Chrono Punk brings Y2K aesthetic and high-speed action to roguelites

If you miss the days of the Dreamcast or the PS2, a new action roguelite called Chrono Punk is looking to capture that specific turn-of-the-millennium energy. As reported by Rock Paper Shotgun, the game wears its inspirations on its sleeve, blending stylistic nods to classics like Jet Set Radio, Devil May Cry, Spider-Man, and even the aesthetic of the anime Soul Eater into a fast-paced combat experience. The game is so convincing in its tribute to that era of gaming that it feels like a title players might have forgotten from the console libraries of the early 2000s.

Defining the vibe

The aesthetic is pure 2000s, featuring a player character who mirrors an anime-inspired design, described as a nightcore-style iteration of a Kingdom Hearts protagonist. The environments evoke the feeling of stylized MMOs from that same period. According to the reporting from Rock Paper Shotgun, the gameplay centers on fluid, high-speed movement through big, open cityscapes. Players can expect bouncy, wall-running movement and Spider-Man-style swinging to traverse the map. The combat system encourages players to bounce between enemies like a pinball, rewarding those who enjoy fast-paced, combo-heavy action.

Players will have a variety of combat options and weaponry at their disposal. The current roster of equipment includes a sword and shield, pistols, shuriken, a grimoire, and a signature scythe that calls back to the stylings of Soul Eater. The premise involves a narrative where a mega-corporation is manipulating time to control the city and its population, leaving the player to navigate the aftermath of their actions.

Why it matters

For players who enjoy combo-pilled action games, Chrono Punk offers a departure from the slower, more methodical pace often found in modern roguelites. The game promises a high-octane experience that prioritizes movement and style over realism. With both solo and co-op modes planned, it offers flexibility for those who want to jump into the action alone or with friends. While a specific release date has not yet been announced, the developers have opened a Steam wishlist page for those looking to keep track of future development updates. Players should keep an eye on official channels for more information as the game approaches its eventual launch.