Sifu - Review

[@SkillUp]

Thanks to Squarespace for sponsoring the video. If you want to set up your own website (and get a discount while doing it), hit this link for more info: www.squarespace.com/skillup

[@eki9970]

Skill up, could you start linking the music you use in the description, music recognizers don't work a lot of the times

[@-Scrapper-]

F

[@PenDreamt]

Grandpa Simpson yells! Shuriken becomes dentures.

[@grog_speed]

For me a game not being for everyone is a plus. tired of all those generic games with compromised design just to appeal to everyone. if people want a super easy mode to just experience the story they can watch a playthrough online. Games differ from movies in which the gameplay and sometimes challenge is part of the experience, which i believe is the case in this game, having difficulty or "acessibility" options would probably dilute the experience.

[@Taku_Zumorito]

Umm this game might be old but you should do a review for absolver 2017 im kinda Curious on your thoughts on it

[@ExperimentalProfessor]

Soooo, what I'm hearing from this review is that the speed running community is gonna love the shit out of this game

[@oj397]

yup basically that one will spring up from this game.

[@hafirenggayuda]

Brawler genre is the best dish for speedrunner.

[@francesco8000]

I can already see people doing a "beating Sifu at 20 years old" and "beating SIfu at 80 years old" runs in the next weeks.

[@Sid_Kill]

I'm actually very much interested in this game. And this review just convinced me to get this game immediately. I probably have to hold out for dying light for a while ig

[@joejohnson8966]

yep

[@kingswirly]

I just wanted to mention at 10:53 he makes a critic on the combat system that I don't think he fully understood. There are certain times the enemy can use a move called 'avoid'. The player can do so too, by holding block and flicking the analog stick down or up. It's something the game explains to you in the tutorial but most players forget about. The AI can't avoid while in the middle of your combo, only at the start or end of one. It's less of a problem with the combat and more of a problem with how it's explained, as most players (including myself) completely forgot this feature existed until reddit told us it made winning a lot easier. Most of the time Skillup used the parry instead of avoiding, so I'm pretty sure he just forgot it existed like the rest of us.

[@asdergold1]

Reminds me of everyone forgetting what you can do in the tutorial of Asura's Wrath.

[@boysinthehood9355]

that is what happens when u play a game once meant to be played a couple of times

[@DaMorg3]

@@boysinthehood9355 While I agree with you, I can’t blame Shillup here given the onslaught of games in early to mid Feb 2022.

[@BeetsBeetsBeetsBeets]

That's really helpful, thank you.

[@ZedAmadeus]

oh my god how the hell did you guys beat some of these bosses without using avoid

[@SA1N_YT]

Skill Up: “This game is not for everyone, only a very small niche.” All Skill Up Viewers: “What a breath of fresh air, exactly what I was hoping for.”

[@DroneCorpse]

SkillUp viewers: “haha Ralph, this obviously doesn’t apply to me, the protagonist of life” 3 hours into the game…”oh Fuck oh shit he was right but I have to commit to this since im out $50”

[@flaviocampos3581]

I just hope tutorial is good enough to introduce how the game works. If not, it will be kind of annoying to get used to. But once you do, looks like a really fun game. I played doom eternal on the hard mode, 0 lives = reset. Every time I had to restart, I did everything way way faster, enemies were easier because my mind and hands knew how to fight, and feels really good, until you are able to finish the challenge where you died and die in a harder one and start over again. It is really hard to restart on the same day, but after a little rest you go and fight. It is an interesting game loop. Sifu will probably be something like that. I need this game.

[@fatbroccoli8]

@@flaviocampos3581 yeah sounds like your kind of game, I like that too. The challenging thing that comes to my mind that you need the same mindset for is The Gauntlet trophy in Titanfall 2

[@RokushoTheRavager]

@@flaviocampos3581 Just for the sake of clarity, you say you started DOOM: Eternal on Hard, so do you mean Ultra-Violence (Too Young To Die, Hurt Me Plenty, Ultra-Violence, Nightmare, Ultra-Nightmare)? I ask because I started my playthrough on Ultra-Violence, which is something I don't typically do, and it provided just the right amount of challenge for me because I'm just naturally really good at DOOM 2016. Sure I lost a few lives here and there, but it wasn't until I hit the 4th or 5th Slayer Gate that all my lives dropped to zero and then it became a struggle.

[@shorafarahani]

Honestly.. not all his viewers. The thing is as a person who I know I would never touch this game, I wouldn't bother posting on the comments here... why waste my time with a lot of elitist calling me "shit at games" or "get gud"... it 's not worth it. also remember, the subset of gamers who actually watch these reviews are the VERY particular group this game is usually made for and not the real world (when was the last time a souls game sold more than 7mil copies?)

[@samtrapp7516]

Simply an excellent review. You're showcasing a great capacity to understand what a game is trying to be and what mindset will give a player the most enjoyment of it. You also just happened to take me from "no intention to play this" to "I guess I gotta finish this before February 25th"

[@Str8Faced]

praise the sun

[@ThePokestopPapi]

Elden Ring gonna go crazy

[@joshv12342]

That's exactly why he's one of my favorite reviewers. He's had more then one video where he's basically said it's a great game for x,y,z even if in the end he says he's not a fan.

[@chrisbellville6957]

Thats my hangup on really anything coming out soon id rather play through soulsbournes again ...i dont want anything taking my attention away from probably one of the best games of all time

[@filipecordeiro7109]

@@chrisbellville6957 one of the games im most hyped for, Monark is coming out on the 22nd and while ill buy it aswell i wont start it till im done with elden ring, theres some games that surpass simple hype, those that you just gotta play day 1 all the way through, and elden ring is definitely one of them cant wait for this beauty to come out

[@Flashlegz]

Played this game over and over and over, never got bored, you basically become the title of the game. Got the bad ending, looked at how to get the good ending and just thought 'impossible', beat it with the good ending the next day. Still play just to get younger ages and finish unlocking a few moves.

[@CHEFPKR]

Sifu seems a lot like Furi. It had one, very singular focus. And damn, when you beat a level of Furi did it feel GOOD.

[@ariamachi]

I really miss that game, furi was amazing. I wish they would of done a sequel

[@leoncer4719]

Oh yes! Very apt comparison, sir. Furi is certainly another title that is structured along this approach to gameplay.

[@TheGameBreakers]

I was thinking the same thing. That game is absolutely brutal

[@ninjadel2]

Was thinking about furi as well, which makes me sad cause as much as I loved it I sucked at it. So i'd assume I'd just drop this game before beating it.

[@Kaunte]

Loved Furi

[@tovbyte]

Despite this game being not for everyone, I really love how it’s just full of weird and interesting design choices which really force you into playing the game a certain way. Like no hard barriers, but if you don’t mind your age, checkpoints, etc. the game will just get harder and harder. I like that. Not every game needs to be like this, but I respect Sifu for doing it

[@spendsshanks6050]

So basically bad game design. Not really something to be praised

[@VolTheProducer]

@@spendsshanks6050 games getting harder as they go on isn't exactly revolutionary. The age system makes it so the odd mistake here or there won't hurt you very much as you will be able to bring the multiplier back to 0 relatively easily. But if you reach an area/enemy where you don't know their patterns your multiplier will snowball. So essentially, the better you are at the game, the more lives you have. Unconventional? sure. Objectively bad? No...

[@gunzales76]

@@VolTheProducer Yeah, wouldn't say that the game making you learn it's systems is a bad thing.

[@frankvandermerwe1487]

@@spendsshanks6050 Quiet.

[@Junya01]

@@spendsshanks6050 so basically you don't have any reading comprehension. Try reading OP's comment again, but slowly

[@VambraceMusic]

Props to the devs for sticking to their vision and not making a game, as described, at the start of the video. Im glad games like this exist.

[@ThatGamingGuyfromthe70s]

Having a clear vision and identity is becoming increasingly rare these days, it takes guts to stick rigidly to a game which could in effect alienate people. For those gamers who click with it will have a great time and a game they will remember.

[@socratese5]

Right but is it possible the game’s difficulty is tied to its short length? If that’s true then a conversation can be had about making a game extra hard to make up for short run time and whether thats really an important or desired artistic choice Or a way of stretching out an otherwise really short game that may have been made that way due to time and budget concerns. Im not saying thats what happened but its also something to consider. Its an interesting tough choice, do you make a game short and harder, possibly reducing your sales but remaining true to your vision and budget, or do you make it more accessible and longer and pull in more possible profit in the long run because more people enjoy it? Im probably not going to play it now because it seems short, hard, and repetitive but i am a big kung fu fan and i don’t mind SOME difficulty… so i wonder if thats really their goal To push away gamers like me or attract them. Its tough being a developer

[@danieljohn9257]

Couldn’t be a more perfect name for such a title.

[@theolddarksoul1129]

@schakalakadingdong 40 dollars is hefty?

[@robyfaraa4105]

@@theolddarksoul1129 it honestly is for what were getting

[@RandomPinoyGamer]

Hey man I know it's late. I've heard very little about Shill Up back in the late 2010s and only heard about you and started following after you guest starred in the Co-Optional Podcast. But this review is a prime example of why I will always truly watch every single review you do (barring games I don't want to be spoiled 100% of anything) purely because of how you phrase and write your content. Reason being there are so few 'reviewers' that treat the gaming artform that we love with the same amount of passion, care, and finesse as it deserves. Acknowledging different viewpoints and developer intentions, as well as it's target audiences even if you might not be it's intended demographic. You demonstrate what it truly means of being open to new ideas in a platform that is always growing and always evolving. And my dear sir, I hope this reaches you, but even if it doesn't I still hope you truly understand the value you bring to our community. Especially in this timeline without the ever honest Totalbiscuit. Truly I say it with all my heart, Thank you for your content and keep doing the lord's work.

[@P.vieRa_YT]

Yea man he puts a lot of thought and work into his reviews. I know the reviews are gonna be lengthy usually but they’re always worth watching.

[@makotokaz7538]

god I miss TB

[@nathanbateman4255]

Check out Tim Rogers

[@santoshpss]

"Shill Up"? "Lord's work"? Am I missing something here? The channel name is "Skill Up", and God, whatever it may be, would never allow unfairness to exist if it were benevolent, but clearly, unfairness exists, which means it's malevolent.

[@PS5Guy]

Skill Up has actually inspired me to utilize more of my ability of painting visions with a more vast vocabulary. It’s makes the story and review enjoyable to endure. His writing skills are undeniably attentive to detail which gives a casual gamer a feeling of deeper understanding due to his orchestration, presentation with also the accent at hand lol. The deeper you dive into Skill Up’s videos, the greater the treasures are that you discover. Hades was a game I most likely would’ve never discovered if it wasn’t for his reviews. I just so happen to be at the end of the video when he’s talking about writing. I’m a black guy from the hood lol. I’m gonna look into this sponsor and I apologize for this abrupt ending hopefully you can under and I’ll see you in the continuations of this comment. Thank you. Like and subscribe to skill up lol

[@AmateurHuman19]

You are the best reviewer in the game, and I appreciate your voice more than anyone's because of videos like this. Not only do you capture the essence of what it really is to play it, but you turn that into a nuanced discussion about difficulty in a way that I've never heard - but I've experienced it before. You truly understand and love (difficult) games, and hearing your take on them is nothing short of enlightening! Thank you for being a part of elevating how we talk about and appreciate games.

[@omegafoxtrot2380]

While I imagine this scared a lot of people off, this was exactly what I wanted to hear, playing a fun combat system until I perfect it is exactly what I do in games anyway

[@Chuckus]

Man of culture

[@Erehart]

Based

[@GuiiBrazil]

Exactly. Not all games needs to be for everyone, as any kind of entertaiment...

[@walalon8719]

Let’s wait for this Monday articles: “Sifu it’s the Dark Souls of Karate actions games.”

[@BlackWestCoast]

Yeeeeeeeeeeeees

[@Archflip]

I really enjoy how nuanced you are in your reviews of games and how the difficulty discussion is often framed too flatly. Demanding perfection through repetition is an entirely different thing than just demanding competence in execution. The gameplay loops are entirely different.

[@T1tusCr0w]

Way beyond the average KZbinr and reviewer is out schill up 👍🏻

[@udontknowme00]

To be totally honest I don’t think I would have the patience this game requires but that just means it’s not for me. Looks really cool and seems like what it WANTS to do, it does well, so I’m sure people who are into this kind of perfectionist experience will love it and that’s all that matters.

[@Ceece20]

I honestly think I will avoid this game because I don’t honestly like games that cater to my perfectionist side. It makes me feel like “I have to” rather than “I want to”. I want to get good. I want to beat the boss better. I don’t want to be counting and tabulating and revisiting because I didn’t do it perfectly the first time.

[@jackluffy7914]

I honestly really get y’all point but I’m the kinda person who looses say “fuck this dumbass game” and get right back to it 4 mins later just because I feel like this game will grab me in and hopefully it does and I honestly need to get into more games where I need to be perfect to win honestly

[@Spoopy_man]

Sigma mindset

[@samfisher2141]

you guys are prime examples on why games like get forgotten it's because you want everything holding your hand. And you guys want everything explained to you, difficultly in games are lacking is because people in this commet section Don't want to put ANY effort in getting better.

[@mytwosense9135]

@@samfisher2141 lol

[@minusInfinitenet]

As a big fan of sloclap's last game, Absolver, I'm really looking forward to this. While it does look to have difference combat system design it still looks to have the same passion but into it. Your review highlights all the feeling I get when I launch into Absolver, so I believe I'm going to sink a good chunk of time into this game.

[@sleppingbag7357]

Fucking loved Absolver, to bad not many peopol Play It now.

[@webster-qf6vv]

I have played both Sifu and absolver, haven't finished Sifu yet but man when I saw the first trailer for it I got so pumped. I'm really enjoying Sifu right now but I do agree that the it REALLY does ask/ expect you to master the combat

[@iio58]

I love your summary from 17:48 to 18:55 - and from what my friend tells me, it rings very true. I love the last few words re “not a bad game, but a really good version of a game that just isn’t for them”. Very well worded 👍🏻

[@idkyaface4659]

As a kid growing up, I’d go through every single Batman fighting challenge in every single game till I got them 3 star and then I started trying to do the levels without missing a combo and then I started trying to do them without being hit and so on….this game looks like it’s right up my alley

[@TWRehab]

You've felt it your whole life haven't you? Like a splinter in your mind, something is not right with the world... You are the one Neo.

[@Itachi-xi9sl]

I’m playing bat Arkham city and that’s what I’ve been trying to do for the campaign challenges! Although from my experience playing absolver, Sifu does look far more challenging

[@Cyruseh]

@@Itachi-xi9sl that games so much fun

[@weaverquest]

These devs just integrated what a lot of us instinctively strive for into their gameplay structure. While playing games like God of War or Last of Us 2 I sometimes restart a level even if I beat it successfully just because it didn't feel good enough and that I felt like I could do a lot better with what I have learned up to that point.

[@chillhour6155]

Stop making feel old

[@RedShadowOfSaturn]

Very interesting take, one I'm sure will be, unfortunately, buried among the "sifu awesome" "sifu sucks" takes. Kinda seems to fit into the same niche that Ghostrunner fits into. The entire time you described this, it reminded me of what people of thought of that game, the level of repetition, the short term unlocks/progression, the reasonably short length of the full game experience, the HIGH difficulty curve (that will likely keep some people away). I'm glad to hear this wasn't a "bad" game, though, just different. And for a PS console exclusive...seems to fit into that niche as well. Not all their exclusives are widely appreciated by every single gamer, but many of them still do some things that are different and thinking outside the box in some way or another. Look at Days Gone. Many file that in the "bog standard open world zombie blah blah blah" bin, but there were a lot of well done elements that cause people to want a sequel desperately. Really cool that Sifu hits DIFFERENT. We need more DIFFERENT in the industry.

[@MyManJFKTV]

To do things differently is the ballsiness I appreciate in any form.

[@hendrickstrauss3311]

I'm just glad this is not platform exclusive. Cannot wait to jam this on PC next weekend. Hope SloClap can revisit Absolver at some point if Sifu is very successful!

[@RedShadowOfSaturn]

@@hendrickstrauss3311 Yeah, by exclusive, I just meant console vs console. Even as a longtime Playstation fan, given current circumstances, I'm DELIGHTED that Sony is branching out their console exclusives to PC. I have an Xbox One and a Switch, so console exclusives don't really affect me much, but allowing for more people in the gaming space to enjoy stuff exclusive to ONE console, that's really great and should be celebrated, so...enjoy!

[@Ceece20]

Honestly, this game would have benefited a lot from Gamepass. It feels like a niche game that will scare people off of buying it at full price, but it would be perfect on Gamepass where that fear wouldn’t happen.

[@godofchaoskhorne5043]

This is a ps exclusive?... Aww man.. This isn't my type of game. But I feel its so important that sony continues to support games like this etc and I'm worried that games like this selling bad is going to change their direction. But if I'm to buy an exclusive I guess I'd rather get Kenna or something. Anyway this month is elden ring month

[@karellan1978]

This was the first review that I’ve read for this game, and I imagine it’s one of the very few that would actually help me understand what this game is. Thanks for doing reviews like this!

[@elyzium]

How did you "read" a video review exactly?

[@Independenceday95]

You read the video with subtitles on?

[@franlovelsimic8421]

I respected you a lot but now even more. As someone who owns a blog and writes about music, games and films, I wholeheartedly support your suggestions! Chase your passion guys and gals, I am! It's not easy yet the reward far outweigh the struggle. The people I met and "met", all the connections that I built all over the world would not be possible have I not my made my blog. And it makes complete sense that you're writing a lot and this is evident by its quality. I am sure you had many extremely frustrating blockades but when you finish something and feel and know it's good, it's an amazing feeling. And that's not even mentioning the feedback which you get plenty of. You deserve where you are man and all that was hard work (and imprisoned Austin) and that's awesome. Who here remembers Lamon Gamon? I sometimes forget because how used I got to Shill's quality. Maybe this is a rambly and perhaps too kissy comment but yeah, truly mean it. Great review, doubt I'll buy Sifu anytime soon, too busy rock and stoning and sucking at Hitman 2 but I am glad it exists. Niche games are always refreshing and I would say very much needed these days.

[@ShiningEyeBrigade]

Such a well balanced review of a difficult type of game to review. This is one of the many places SkillUp shines: his ability to see the heart of what the review should center on and lean into that and so clearly explain it. Where other reviews may talk about the cons of the difficulty, I expect few if any will be able to explain and do justice to the pros of the devs design choices, all while still keeping it clear that this game will not be for many. One of the many great lines that expresses this well: “I often like games like this when looking at them in the rear view mirror…” and then explaining the frustrations with this game are still there for him, but his appreciation of the design is blooming as he thinks about it. The review is not only useful re: whether to buy the game, it allows me to appreciate the game’s design choices even when it might not be the right game for me.

[@gondalasatvarsh5892]

I just want to say that I really appreciate your reviews man. While I might watch IGN review and maybe Gamespot too for just the final scores. I watch your review completely from the beginning to the end, because you convey everything a game does in an interesting way and you are always consistent with your opinions. I feel like your reviews and takes generally comes across as more experienced and mature too. If you do not like something or just bad at something you straight up admit it as your fault instead of holding it against the game and giving it a negative review (Like IGN did with alien isolation 6/10 lol). I am super excited for your Horizon Forbidden West review! Thank you for being a reliable source of gaming info.

[@chengbryan2435]

Took the words right out of my mouth

[@Red-ev8ls]

You take ign seriously?? 😭 and gamespot with they’re iconic exaggerated swagger of a black teen

[@Hekk.]

Take average scores from the sites you mentioned, then realize that they are getting paid for reviews by game publishers - and then you will get as to why scores from sites like ign or metacritic are meaningless.

[@125kmph]

I'd recommend that you watch IGN's and Gamespot's reviews entirely rather than watch for the final scores, or not at all. Sometimes they make good points, sometimes they make bad ones, but you might agree with some of their points regardless of whether you agree with their score, which is a purely arbitrary rating.

[@MEDzZ3RO]

Easily up there with the best reviewers around. My go to guy.

[@jasongarman]

This review is a great example of why you're my favorite reviewer. It does such an incredible job of articulating what the game is trying to do and how well it does it, rather than just "how fun is it?"

[@mindsoulbody]

Well I heard similar reviews on other reviewer videos and explaining how "you're my favorite reviewer." Good for you. However it's always wise to watch several reviewers AND gameplay before you buy/try the game. Over the course of years, after thousands of games, one thing I learned is, review might be good (a way of presenting something), but that may not suit with your psyche or idea of "good" or "fun" or "suitable" game. Some of the best review I've seen of games and then realized I need to play it, only to realize an hour later how boring it was. It boils down to experiencing the game. Review will get you only so far. However multiple reviews are thus required. You need to see the story from multiple perspective. AND then watch multiple gameplay videos. I love Skillup, but so I do watch video of Civvie, Indemus, Force, JohnWolfe and many others to get a general idea of something. Be careful of watching just one review to get an idea of "what the game is trying to do and how well it does it, rather than just "how fun is it?"" Also fun fact, your sentence contradicts the last part. If the game is NOT doing the things well, it would not be fun to begin with eventually (bugs, problems etc will ruin the game). So yeah... My two cents.

[@CasepbX]

This game isn't for everyone and that's fine, awesome really. I wish way more games were like this. Don't get me wrong I think gaming in general should be for all those that wish to partake, but not every game needs to be made for all, that just ruins the game in many ways.

[@colonelvector]

This is a great opinion, could not agree more

[@lordxmugen]

CasePB heres the issue i have with a comment like that. Wheres my other "Kung Fu style third person beat em ups"? Oh there arent any others made today? Oh well gee, i guess thats a shame for me then that my only choice is a mediocre Souls-like that doesnt FEEL like a good proper kung fu game that takes proper advantage of the genre like Absolver kinda did. But i guess thats MY FAULT for expecting something good when the trailer looked MILES BETTER than what the end product being. my mistake.

[@Ceece20]

I agree. I wish this was a Gamepass game though as it would allow more people to get a feel for it without scaring people off with the price of a full game. One advantage I believe Gamepass has is it allows people to explore games that aren’t meant for everyone. It allows you to find that niche you never knew you liked.

[@alfredoamendez4299]

I think the same way, Monster Hunter is hated by a lot of people for it's combat system and progression, but i love it, and that's fine, there's something for everyone.

[@wonkabars6982]

Totally agree with this take. Too many forms of entertainment are taking this “one size fits all” and “made with a global audience in mind” approach to their projects and it only ends up distilling the original vision of said idea.

[@al3rgen]

...and that is why you are my FAVOURITE reviewer. This review is something else, is on another level, I've learn about Sifu everything i needed to know, and I know now this is not a game for me. Good or even great game for some, but not for me. Thank you and respect. I don't need to write I love your reviews (but I did:P).

[@nathanbateman4255]

Some notes: the attacks you refer to as unblockable actually are blockable, they are just delayed and have tighter timings. Only grabs are unblockable. Also, in you’re gameplay it seems that you’re under using the stationary dodge which actually heals your structure and focus. The R2 dodge is better for mobility than actual evasion. I never really had problems with the camera, and love games that give you flexibility with its camera. BotW being my fave. Loved the review, thanks! The game reminds me of some of my favourite arcade games with some accommodating features.

[@v3u22fo2n3]

Bro didnt know how to avoid or to parry correctly smh. I guess this was as far as skill up could go

[@Plague_Doc22]

This game just makes me want another sleeping dog even more...most underrated open world game. The combat was fun for the entire thing.

[@shinodamasaru7945]

Sleeping dog + Sekiro = Sifu

[@spendsshanks6050]

@@shinodamasaru7945 Nah Sekiro and sleeping dogs actually had a good amount of content

[@zuriyel5368]

Hopefully it'll wake Square Enix up and get a studio to develop Sleeping Dogs 2.

[@arthanor9631]

Looks like a game that had a solid direction, knowing that they wanted to convey a more realistic take on close combat. Respect for not pandering to the mainstream time waster and producing an active game with an identity.

[@DocHuckleberry09]

Always appreciate how deep and well thought out all your reviews are Ralph. I think I might wait on this one because of the camera control, bad camera control or limited camera control can ruin an experience for me.

[@spencerjones7985]

Man this is a great review. I’m one of the people who would probably get bored by the repetition and having to learn combos but I can see exactly how good this game is especially because of the way you framed the review. Good shit Skill Up

[@Cie_Kite]

The side scrolling shot at 13:43 immediately reminded me this famous scene from Old Boy ^^

[@patadeurso]

This is speed running material. It's going to be great to see someone break this game in a GDQ event

[@OMGclueless]

I hope it doesn't really get broken. 40 minutes of high-octane high-precision kung fu in speedrun format would be *chef's kiss*.

[@OMGclueless]

@KoPHuLLloH I have hopes! The game's structure suggests that breaking the shit out of one level's geometry wouldn't necessarily break the whole game. For example the Titanfall 2 speedrun is packed with great high-precision parkour and FPS gameplay despite some of the levels being completely cheeseballed.

[@LucasOe]

@@OMGclueless If it gets broken just watch an all bosses or glitchless category. It's not like you're forced to watch broken speedruns; there are plenty of categories.

[@johnstacey3927]

This was an excellent review. Love the fact that skill up dosen't review a game as a black or white piece of media. But, as an experience presented to the player. I love high execution game. This simple structure with tough combat is something I seek in a lot of games. It's the underlying principle behind rouge likes. And well, behind classic 80' games as well. This I can say, is definitely a game that represents why nes game were hard. The design behind most retro games was skill based repetition. Thanks for the review skill up and selling me on this one.

[@JosieJOK]

Wow, this review raised my hopes and dashed them at the same time! The theme of this game sounds great-the pursuit of perfection is what I try to do with games (in my limited capacity) anyway. The leveling progression is wonderfully inventive, and yet entirely makes sense. And I love what I saw of the art style! But by the time I got to the end of the review, I was forced to confront the fact that I do not have the reflexes required for this game. It looks awesome, though, so I look forward to watching other people playing it on KZbin! On edit: thanks for the encouragement, but when SkillUp mentioned that some people with particular disabilities are likely to be shut out of this game, yeah: he was talking about people like me! 😝

[@DragoonCenten]

Just play it bro. You’ll have fun anyway.

[@murilovitale3135]

The first time i played Sekiro, i felt the same as you. It took me at least 70 hours to play through the entire game, now i have double that and i'm on NG+7. Just play it

[@matthewchinmingwei6721]

I think that your worry is fair, and we internet strangers can't judge what a situation we don't fully know. Only you have experience with it. But I would still strongly encourage you to try and see what happens. Sometimes great things are achieved not because someone great stood up and solved them easily, but because someone ordinary was willing to keep trying until they found a solution.

[@meldmagic]

🐻 Man just needs a Red Bull.

[@gamerinatrance3618]

@@yellowcard8100 You are aware literally everyone's body breaks down in some way at some point right? Essentially we'll all fall into the handicapped territory.

[@chrisgoods]

Cracking review.. you've nailed it. I've just finished and platinumed it... definitely a high challenge that won't be for everyone. Your closing words hit the nail on the head "...really good version of a game that just isn't for them".

[@freddiecooper3269]

Few other reviews didn’t really persuade me into getting the game. However on watching this I can say I was definitely swayed. Gave a great breakdown of what the games like and after buying it i gotta say I’m loving it.

[@ericsaari2901]

So that right there is an amazing review. Talking about the death mechanic in that way explains perfectly how the game is difficult, and how the discussion of that difficulty is quite a bit different than the discussion of difficulty in other games. Other reviews I have seen have completely glossed over this, but it is really important to highlight it. I'm not sure I have the reflexes anymore to work through this game. Where other reviews highlight the difficulty, here it is an actual consideration. It would probably take me even a little more replaying than, say, someone still finely tuned for online fighting games (I used to play fighting games in arcade tournaments, so I am not unfamiliar, I just don't think I could do that anymore, either). I may still get it because I love that as a concept. One thing it appears to have needed though is much more given to you on those replays. I would have enjoyed unlockable outfits, more than one shortcut that doesn't save time but just brings you along another way etc.

[@owenabbiss3443]

this is the only sifu review i've seen that i actually liked. awesome video.

[@rhodan74]

A game specifically made for a specific audience and excelling at that is what I get out of this review. Imo that should be celebrated and is one of the best ways this genre (gaming) can stay interesting for years to come. When games like this click and you find yourself saying "this is exactly for ME" (and maybe I didn't even know it was) then it gives you enjoyment and satisifaction I can't get in any other game. So many games throw so much shit on the wall hoping some of to stick to any kind of customer that they sometimes feel hollow and lifeless.

[@bl-ni1iu]

Just sucks that it's exclusive to one system

[@idglet9565]

@@bl-ni1iu It's on PC too if you're interested.

[@kostasspirou1010]

@@bl-ni1iu it's on 2 consoles (PS4/PS5) and PC

[@Nytraz]

This is my biggest issue with AAA games nowadays. With a couple exceptions, most of them feel like they just go down a checklist and try to get as many things shoved in to chase trends and be able to proclaim how much content they have. Wide as an ocean, shallow as a puddle. It's no surprise that my most favorite titles these last few years have been from AA and indie developers, as they are more willing to get weird, try new things, and focus on one or two ideas and doing them very well. Maybe that will change in the coming years, but I wouldn't cross my fingers.

[@rhodan74]

@@Nytraz Yeah, and that's the problem with AAA. High investment brings a high adversion to risk. On the other hand customers (or a vocal subset of them) seem to demand "content" for the sake of it, e.g. they equate "game length/amount of features" with "value". Then big companies try to raise prices and introduce new monetization without changing much about their products besides "more graphics". It's hard to straddle that line. I hope that smaller studios can rise up to fill that large gap between absolute incompetence and overblown hype. To be honest, I think it's gonna get worse before it gets better, e.g. "the metaverse"

[@dashman609]

The ending add read about writing really hit me. For like a month I’ve been working on a website where I publish gaming articles, predominantly reviews. These efforts have been for 2 reasons. 1 so I can practice writing, 2 so I can organize my thought because my mind rambles sometimes for hours about a game and writing allows me to have it all in one place, so when I think about a game I can point to the article and say, there, that’s what I think. Anyways just thank you skillz man for being likely the most influential gaming personality on KZbin (for me). I appreciate it a lot. (I’m still in high school by the way so it’s all just for fun) I have also infact made some video reviews, but I do really prefer writing because I can get the stuff done at school in class.

[@nomanis2cool]

Only KZbinr doing it to make me want to pursue my dreams and procrastinated goals of writing & making a blog, from an intro to a sponsor. I aspire to write as well as you, however not in gaming! Thanks Skill Up :)

[@I_am_ENSanity]

The speed runs of this game are going to amazing.

[@idglet9565]

They already exist for the game's demo, and they're already cracked as hell.

[@TheGintama86]

I hope they just dont spam throwing items at thugs to win

[@Foogi9000]

somebody already beat the game in 22 minutes and got the secret ending.

[@gdhuertas07]

0:26 Actually, I imagined (and hoped for) a game that was closer to Sekiro. Something punishingly brutal but rewarding. So this review gives me a lot of hope!

[@r3dtext]

I can see this game having a hardcore niche on twitch "sifu no hit run".

[@jackluffy7914]

This is honestly one of my favorite reviews instead of him just saying “it makes you feel like a Kung fu master….6/10” he Acknowledges that many people may not like it and that’s ok this review was very Unique in a way for a unique game and I respect that

[@TheDarkblue57]

I bought this game expecting some juicy scallops. 0/10

[@Mike_TNVol4Life]

I'm here bc Jake Baldino shouted you out in one of his Sifu vids. Can't believe I've never heard of this channel!!

[@ZedAmadeus]

So cool seeing the Oldboy Hall, and it looks like one of the boss encounters in that garden area is inspired by I Saw The Devil. I LOVE THE REFERENCES, IT'S SO FUN

[@ZedAmadeus]

OH AND LADY SNOWBLOOD HOLY SHIT

[@Botnen.]

"Babe wake up, a new SkillUp video released!"

[@reka10]

That's a keeper.

[@MegaCazzam]

Reality is it’s just Siri or Alexa 😂

[@diegofigueredo4745]

The dream...

[@CARTMANBRAWH]

Lebay

[@mydemon]

Talking to your Dakimakura is TIGHT

[@duceanima2069]

I'm really happy to see this, we live in times where every game tries way too much to cater to everyone. Everything is kinda the same nowadays, I remember playing Absolver and totally loving it even tho I kinda sucked at it. was actually the only game I ever pre-ordered and didn't regret it. People often don't know what they really want until they get their hands on it. With all games being pretty much copies of one another it's really difficult to find something that actually enriches your gaming experience instead of just sucking you in and turning you in to fanboy over time or just shit talking the game. Although I must say that I am delighted to see more and more indy games coming out that are of a great scale and really on point with delivering a unique experience. It's really crazy how much gaming in general has changed over the years. I'm looking forward to playing this and I truly hope that more people pick this up and give it a chance with an open mind.

[@gamerinatrance3618]

There's actually quite a lot of unique games that are innovative, most of them are in the indie space though. Of course a lot of AAA games feel similar because they need to make back their ballooning development costs and capitalism rewards brand power playing things safe. That's not really about making things appeal to everyone because that's impossible.

[@eltonko]

Nitpick: wax on, wax off is karate. Sifu is kungfu.

[@tonsofregrets258]

This is a love poem to dedicated martial artists. Just like in practice, you'll be beaten. You will lose. You'll struggle and recount all the ways you could counter that *ONE* technique that always gets you. And once you get through it, you will find another that you need to work on. Definitely gonna get this. If not to at least continue the mental training after I come home from the dojo every week haha!

[@Saith516]

enemies randomly deciding to perfect-dodge/be-invulnerable for no reason? that's a pass for me until they patch that out. you're just begging to be frustrated if you play this as it is. reminds me of the god-awful elizabeth fight in ninja gaiden 2. just...no.

[@mg2jj]

Your writing, thoughtful perspectives, and passion for gaming are why I’ve subscribed and come back, starting with your Warframe videos. Unscripted is lazy, subpar, and will simply not amount to the work you do. Thanks, dude.

[@Khaos-Thanathan]

Thanks for the review. Was interested in Sifu before, but I guess it isn't my kind of game. I don't mind difficulty, but camera problems and badly telegraphed unblockables just make a game unfair instead of just difficult. Well... At least makes me save 40 bucks, so thanks again for the review.

[@Westpw]

He didn't say they were badly telegraphed. They just aren't obviously telegraphed. According to him and other reviews you have to memorize the combos that precede unblockables. That doesn't make it bad, it makes it difficult but fair.

[@Aleksanteeri]

at 11:41 I wanna point out that there are NO unblockable attacks other than grabs that flash yellow when an enemy executes it. Some attacks canot be blocked by holding block but they can be perfect parried by pressing block at the right time, in which case your character will not get damaged but will still lose some "stamina" however, perfect parrying will make sure that you are *NEVER* stunned even if your bar is red. That means that you can parry almost everything, but only some attacks will grant you a punish window, and if you want to punish your enemy on these attacks you have to dodge them. But if you perfect parry them, you avoid any damage, that goes for all attacks that you seemingly have to dodge like sweeps or fly kicks or whatever, you can just parry all of them.

[@Nichhhhhhh]

I hear your point about the camera but I loved that the closeness of the camera placement to the character produced a cinematic experience and felt more immersive to me. Great review as always :) Also wanted to add that all attacks are blockable, except for some which can be dodged - can only think of throws/grapples. Just gotta watch the structure bar.

[@thedofflin]

I'm a perfectionist so this sounds rad. I'm so glad it has zero RPG stat stuff, but purely depends on you learning how to get better - something missing in a lot of single-player adventures and only really possible in roguelikes and soulslikes. If this game wasn't so hyped already, I definitely could've seen this becoming a cult hit.

[@Zarcaster]

cmiiw but ain't soulslike got rpg stuff too?

[@kuze5723]

@@Zarcaster in my eyes while you increase your stats in soulslikes, most of them still have the solf-cap of skill needed to progress (even if slightly lowered by the stats increasing) like certain attacks one-shotting you no matter what hp you have etc. so it's still satisfying to learn, since you can't just brute force encounters when overstatted. I feel like the level system in Dark Souls for example is just a way of softening the difficulty a bit, but you can still finish the game with basic equipment if you're good enough.

[@baseddeity7193]

It’ seems returnal-esque in that regard!

[@DaniBearID8]

The way you discuss difficulty especially at the end is a serious level up. Well done!

[@DexterManning]

seems like its really fun but I really don't feel like investing so much time into a game like this, Returnal really burnt me out with that

[@kobuseksteen411]

I feel ya, I got so little time to game these days, that I can't afford to repeat the same level over and over just for mastery's sake.

[@chrisb.9083]

And returnal was so easy in comparison.

[@speedracer2please]

Yes, I enjoyed this repetitive game trend for maybe 2 games, but I'm long past done with it. It's like we're back in the SNES era.

[@MajorasLullaby]

If gaming is your hobby, why not try get better at it, thats the fun in playing games in general, be it video games or sports. Also 10hs in a game is really not that much.

[@donextmedonextme4351]

@@kobuseksteen411 same here, cant afford to be stuck for very long on some game level anymore

[@CanyonsandCrests]

I really appreciate how you clearly set expectations for the experience a game will provide in your reviews. Your choice to step away from your usual title format was a clear indicator that you value providing information to your viewers, rather than acquiring views. Well done sir.

[@adpbobcat]

Your review sold me on this game. I've never played a souls or rogue-like game, this is my first. Currently on the third boss. I hope I don't give up bc this game is genius!

[@thmistrapillay1811]

I feel this is exactly what I thought it would be, an awesome, execution heavy(hopefully), 3rd person combat fighter where perfection is the goal

[@thmistrapillay1811]

@Jackoftrades well the Batman Arkham Games combat system is really fun and awesome and 3rd person, but they are not execution heavy at all to be fair. Still like 'em though

[@dprice2813]

Brilliant review, objective, comprehensive and the chat around accessibility for people with disabilities is an important eye opener, personally.

[@samfisher2141]

you mean those same people who want Elden Ring to change quote-unquote accessibility nonsense

[@protectbabysif]

You make a great point. These types of games I need to enjoy while I'm young and have the reflexes to get me through the demanding button mastery. One day there will be a super technical game that looks sick, but I simply won't have the physical prowess to keep up with it. Fantastic review, you've sold me on the game

[@Daniel__Nobre]

This! Also it’s just bad for people with disabilities. And you can also add having to deal with a job (or multiple ones..), family, etc.. it’s not like you are even denying an experience to those who want a difficult path - you are just adding options for the rest. Everyone wins.

[@iancasleton6356]

Shit just become a parent and take your kids Adderall pills-- youll be messing people up at 60 while geeking.

[@LordOfAllusion]

I appreciate how philosophical Skillup has gotten about the design and theme of this game. It’s not about showing you a fun time for 8-10 hours, it’s about showing you what it takes to master martial arts and a lot of people will miss that, so thanks for pointing it out. I’m not sure if this review pushed me more toward Sifu or away from it, but I feel like I at least know what I am choosing if I take it.

[@Manas09rai]

I got this game despite my reservations that you rightfully pointed out regarding its difficulty, but something was kinda just egging me on to get this game because I am a huge fan of martial arts cinema and have always longed for a game like this (Yakuza games offer this as well, but I was looking for something more game focused than narrative focused). I gave in and bought the game not knowing whether I would like it or not. I am not into soulsborne games, I usually avoid difficult games in general because they seem to instill fear in me more than they challenge me. After beating the second level at age 27 after multiple tries. Sifu ended being the game I didn't know I wanted. The way the difficulty is crafted and the progression system is designed has so much depth, and the core combat is so satisfying that replaying the levels never felt tedious to me, and the added shortcuts were very forgiving, and by having 5 levels, I felt like it was the perfect amount, I never felt overwhelmed by the challenge as I usually do with a lot of other challenging games. I am glad you wrote the review the way you did, gave me the perfect expectation going into this game.

[@frenkzors]

Its a sad feeling knowing that a game I was looking forward to, as a fan of the kung-fu theme, is made specifically and intentionally in a way that means I cant ever play it :/ And unfortunately, I know im not alone in this, even if a lot of other people(gamers) dont tend to really think about people like us. Appreciate the excellent review ofc :)

[@heffy6682]

What do you mean people like us?

[@Murdstone12]

This comment is quite vague, can you elaborate on that? How can you not play the game and what do you mean by "people like us"?

[@frenkzors]

@@heffy6682 Gamers with disabilities. Playing these games, that dont include accessibility options, is either very difficult or basically impossible a lot of the time.

[@frenkzors]

@@Murdstone12 I dont think its vague, its just that maybe youre not keeping tabs on whats going on with accessibility in gaming right now. Thats fine, dont get me wrong, not everyone has to keep up to date on this sort of stuff. SkillUp did mention it in the review, which I appreciate tremendously tho. But yeah, some games (esp. certain mechanics / gameplay loops) that dont include accessibility options are either very difficult to even play or even practically impossible. Thats outside of the "difficulty"in the more traditional sense, as in how much health the enemies have and that sort of stuff.

[@Murdstone12]

@@frenkzors Didn't want to assume anything so it was best I asked. The problem was pretty vague up until I saw your reply to @Hyde about the issue of disability and lack of accessibility which answered my question on further elaboration. Sorry you have to deal with that and that truly sucks. I'm glad there are people out there making certain options accessible. Xbox's accessibility controller and binding options for example. Just wish there was more of it.

[@nicholaslalonde2117]

Sifu was certainly on my radar, however I am more than willing to wait until the physical version to release in May so that I may bask in its glory then. Phenomenal review as always SkillUp.

[@PantsaBear]

This is one of your best reviews, and you've done a lot of good stuff. Well done Skill-Up, the appeal of this game was really well articulated and very resonating.

[@legateelizabeth]

"You get older every time you die. When you kill a boss your first thing will be doing that boss again to do it better." That's kind of cool, I'm on board with thi- "Oh and you have to do the entire level again." Well that's hard pass from me.

[@Raspberryspy]

Sifu is SO. MUCH. FUN. I always like the concept of you, the player, leveling up, rather than your character.

[@scottydavenport5215]

The fact that the title of this video didn't say "I recommend" or "I don't recommend" made me very worried going into this review. 😂

[@cinematicpassages8884]

THIS...totally!

[@Kage-jk4pj]

Means its going to be a mixed review.

[@scottydavenport5215]

@@Kage-jk4pj indeed.

[@JamesSmith-sw3nk]

I no longer play games that are difficult simply for difficulty's sake. I have little patience for tedious games. Give me a great story and game play that doesn't require absolute perfection. I suppose this is a great game if you are in your early 20's and live on Mountain Dew and Ritalin.

[@roger2599]

This is a singleplayer game that I can truly say Skill-Based, with the likes of fromsoft games

[@TehDMCmaniac]

Games like Furi, focused singularly on a vision? This is what games are most brilliant at for me. There is so much artistry done to create a single game, when all of it is focused on one -- and only one -- concept... that's a powerful experience. I already know I'll be inspired.

[@TheFool87]

In this game your character doesn't level up, YOU THE PLAYER level up.

[@labranehit7687]

Yes that is exactly it. Even the upgrades you unlock you need to learn how to use them properly otherwise you will forget them entirely and they will not help you.

[@argytube4595]

I was refreshing this channel's page like crazy when I saw that reviews dropped for this game...20 seconds in... I'm not disappointed

[@KhaosKontroller]

Quite unfortunate for me. I get easily frustrated with repetition and high difficulty. I was quite excited for this, but it might not be for me.

[@ChoJun69]

Same, i understand the concept and why its great to some, but for me this is sadly a pass.

[@jaycub4711]

You have to find satisfaction in the combat. Every impact of every hit has to feel good to you.

[@Ceece20]

@@jaycub4711 I find satisfaction in Dark Souls and stuff. I don’t find satisfaction in repeating levels. I want to feel actual progress.

[@jaycub4711]

@@Ceece20 Yeah I get it. I just think the combat looks so satisfyingly impactful. The progress is noticed by you, the player. I do think it has legitimate progress because, there's an end.

[@slinkbradshaw8674]

Yeah I'm probably gonna skip. Never got into games like this and the Souls series where extreme difficulty is the main selling point

[@usscolumbia6149]

Def sounds like a game I'll enjoy, but I was hoping it had a combat system like absolver, where you could switch between a few different stances for different scenarios. Still looks like a blast tho

[@notimeforcreativenamesjust3034]

Nah its more like tekkens

[@fatbroccoli8]

@@notimeforcreativenamesjust3034 how is it like Tekken?

[@mantea.]

you don't know How I love your channel this is literally doing my day. If my day is bad (which it almost always is) then you somehow manage to make it good, hope to see you years more ahead.

[@JuliusCaesar103]

I knew what your take was gonna be just by the title of the video. Tremendous video, you even put thought behind the title of a video review!! Edit: God Hand being one of my absolute favorites, I think this one might just be right up my alley.

[@elipetrou9308]

This sounds actually interesting and something I’d enjoy instead of a generic fighting game, I like hard games and the art design so this looks cool Okay guys, by genetic fighting game I mean button mashing, janky melee games that you play when you have nothing else to do

[@DroneCorpse]

What is an example of a ‘generic’ fighting game in your mind?

[@RuffWarl0ck]

What exactly is a "generic fighting game" to you?

[@manbat4582]

button mashing is a criticism for yourself, not a game. Because every game will have it but it's up to you whether to exploit that or not

[@elipetrou9308]

@@manbat4582 no offence, but that’s just plain wrong. Many games, especially ones without difficulty settings won’t let you mash your way through. I’m not sure why people are getting upset, I didn’t even name specific games that I think qualify as generic fighting games.

[@elipetrou9308]

@James Black oh my bad, yeah I mean games with shit combat like avengers, AC, etc… not exactly fighting games but games with bad melee combat

[@jasminedragon3315]

I’d be playing this game too if the people over at PlayStation would let me install it! I bought the deluxe edition and I still can’t play it, a lot of people can’t play it either

[@jasminedragon3315]

@@mog_3825 that’s not why, check Sifus Twitter they don’t know what the issue is yet

[@indigoblack396]

This was really interesting! Honestly, I'd really love to see that aging mechanic be introduced in some rpg games and be reworked in order to fit that different genre of game. It's very interesting and would add a whole new layer to the game that would really emphasize that your actions have consequences. You wouldn't be an unstoppable machine; you would be a human trying to make their way through the world on a journey.

[@allenluis6995]

I think its gonna be frustrating ot work in sifu because its short and the combat is fun most rpg is long and half ass combat

[@sergiocolautti]

If you are looking for a complex martial art game without the death -> age loss Sifu has, I can highly recommend Absolver from the same developers. A gem of a game.

[@lebronsmith29]

Amazing review!!!! It's astonishing how well you captured what this game is about. This is why you're one of my favorite reviewers...keep up the good work.

[@Djisso]

I really enjoy the way you perform your reviews, especially with this one. I do agree with the fact that Sifu does not fall into the usual “Recommend/Do Not Recommend” format as it is already not for the casual people seeking a casual experience. I cant wait to dive into the game ( especially that hallway fight reminiscing of Old Boy

[@markknight7429]

I wasn't expecting this to be another repetitive difficult game, so I'm glad I saw this review before i spent money on it. It was a great video and you just saved me money, so thanks!

[@patrickoakley7890]

Yeah better stick to LEGO games, no challenge there.

[@frenkzors]

@@patrickoakley7890 Why did you feel the need to be mean and snarky to a person for not being into a game thats difficult to play or finish?

[@fantomeduchateaux8136]

I get the topic of accesibility and I applaud accesibility option (I myself I'm grateful of interface modification options that allow me to change constrast and size, ubisoft game for example are so damn bright or dark, lightning in a mess for me). However, as you also said, sometimes the challenge is part of the artistic proposal of the game. A game is a work of art created by developers and a director and I will always defend creative freedom when it comes to preserve what is the intended experience. If that means that I'm not the intended target of the game, that's ok. A game is a different media than books for example, it needs active interaction and some games will demand more from the player, is the nature of the media and we can not change that. Again, it does no mean that developers can not add accesibility option. But if they are forced to add options that ruin the desire experience crafter by the author, then it's artistic interference

[@Nickong67]

A bit of trivia, the five levels in the game are based on the five elements in the Wu Xing philosophy, in the order of the game levels, they are Wood, Fire, Water, Metal/Gold, and I’ve not reached the fifth but it has to be Earth. You’ll start seeing their associated colours and motifs everywhere in the levels.

[@prodbymxgui]

not only did i have to master this game as you say, i also made my life even more difficult by refusing to age up. i wanted to beat the game at age 20. was very, very painful.

[@AkuAku695]

i am a perfectionist, all this is music to my ears. Critics taking points off for the difficulty is pathetic. They wanna be able to beat a game in a week and move on to the next game

[@AdvancedKrizalid]

The big problem is , what has been said here can be applied to ANY game. Being forced to play a level until you get it perfectly right is not content and is not exclusive to Sifu , it can be done in ANY game , except other game do not use this to hide the lack of content.

[@barioneaccidioso3804]

@@AdvancedKrizalid devs said it, Sifu is a game that takes you to master it. It tries to immerse the player in the vengeance journey of the character. But yeah, they are a small team that made a small game... a good one.

[@hazim9529]

Your argument is true, but not entirely correct. Having hard difficulty and high learning curve is fine, as long as it's FAIR. Take Dark Souls for example. It's unforgiving sure, but the game never work against the player. You can always run away from combat encounters. You can always backtrack at any time. You can summon allies before fights. You can see helpful signs placed by other players. There's even certain builds that can completely cheese the whole game. On the other hand, take Marvel's Avengers. Enemies stun-lock you repeatedly. Barely visible hit indicators. Wonky camera angles. Bullet sponge bosses. If I review this game, I WILL take the points off for the difficulty.

[@pagatryx5451]

@@hazim9529 Sounds like a personal problem.

[@AkuAku695]

@@hazim9529 i definitely understand. I get how the camera angles and other stuff could get in the way of enjoyment, but if the game works until the end and it requires skill to actually master all enemies and bosses before dying of old age, that is not a negative which some reviewers are making it out to be. I get how its annoying but thats how games like castlevania were on NES. Took time to master a level and a boss. Technical issues and jankiness are never excusable tho

[@Hellkite422]

Brilliant review and excellent content as always. Honestly from watching all of this game seems like a hard pass for me. I love a difficult challenge but the experience of grinding the same encounters to learn the repetition doesn't sound like I would honestly enjoy it. For those of you that are picking it up, I hope you have a great time!

[@gorowlystomak3339]

This is one of those games that I kinda of wish had a demo. I know a demo of one level would mean giving up 1/5 of the game, but it I had one level to master I'm sure it could win over people who are unsure. Right now, I think it's a pass for me unless the price comes down.

[@MrKearney12]

My dad is not a video game guy. I'm 34 and he's 60. However, he DOES love action flicks. We watched all 3 John Wick movies cause he hadn't seen em and he was all about it. I showed him a clip of this game and he was giggling away. Play it if you like that fast, super satisfying action. It's tough and the camera will totally screw you over a few times, but man is it good.

[@NateTheScot]

Dude i love that you title your videos "i recommend" or "i don't recommend" because for something like this i could immediately tell it was going to be an interesting video discussion because it was titled "review" instead. I think i might like SIFU, or i could absolutely hate it and refund it... hard to say without trying it. I love banging my head against soulslike games and roguelike/roguelites as well as doing the same thing over and over and over again in MMOs to grind or even dark souls 3 grinding Sharp gems.. I'm definitely going to pick it up when i have a couple of days free to just sink into it. Currently waiting on my very pregnant black lab to give birth so maybe not the best time to try something like SIFU, but definitely one to keep an eye on. Love the videos as always keep up the awesome content :D

[@Evanz111]

This seems eerily similar to the reaction people had playing Returnal. Difficult but due to reflexes and player skill, but incredible if you get into the tempo of the game.

[@plansix9688]

I love Returnal, but it has some real flaws. That third area just sucks and it so much harder than the rest of the game. And the low level weapons are just boring without the perks higher level weapons have. It’s amazing, but I have a hard time recommending it.

[@nottheone3408]

@@plansix9688 I think that’s not bad thing. I normally don’t recommend a game unless I have a feeling the person I’m recommending to would find it interesting. Example I wouldn’t recommend to some one that only plays CoD and Pubg. Or I would recommend Ghost of Tsushima to people that play Ubisoft open worlds.

[@plansix9688]

​@@nottheone3408 I like Returnal, but the third area sucks. There are enemies that do way to much damage for the amount of damage you can deal. At no other point in the game does this problem exist. And the enemies are such a pain that is severally limits the weapons you can consider taking, eliminating some of the most fun weapons to use. This is one of the core problems with discussing difficulty in games like Sifu, dark souls or Returnal. People are so protective the "difficulty" that there can be straight up poor design decisions glossed over because a set of people will defend that decision as "core to the experience." Like lack of accessibility options because the designers could find a way to keep their game difficult while including features for the physically disabled.

[@Carnagath82]

The games themselves look very different. Mostly because it is very easy to brute force Returnal by just not taking any risks and focusing on health, damage reduction and the best weapons. Sifu looks like a game that you actually need to get good at. I'll skip it because I'm too old for this shit.

[@fatbroccoli8]

I’m guessing people who whine about it being to hard have no patience and aren’t willing to get better at the game

[@markm5927]

Great review! This reminds me a bit of the conversation around Death Stranding, another big budget game with a lot of hype that ended up being more weird and singular than people expected. In both instances I'm actually more excited for the game because of it. As long as games are aiming for as much accessibility as possible, then it's ok that some will have a more niche audience.

[@gleipnirrr]

yup! death stranding was a masterpiece. it just was very specific in what it was, and it definitely wasnt for everyone

[@spendsshanks6050]

@@gleipnirrr No it wasn’t lol. You may need to look up the definition of “masterpiece”

[@gleipnirrr]

@@spendsshanks6050 I don't care for the opinions of the mediocre on what is or is not a masterpiece.

[@spendsshanks6050]

@@gleipnirrr Lol whatever clown. The game objectively isn’t a masterpiece or anything close to it.

[@adr.k8676]

I love games that demand perfection from players.Will wait till it drops on steam

[@Voxavs]

I think your Karate Kid reference perfectly captured the essense of the game. Beating levels perfectly is a reward of itself, it just feels great. And this sensation of personal growth is honestly increadible. Fights that seemed impossible become trivial, oponents that handed your ass to you are now floor mops, when you notice this pattern you just can't stop.