strong immersion |
| Controls | Responsive and intuitive |
| Graphics | Beautiful use of light and shadow |
From these points, Absolum can be judged as a game with the powerful appeal of “driving players to keep challenging themselves.”
Weaknesses of Absolum
While Absolum has many charms, there are also concerns and potential issues. Summarizing pre-release criticisms and genre-specific weaknesses, we get the following:
High Difficulty Limits the Audience
Due to its roguelite nature, the specification that “a single death resets everything” is a major hurdle for beginners. Hardcore gamers who enjoy high difficulty may rate it highly, while casual or light players may find it “unfair.”
Story Can Be Hard to Follow
Fragmented storytelling attracts theory-lovers, but players who prefer straightforward narratives may feel dissatisfied. A structure that can feel like “not enough explanation” may hinder immersion for some.
Balance Concerns
Procedural generation in roguelites adds excitement, but there’s a risk of “too much RNG.” A lack of weapon or item drops can make clearing difficult regardless of player skill.
Heavy Graphics Load
While the visuals using Unreal Engine are a strength, there’s also a risk of “performance drops depending on PC specs.” In particular, some worry about frame stability on lower-spec PCs and the Switch version.
Sameness from Repetition
With a design premised on repeat runs, some players may feel a “grind.” If stage variety or enemy diversity is lacking, it can quickly lead to fatigue.
| Concern | Details |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | May be too high for beginners |
| Story | Too fragmented to follow easily |
| Game Balance | Risk of feeling unfair due to RNG |
| Graphics | Beautiful but possible performance drops |
| Repeat Runs | Can feel grindy and lead to burnout |
These weaknesses will split opinions depending on player preferences. Especially regarding difficulty and balance, there’s a chance things improve with post-launch updates, so it’s important to check the latest info when deciding on a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions About Absolum
Even before release, Absolum has drawn many questions on social media and forums. Here we organize what players care about most in a Q&A format.
Q1: Does Absolum support Japanese?
A1: Yes. Official announcements indicate support for Japanese subtitles and UI. Even players not comfortable with English can enjoy the story and systems with peace of mind.
Q2: Can I play offline?
A2: Yes. Absolum is a single-player only action game and can be played offline without issue. An online connection is only required for initial authentication or updates.
Q3: What are the recommended specs?
A3: The recommended specs for the PC (Steam) version are as follows.
| Item | Recommended Specs |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 64-bit |
| CPU | Intel Core i7 / AMD Ryzen 7 or higher |
| Memory | 16GB RAM |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti / AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT or higher |
| Storage | 20GB or more free space |
While the graphics are beautiful, a certain level of hardware is required. Check that your PC meets the recommended specs for a comfortable experience.
Q4: Is there multiplayer or co-op?
A4: No. For now it’s single-player only, with no co-op or versus modes. However, you can still enjoy roguelite-style score-chasing.
Q5: How does it differ from other roguelites?
A5: It’s often compared to Hades and Dead Cells, but Absolum features a more serious, heavy atmosphere, emphasizing narrative in addition to high-tempo action.
In short, Absolum aims to deliver the genre’s signature addiction while keeping system-related concerns in check.
Settings, Environment, and Peripherals to Maximize Your Enjoyment
Absolum combines roguelite elements with fast-paced action, so your setup can greatly affect the experience. Here are recommended settings and environments.
Recommended PC Settings
Given the beautiful graphics, some environments may experience performance drops. For PC play, consider the following:
- Resolution: 1920×1080 (Full HD) recommended
- Frame rate: Lock to 60fps for stability
- V-Sync: ON to prevent tearing
- Graphics: Set shadows and effects to Medium for smoother performance
Peripherals for Comfort
As a high-action title, better input devices improve comfort.
| Peripheral | Reason |
|---|---|
| Gamepad (PS5 DualSense / Xbox Controller) | Intuitive control—especially helpful for dodges and combos. |
| Gaming Monitor (120Hz+) | Easier to track fast enemy movements. Response time matters. |
| High-Quality Headset | Fully experience the tense sound design for immersion. |
| SSD-equipped PC/Console | Shorter load times keep repeat runs snappy. |
Recommended Settings on Switch
The Switch version can be played in handheld mode, but considering battery life and controls, we recommend dock mode + controller. A wired connection also helps with faster downloads and updates.
Environment Tips
- Play in a darker room to accentuate the visuals
- A gaming chair helps reduce fatigue during long sessions
- Since repeat runs are expected, take breaks to maintain focus
In this way, Absolum isn’t just an action game—the experience changes significantly based on your setup. With the right gear, you’ll enjoy deeper immersion.
Must-Play if You’re Hyped for Absolum: Related Titles
If Absolum caught your eye, you’ll likely enjoy other games with similar “roguelite” and “high-difficulty action” appeal.
Hades
A roguelite action masterpiece by Supergiant Games. Its beautiful visuals and addictive combat have earned high praise, with many points in common with Absolum.
Dead Cells
A flagship side-scrolling roguelite. Its brisk combat and strategic weapon variety, like Absolum, create that “just one more run” loop.
Returnal
A PS5-exclusive roguelite TPS. The world changes with each death, and its tense bullet-hell combat echoes Absolum’s design philosophy.
Risk of Rain 2
A 3D evolution that ramps up speed. While it supports co-op (unlike Absolum), it shares the repeat-run core.
Darkest Dungeon
Turn-based but heavily focused on “despair and tension.” Fans of Absolum’s dark-fantasy vibe should especially enjoy this.
| Title | Feature | Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| Hades | Highly addictive roguelite action | Switch / PS5 / PS4 / PC |
| Dead Cells | Tempo-focused 2D roguelite | Switch / PS5 / PS4 / PC |
| Returnal | High-difficulty TPS-style roguelite | PS5 |
| Risk of Rain 2 | 3D roguelite with co-op | Switch / PS5 / PS4 / PC |
| Darkest Dungeon | Turn-based RPG focused on despair | Switch / PS4 / PC |
Players excited for Absolum will likely mesh well with these roguelite classics. Playing them ahead of release can deepen your appreciation of what Absolum aims to deliver.
Absolum vs. Hades: Which Should You Buy?
Both Absolum and Hades are action games with roguelite elements. While they share many similarities, there are notable differences. Here we compare them across “Gameplay,” “World,” “Difficulty,” “Content Volume,” and “Controls.”
Gameplay Comparison
Hades is a story-forward roguelite grounded in Greek mythology where you choose different weapons and boons each run. Absolum, on the other hand, leans darker and is designed with harsher reset mechanics. If you “want to enjoy story,” pick Hades; if you “crave tense, challenging runs,” pick Absolum.
World Comparison
Hades uses a clear, approachable mythological setting with abundant character dialogue and events. Absolum asks players to infer its world from fragments, appealing strongly to those who like to theorize.
Difficulty Comparison
Hades balances “tough but learnable,” while Absolum is characterized by “large penalties for single mistakes.” As a result, Hades suits a broader audience; Absolum skews toward hardcore players.
Content Volume Comparison
Hades offers plentiful dialogue and secrets for long-term play. Absolum also revolves around repeat runs, but with fewer story events, opinions may split on perceived “density” of play.
Controls Comparison
Hades features smooth, simple controls that are easy for beginners. Absolum requires mastering character-specific actions, demanding more technical play.
| Category | Absolum | Hades |
|---|---|---|
| World | Dark fantasy; fragmented narrative | Greek mythology; dialogue-driven |
| Gameplay | Harsh resets, high tension | Wide strategizing via weapons/boons |
| Difficulty | Hardcore gamer–oriented; high difficulty | Balanced for a wide audience |
| Content | Run-centric, dense loop | Rich events and secrets |
| Controls | Technical; mastery required | Simple and intuitive |
In conclusion, choose Absolum if you crave a darker world, lore theorizing, and challenge, and choose Hades if you value story and character interactions. Both are strong entries in the roguelite action space—pick based on your playstyle.
Social Media Buzz: Hopes and Fears
Absolum has generated significant pre-release attention on social media and forums. Reactions reflect a mix of excitement and concern.
Positive Reactions
- “The mix of a dark world and roguelite mechanics is perfect. Can’t wait for release!”
- “I love Hades and Dead Cells, so I’m sure I’ll be into Absolum too.”
- “Unreal Engine visuals look gorgeous. Might be great as a mood piece as well.”
- “Having Arc System Works handle the domestic release is reassuring.”
Concerns
- “Worried the difficulty might be too punishing.”
- “If RNG is too strong, it could feel unfair.”
- “Curious whether the Switch version will run heavy.”
- “The fragmented story might be hard to follow.”
Overall Impression
Overall, many expect a “hardcore roguelite worth mastering.” At the same time, there are strong concerns about difficulty, balance, and hardware performance—suggesting opinions may split across player demographics.
Based on social reactions, Absolum will likely earn high marks from “players who enjoy challenge”, while casual players may feel it’s unfair.
Is Absolum a Masterpiece or a Disaster? (Conclusion)
Absolum blends the appeal of roguelites with an immersive dark-fantasy atmosphere. For gamers who enjoy “challenge and a sense of accomplishment,” it could be a masterpiece. For those who dislike high difficulty and randomness, it may feel like a letdown.
We evaluated it across five parameters below.
| Category | Out of 10 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics | 9 | Weighty visuals leveraging Unreal Engine |
| Gameplay | 8 | High-replay roguelite design |
| Controls | 8 | Responsive and intuitive |
| Worldbuilding | 9 | Dark world with theory-friendly structure |
| Value | 7 | Price TBA; depends on content volume |
Total Score: 41 / 50 (82 / 100)
From this score, we predict Absolum to be “closer to a masterpiece for core players.” That said, it’s not for everyone; the experience may be tough for casual audiences.
In short, it’s a title with two faces: a masterpiece for players who enjoy tension and challenge, and potentially a miss for those seeking a light, casual experience.
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