Basic Information
- Official English Title: The Vagrant (originally Sword of the Vagrant)
- Developer & Publisher: Developed by O.T.K Games; Published by SakuraGame (PC) and Rainy Frog (Consoles)
- Release Dates:
- PC (Steam): July 13, 2018
- Consoles (PS4, Switch, Xbox): December 1, 2022
- Platforms: PC (Steam), PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One/Series X|S
- Genre Tags: Action RPG, Hack and Slash, Metroidvania
- Social Media: Steam Page (https://store.steampowered.com/app/598700)
In-Depth Review
The Vagrant is a visually striking 2D action RPG that pays homage to classic hack-and-slash titles while carving its own niche. Developed by Beijing-based indie studio O.T.K Games, the game follows Vivian, a sellsword navigating a cursed world of myth and monsters. Its hand-painted art style, inspired by Vanillaware’s Dragon’s Crown and Muramasa, immerses players in vibrant landscapes like the sunlit Snowfly Forest and the gothic Undercity.
Combat is the game’s centerpiece, blending fast-paced melee attacks with combo chains and elemental enchantments. Players can craft and upgrade weapons, select from multiple difficulty levels, and explore six expansive environments. The absence of permadeath and a New Game+ mode enhance replayability, though some critics note the linear design and occasionally repetitive enemy patterns.
While its narrative lacks the depth of AAA titles, The Vagrant compensates with polished gameplay mechanics and a budget-friendly price point. IGN Japan praised its “flawless” artwork and combat system, though noted the simplistic storytelling. For fans of indie action RPGs, this title offers a satisfying challenge with its intuitive controls and challenging boss encounters.
Game Link: The Vagrant