My Jenn’s speedier build fared better against a slow-moving boss, so doubling up on that strategy helped me take it down quicker. The game is at its best when you have two distinct twins to cover your bases against all threats, but having them both play similarly is a valid strategy, too. For example, I had Jenn emphasize swift attacks and evasion while Tristan became my death-dealing tank. Weapons and armor fundamentally alter their playstyles depending on their weight and type. Jenn and Tristan initially play identically, but that changes in fun ways since each has their own loadout. I like the fighting game strategy behind constantly tagging in/out to allow the other twin recovery time while mixing up your offense. This is great for making dramatic split-second saves since each sibling has their own health bar and a limited number of revives. An awesome tag team system allows you to quickly swap between siblings at a button press which you can use to set up cool combo chains. Still, I’m impressed with how much fun Young Souls is to play alone. Playing alongside a buddy is probably ideal, but co-op is local only, unfortunately. I encourage seasoned players to choose the developer’s recommended difficulty. A few enemy types are annoying to deal with (shield-wielding spearmen block way too often), but Young Souls brings the fight in the best way. I was pleasantly surprised at how often I had to consider my offense instead of just mashing the attack button, especially against bosses. They often evade, block, and parry, presenting an enjoyable challenge that kept me from mindlessly swinging my weapon. Goblins pose a more significant threat than the average beat ’em up fodder. Young Souls might not break the mold, but it’s an absolute blast to play. Upgradable sub-weapons add further depth, such as a bow, a screen-hopping teleportation spell, mob-clearing bombs, and, my favorite, a chain that yanks enemies towards you or vice versa. The timing window for blocks and parries feels inconsistent, which is frustrating, but a successful parry triggers a satisfying slow-motion effect. It doesn’t matter if you’re using daggers, swords, hammers, or heavy axes, stringing combos and air-juggling baddies feels great. Kicking goblin butt rocks thanks to combat’s fluidity and the impactful feedback from landing blows. The twins feel earnest and relatable instead of one-dimensional edgelords, especially when asking themselves if they’re ready to call the Professor “dad.” I also found it refreshing to see a villain genuinely care that invaders are systemically murdering his subjects. Seeing Jenn and Tristan ponder over their actions and discover that both sides of a conflict can commit atrocities with good intentions brings welcome self-awareness.

Young Souls’ solid writing treats players to a likable cast and a more emotionally charged story than expected. While that’s a problem, Jenn and Tristan’s primary concern is rescuing the Professor, and they are more than eager to pick up swords, shields, and other weapons to cut down goblin after goblin standing in their way. Even stranger, a portal in his laboratory reveals an underground world inhabited by goblins whose leader plans to assault their town. The three enjoy a harmonious though emotionally awkward relationship, but things take a turn for the weird when the twins discover the Professor has been kidnapped. The only person they respect is the Professor, their adoptive father who opened his home to them a year prior.

The foul-mouthed, hot-headed teens are conditioned to fend for themselves, earning a reputation as troublemaking outcasts in their small town. Orphaned twins Jenn and Tristan feel like they’re up against the world. Whether you’re cutting down monsters alone or alongside a buddy, brawler connoisseurs should take notice. This RPG brawler sports more depth than your run-of-the-mill beat ‘em up thanks to slick combat, enjoyable customization, and sharp writing. Young Souls stars two orphans who are used to being overlooked, but you shouldn’t ignore their adventure.

The young souls album artwor