A spiritual successor to the 2007 title X-Blades, Blades of Time is an action-adventure hack-and-slash that blends third-person combat with unique temporal mechanics. Originally released in 2012, this title follows the adventures of Ayumi, a skilled treasure hunter navigating a fantastical, dangerous world. While the game has faced criticism regarding its technical execution and camera controls, its core gameplay loop offers a distinct experience for fans of the genre looking for something beyond standard combat fare.

Mastering Time and Combat in Dragonland

The heart of Blades of Time lies in its blend of melee prowess and ranged capability. Players control Ayumi, a master of both sword and gun, utilizing twin blades alongside rifles and machine guns to fend off waves of enemies. The combat system is built around a primal moveset that includes slashing, kicking, dashing, and even tossing enemies into the air for devastating finishes on weakened foes.

What truly sets the game apart from traditional hack-and-slash titles is the time rewind mechanic. Unlike the more linear time manipulation seen in other franchises, Ayumi can activate a rewind that allows her to set specific actions to be performed by a "timeline clone." This ability creates an echo of her movements, allowing for simultaneous attacks that can quadruple damage output in boss fights or provide the necessary presence to trigger multiple pressure pads during environmental puzzles. As you progress, collecting souls from defeated enemies allows you to visit altars to exchange them for new magic spells and elemental powers.

A Journey Through Dragonland

The story thrusts Ayumi and her partner, Zero, into the mysterious realm of Dragonland. What began as a standard treasure-hunting expedition quickly turns into a struggle for survival after the duo becomes stranded in this alternate universe. The setting is a vibrant, often surreal landscape shaped by the conflict between the gods of order and chaos, filled with everything from zombies to magical mechs.

As Ayumi traverses ten sizable chapters, she must contend with environments that demand unique survival tactics. For instance, in certain desert regions, players must strategically navigate through shadows to avoid the lethal heat of the sun. The journey is punctuated by large-scale boss battles and encounters with various characters—including a fiery spirit that provides essential guidance—as Ayumi seeks to find her missing companion and escape the island.

Key Features

  • Dual Combat Styles: Seamlessly switch between high-intensity sword combat and third-person shooting mechanics.
  • Temporal Manipulation: Use the unique time rewind mechanic to create clones of yourself for complex puzzles and overwhelming combat advantages.
  • Character Progression: Collect souls from fallen enemies to unlock powerful magic spells and upgraded gear via mysterious altars.
  • Diverse Environments: Explore varied landscapes, from sun-scorched deserts to lush, dangerous territories, each featuring unique environmental hazards.

Who is this game for?

Blades of Time appeals most strongly to fans of "B-game" action titles and those who enjoy the stylish, high-octane combat found in games like Bayonetta or X-Blades. While it may not be for players who prioritize polished technical performance or complex narratives, its innovative time-manipulation mechanics and satisfying combat loop offer a compelling experience for those looking to explore a hidden gem of the action genre. It is an ideal pick for players who enjoy experimenting with character builds through magic and elemental upgrades.

Platform Availability

Players can experience Blades of Time on a wide variety of platforms, including:

  • PC
  • Nintendo Switch
  • macOS
  • Xbox 360
  • PlayStation 3