Personally, crunchy combat systems and satisfying melee battles are a huge draw when it comes to deciding which game to pick up next. DOOM: The Dark Ages has already taken top spot for this in 2025, but perhaps Vessels of Decay – from Headup, Aurora Punks and Simon Jakobsson, could provide similar enjoyment?
A Beautifully Dying World
Available now on Xbox, PlayStation, Switch and PC, Vessels of Decay is a retro action-adventure title that is reminiscent of the old Zelda titles, just updated for modern systems, and visually reminds of Another World.
It stars the duo of Freja and Mud, as they explore a world slowly decaying away, yet looks beautifully handcrafted. The developers have made sure to pay close attention to every element of the game world and the story of Scandinavian folklore that plays out within it.
It’s no surprise, therefore, that progression through the game will see you face off against many enemies from Scandinavian myth, with the boss encounters truly testing your skills.
Reminiscent of DOOM, finishing blows are a huge part of the satisfying combat loop on offer within Vessels of Decay. How you work your way through enemy encounters is up to you, with a variety of stylish weapons and combat tools at your disposal. Whether it’s ranged or up-close, it’ll look properly cool!
Vessels of Decay Key Features
- Dynamic Battle System: How you execute combat – and how your enemies perish – is entirely up to you!
- Unique Finishers: Every new enemy is a new opportunity for you to show your flair for combat; stagger your foes to set them up for (literally) killer animations and flourishes.
- Epic Multi-Stage Boss Encounters: The beasts of Scandinavian folklore will not let themselves be put down easily, and you’ll have to use your wits and reflexes to pursue and slay them!
- Explore A Beautiful World of Pixels, Death, and Decay: Vessels of Decay is an entirely handcrafted world, with care and thought poured into each and every scene, story beat, and environment.
- A Scandinavian Take on Classic Action-Adventure: The battered ruins of a once-modern society clash with the renewed growth of nature and the supernatural. Explore a uniquely Scandinavian setting through reflective melancholy, exploration, and fast-paced action.
Play Now!
Vessels of Decay can now be purchased on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch and PC. The Xbox Store listing, where the game costs £14.99, will have you covered.
Vessels of Decay Description
Civilization has ended, and something else awakens in its place. From the world’s decay, ancient creatures stir, rise, and roam the land. Vessels of Decay is a post-apocalyptic action-adventure following the story of Freja and Mud. In this retro-inspired tale, you’ll confront creatures of Scandinavian myth and folklore, and explore the ruins of the civilization they inhabit.
