Time-based defensive maneuvers are set to shape the future of action game genres, extending their influence to even turn-based RPGs, such as Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
In February 2025, PC Gamer magazine published an article as part of its 'Why I Love' series, where writers discuss something they cherish about video games and the reasons behind their affection. In this piece, the author expresses their admiration for the "soulslike" genre's evolution towards a more "sekirolike" approach.
"Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice," developed by FromSoftware, has recently captured the author's attention, resulting in its inclusion in their list of favorite games of the year. The title's unique mechanics resonate with the author, as they have become increasingly common in the souls-like genre.
The central mechanic in Sekiro is the breaking of an enemy's posture through timed blocks, rather than simply reducing their health bar to zero as in traditional souls games. This system introduces a rhythmic element to the game, creating a dynamic back-and-forth in boss fights reminiscent of a martial arts film.
Despite the author not being a fan of rhythm games, they have formed an emotional bond with the "sekirolike" genre, a connection that seems counterintuitive at first glance. They attribute this affection to several factors.
One key attraction lies in the art of the duel, as found in some of FromSoftware's best boss fights. These duels provide players with the feeling of being on equal footing with their opponents, rather than facing insurmountable challenges. The timed block mechanic in Sekiro aligns perfectly with this notion, as it involves trading blows with an opponent, mirroring the push and pull of a martial arts movie.
Another essential factor is the sense of personal triumph that comes with mastering the timed block, creating a profound emotional response akin to the Matrix. The author admits that they no longer strive to defeat bosses in these games, but instead crave that feeling of mastery.
Nine Sols, another title that employs the timed block mechanic, takes it a step further with the introduction of the "Unbounded Counter." This mechanism requires players to pre-emptively charge their block, setting them up for success when executed correctly. This dynamic aligns with the mythological "David vs. Goliath" narrative, as the player can overcome seemingly insurmountable odds with well-timed actions.
Overall, the timed block mechanic found in the souls-like genre offers a deep sense of satisfaction, strategic depth, and psychological engagement for players. These elements set it apart from rhythm games and create a unique and highly engaging gameplay experience.
Harvey Randall is an experienced games journalist, having written for Techradar, The Escapist, Dicebreaker, and The Gamer, among others. He has a passion for role-playing games (RPGs), souls-like action games, roguelikes, deckbuilders, MMOs, and indie titles. He is also an avid tabletop role-playing player.
- The unique timed block mechanic in Sekiro has resonated with Harvey Randall, and the game has become one of his favorites of the year.
- As a games journalist, Harvey has written for several prominent publications like Techradar, The Escapist, Dicebreaker, and The Gamer.
- In the souls-like genre, the timed block mechanic offers a profound feeling of mastery for players, comparable to the Matrix.
- The timed block mechanic in Sekiro mirrors the push and pull of a martial arts movie, providing players with the sensation of equal footing with their opponents.
- FromSoftware's Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, with its innovative timed block system, has captured the attention of many gamers, including Harvey Randall.
- Nine Sols, another game employing the timed block mechanic, introduces the "Unbounded Counter," which requires players to pre-emptively charge their block for future success.
- Beyond the souls-like genre, Harvey is passionate about various gaming categories, including role-playing games (RPGs), roguelikes, deckbuilders, MMOs, indie titles, and tabletop role-playing games.
