The Legend of Tian Ding is the debut ARPG/Metroidvania from Taiwan based developers "Creative games computer graphics corporation". It's one of the best metroidvanias I've played this year.
The game centers around the story and deeds of Tian Ding, a Taiwanese folk hero. To put the story into a western terms, he's a Robin Hood type character,
fighting against the oppressive colonial rule of the Japanese and protecting his countrymen from injustice.
The presentation is wonderful, the art style really shines through in this game, adding a whole new layer of immersion.
It really feels like you're playing an old Formosa manga. Story sections are set in a panel format while gameplay plays out in a thematically similar style, while zooming in and out, to keep you connected to the action.
Gameplay is true to the genre staple. Combat, power ups and light platform exploration, with new areas, previously inaccessible, opening up to you as you gain new abilities and martial arts techniques.
The controls are incredibly responsive and the character perfectly weighted which results in a game that's an absolute joy to play and where controlling Tian Ding becomes almost intuitive and second nature.
Combat is fluid and satisfying, combos special techniques and counters are effortlessly woven together thanks to a well thought out control layout. You can even disarm opponents and use their weapons against then for a short time with various added effects, adding another layer of depth to combat strategy.
I was really impressed with this games performance, optimization and polish.
It's up there with Metroid Dread in terms of control. While the level design isn't as intricate as Dread, I genuinely had a lot of fun in my time with Tian Ding, more than my time with Metroid Dread. I just enjoyed being part of this game world more and the overall input and interactions pulled me in and kept my interest.
Tian Ding is a text book example of an unexpected and hidden gem.
The subject matter may be a little niche for some Western gamers, but I hope that doesn't stop them stepping out of their comfort zone and exploring a great folk tale and an overall excellent gameplay experience.