TREK TO YOMI

Now this is Kurosawa Mode. Recognising that paying tribute to one of the greats of Japanese cinema involves more than slapping on a black-and-white filter and a bit of film grain, this samurai side-scroller appreciates the value of lighting and perspective when it comes to shooting chanbara action. The result is thrillingly cinematic, the camera zooming out to frame expansive vistas, and hanging low below a confrontation atop a bridge, silhouetting its two fighters against the moon. The story, written by Alec Meer, embraces samurai themes of duty and honour, while leaning into Shinto mythology: not all the enemies you’ll face will be human. This is a classier affair than we’re used to from Devolver, though there will be plenty of bloodshed. If it plays even half as good as it looks, this could be one of next year’s most exciting games.