Slain: Back From Hell Reviews

Slain: Back from Hell is that mural on that beaten down van painted by someone sporting a mullet; the first time you walk by you quickly glance over and think, ‘hey, that’s cool.’ But after going by a bunch of times you notice the faded colors and the incomprehensible scene of violence going on. It’s like the artist wants you to take the time to appreciate the art but, honestly, it’s not worth the effort. There are a few spots that stick out like a segment where a warrior turns into a wolf or the bright blues and reds that border the fresco. But really, there are no secrets to be found here (and not many in the game). The mural is here to distract you for a short period (6 hours) and once you’re done taking it in, you’ll find it difficult to recall the experience.

In my honest opinion, I would say you could pass on Slain: Back from Hell—it simply isn’t a must-play. If you happen to have the extra cash, and are looking for something mildly enjoyable, then you could definitely do far worse—there are moments of pure, sidescrolling fun in this game and the art and style add to the appeal—but I wouldn’t go out of my way here. The best thing that can come from throwing some cash at this game is that the developers might be encouraged to make another game, and next time, make one with a little more depth and reward. Assuming you’re like me, with limited financial resources, and you’ve got your eye on another game, then, by all means, get that other game.

Overall, Slain: Back From Hell is a fun game. Despite the critical tone of much of this review, I very much enjoyed my time with Bathoryn and will be going back to try and unlock the rest of those no-hit boss achievements. It is best to go in with a clear idea of what to expect, however, which is a no-nonsense old-school hack and slash platformer fuelled by heavy metal.

Indie developers rarely capture the true spirit of old-school games. Thankfully, Slain: Back from Hell feels like a long-lost SNES game complete with enough frustrating elements that would make even the Dalai Lama throw his controller.

Slain: Back from Hell is a game that captures your attention immediately. It's a heavy metal inspired 2D hack-and-slash with some of the most beautiful pixel graphics and art design that you'll see. In an age where games using the pixel-art style are a dime a dozen, Slain stands out from the crowd not only with its metal aesthetic, but with its incredibly detailed and intricate backgrounds. Each new area is given a fantastic amount of depth, and you feel as if you're travelling through a fully realised world.

Leading up to the re-release of Slain, Wolf Brew posted a marketing caption: UPGRADED, OVERHAULED & REDEEMED. Does Back From Hell “redeem” the initial disappointing release? In my eyes, absolutely. Like a medieval sinner turned to a life of holy demon-slaying knighthood, it claws its way back into the light over a pile of steaming gore-matted corpses. And if that’s not metal, I don’t know what is.