The Thrill of the Comeback
My first encounter with The Hidden Ones was a rollercoaster of emotions. The game started off on a shaky note as I lost my first character early in the match due to a missed opportunity with my Ultimate Skill. However, the tide turned when I managed to bring my mid-character into play, only to watch her fall to my opponent’s anchor. Just when I thought my comeback was slipping away, my anchor entered the fray. Although I was unfamiliar with her abilities, I quickly adapted. I skillfully canceled my default combos into successive attacks and executed my Ultimate Skill with precision, securing a thrilling victory on the final hit. This exhilarating moment perfectly encapsulated the magic of fighting games, and The Hidden Ones certainly delivers on that front.
Understanding the Lore
For those unfamiliar with the backstory, The Hidden Ones is adapted from the anime Hitori No Shita: The Outcasts, which itself is derived from the Chinese webcomic Under One Person. While the lore may seem intricate, diving into The Hidden Ones doesn’t require in-depth knowledge of the source material. As a newcomer to the franchise, I found the narrative quite accessible. The story mode thrusts players into the life of Wang Ye, one of the Outcasts, who possesses one of the Eight Secret Arts—abilities thought to be lost to time. As word of Wang Ye’s power spreads, he becomes the target of those seeking to exploit it.
A Compelling Storyline
Wang Ye’s journey begins with his attempt to protect himself and his family by seeking an audience with Li Gaofeng, the leader of the Li Troupe. Impressed by Wang’s determination and combat skills, Li agrees to let Wang and his family go unharmed. However, chaos ensues when Wang is framed for Li’s murder, forcing him to fend off the Li Troupe as he fights for his freedom.
The Art of Detail
One of the standout features of The Hidden Ones is its rich environment. Morefun Games has crafted an arena fighter that goes beyond mere combat. Players can explore the intricacies of the game’s world, immersing themselves in beautifully detailed environments inspired by real Chinese streets. During a recent interview, Lead Game Designer Fox Lin and Senior Game Designer Stan Fan emphasized their commitment to authenticity and detail, which is evident in the game’s stunning visuals. The characters and their animations are meticulously designed, drawing from Chinese martial arts and mythology.
A Unique Perspective on Power
While the Outcasts possess extraordinary abilities, they are also portrayed as relatable individuals navigating everyday life. Whether they’re shopping for groceries or using their powers subtly, the game emphasizes their humanity. This nuanced characterization adds depth to the story, highlighting that even amidst combat and magic, these characters are fundamentally regular people.
Fluid Combat Mechanics
The combat system in The Hidden Ones is where the game truly shines. It features a dynamic rock-paper-scissors mechanic that keeps battles engaging. Players can execute basic attacks, special moves, defensive stances, and throws, each interacting with one another in strategic ways. The game also incorporates a stamina system that allows for dodging and counterattacking, enhancing the depth of combat. This balance of offense and defense creates a constantly evolving battlefield where players must outthink their opponents.
Challenging Boss Fights
One of my favorite aspects of The Hidden Ones was the exhilarating boss fights. The first boss encounter began as a one-on-one skirmish but quickly escalated when the boss summoned a massive snake, adding a layer of complexity to the battle. The challenge of navigating around this formidable foe while delivering my own attacks kept me on my toes.
Trial Mode and Beyond
For players seeking additional challenges, The Hidden Ones offers a Trial Mode where you can face off against bosses using various characters. The demo featured two challenging bosses, each requiring strategic thinking and pattern recognition to defeat. This mode adds variety to the gameplay experience, allowing players to test their skills beyond the main story.
Final Thoughts
As I wrapped up my session with The Hidden Ones, I found myself eager for more, especially in the multiplayer arena. Morefun Games has crafted a unique and engaging fighting experience that successfully balances simplicity and depth. With its rich story and immersive world, I am excited to see how The Hidden Ones evolves. This game not only invites players to unleash their skills but also encourages strategic thinking, proving that even in the heat of battle, there’s always an opportunity waiting to be seized.
