Unbroken has dark castles, He-Man imagery, and a deep tap-only combat system
By the power of Greyskull?
John Araujo is out to prove that mobile games don't have to be "shallow or coercive in order to attract an audience."
He's hoping that his upcoming 2D hack 'n' slasher Unbroken for iOS will do all the proving.
It's certainly a looker. I particularly like how a ghostly mist hangs at the jungle's floor in one screenshot, providing a sinister atmosphere.
Araujo also seems to be evoking imagery from both He-Man and Castlevania with Unbroken. It's all dark castles, skeleton warriors, and swords that cast lightning when pointed at the sky.
It looks good in action, too. As you can see in the nearby gif, sword movements are fast, and allow for aerial combo slashing after an upward swing.
What isn't demonstrated is the game's controls, which are all taps apparently - no swipes, buttons, or virtual joysticks here.
According to Araujo, his tap-only combat system encourages "observation, strategy, and reflexes." Presumably tapping at he right time is what it's all about, then.
As you hit enemies, you'll build up a blue meter, which allows you to unleash Super Mode when full. In Super Mode, more moves are available and attacks are faster.
Being a fan of "fantasy-horror" and skeletons, I'll have to keep an eye on Unbroken, and see what comes of it. You can do so yourself by keeping watch over its website.
Thanks Christian V.