9 Monkeys of Shaolin

9 Monkeys of Shaolin is a beat ’em up action game set in ancient China during the Ming Dynasty, blending martial arts combat with RPG elements. Players take on the role of a fisherman seeking revenge against pirates who raided his village, mastering various fighting styles and abilities while battling through scenic locations like monasteries and coastal villages. The game features a diagonal-down 2D scrolling perspective, cooperative multiplayer, and a mix of melee and magical attacks inspired by classic kung fu cinema.

9 Monkeys of Shaolin: A Modern Homage to Classic Beat ‘Em Ups

Introduction

In an era where retro revivals are both celebrated and scrutinized, 9 Monkeys of Shaolin emerges as a bold attempt to resurrect the golden age of side-scrolling beat ’em ups. Developed by the Russian indie studio Sobaka Studio and published by Buka Entertainment, this 2020 release is a love letter to the 16-bit brawlers of yesteryear, infused with the aesthetic and philosophical depth of 1970s kung fu cinema. At its core, 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is a game about vengeance, discipline, and the transformative power of martial arts, wrapped in a visually striking package that blends historical authenticity with supernatural flair.

The game’s premise is simple yet compelling: you play as Wei Cheng, a humble fisherman whose village is ravaged by the Wokou, a faction of ruthless pirates. After being rescued by Shaolin monks, Wei Cheng embarks on a journey of revenge, training under the monks to master the ancient arts of Shaolin kung fu. What follows is a brutal, often poetic exploration of loss, redemption, and the cost of vengeance, all set against the backdrop of Ming Dynasty China. But does 9 Monkeys of Shaolin succeed in its ambitious goal of reviving a genre that has largely faded into nostalgia, or does it fall short of its lofty aspirations?

This review will delve deep into every facet of 9 Monkeys of Shaolin, from its development history and narrative themes to its gameplay mechanics, artistic direction, and lasting impact on the beat ’em up genre. By the end, we’ll determine whether this game is a worthy successor to the classics it emulates or merely a fleeting homage that fails to carve out its own legacy.

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Development History & Context

The Studio Behind the Game

Sobaka Studio, founded in 2016 and based in Moscow, Russia, is a relatively small but ambitious indie developer. Prior to 9 Monkeys of Shaolin, the studio gained recognition for Redeemer, a top-down brawler that blended brutal combat with a dark, cyberpunk aesthetic. While Redeemer was well-received for its intense action and atmospheric presentation, it was 9 Monkeys of Shaolin that truly allowed Sobaka Studio to flex its creative muscles and pay homage to the games that inspired its team.

The development of 9 Monkeys of Shaolin began in 2017, with the studio drawing heavily from the side-scrolling beat ’em ups of the 16-bit era, particularly classics like Double Dragon, Streets of Rage, and Final Fight. The team at Sobaka Studio was driven by a shared passion for retro gaming and a deep appreciation for the kinetic energy of kung fu films from the 1970s and 1980s. This dual influence is evident in every aspect of the game, from its combat mechanics to its visual style.

Technological Constraints and Innovations

9 Monkeys of Shaolin was built using Unreal Engine 4, a choice that allowed the developers to create a 2.5D environment with fluid animations, dynamic lighting, and destructible objects. The use of UE4 also facilitated the implementation of physics-based interactions, which are crucial for the game’s combat system. For instance, the way Wei Cheng’s staff connects with enemies—complete with microfreezes to emphasize impact—is a testament to the engine’s capabilities.

One of the most notable innovations in 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is its three distinct fighting stances: Earth, Air, and Magic Seals. Each stance offers a unique playstyle, from the brute force of Earth to the acrobatic agility of Air and the mystical ranged attacks of Magic Seals. This system adds a layer of depth to the combat that is rarely seen in traditional beat ’em ups, allowing players to customize their approach to each encounter.

However, the development process was not without its challenges. Balancing the three stances proved to be a significant hurdle, as the team had to ensure that each was viable without overwhelming the player with complexity. Additionally, optimizing the game’s netcode for online co-op required extensive testing, as the built-in tools of Unreal Engine 4 needed custom refinements to ensure smooth gameplay for two players.

The Gaming Landscape at Release

9 Monkeys of Shaolin was released on October 16, 2020, a time when the beat ’em up genre was experiencing a modest resurgence. Games like Streets of Rage 4 and Battletoads had recently reignited interest in the genre, proving that there was still an audience for well-crafted brawlers. However, the market was also crowded with indie titles vying for attention, making it essential for 9 Monkeys of Shaolin to stand out.

The game’s release was met with a mix of anticipation and skepticism. On one hand, its striking visuals and promising combat mechanics generated buzz among fans of the genre. On the other hand, some critics questioned whether the game could live up to the legacy of the classics it sought to emulate. The answer, as we’ll explore in the following sections, is a resounding yes—with some caveats.

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Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Plot Summary

9 Monkeys of Shaolin is set in the Year of the Water Monkey (1572) during the Ming Dynasty, a period marked by both cultural flourishing and political turmoil. The game’s protagonist, Wei Cheng, is a fisherman living a quiet life in a coastal village. His tranquility is shattered when the Wokou, a faction of pirates, raids his village, slaughtering his family and friends. Wei Cheng is left for dead but is rescued by a group of Shaolin monks who take him to their temple.

Under the guidance of the monks, Wei Cheng trains rigorously, mastering the ancient martial arts of Shaolin. His journey is one of vengeance, as he seeks to avenge the deaths of his loved ones and put an end to the Wokou’s reign of terror. Along the way, he allies with a smuggler and seven Shaolin monks, forming the legendary “9 Monkeys” who fight to protect their homeland.

The narrative unfolds across five chapters, each representing a different clan of the Wokou. Wei Cheng’s quest takes him through a variety of locations, from burning villages to ancient monasteries, each with its own set of challenges and enemies. The story culminates in an epic showdown with the pirate overlord, where Wei Cheng must confront not only his enemies but also his own inner demons.

Themes and Motifs

At its heart, 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is a story about revenge and redemption. Wei Cheng’s journey is driven by a deep-seated desire for vengeance, but as he progresses, he begins to understand the true cost of his quest. The game explores themes of loss, justice, and the transformative power of discipline, all of which are central to the Shaolin philosophy.

One of the most compelling aspects of the narrative is its exploration of the duality of vengeance. On one hand, Wei Cheng’s quest is justified—he seeks to avenge the deaths of his loved ones and protect his homeland. On the other hand, the game questions whether vengeance is truly the path to redemption or if it merely perpetuates a cycle of violence. This theme is particularly evident in the game’s later chapters, where Wei Cheng begins to grapple with the moral implications of his actions.

The game also draws heavily from the wuxia genre, a form of Chinese fiction that blends martial arts with supernatural elements. This influence is evident in the game’s setting, which combines historical accuracy with mystical elements, such as the He Shi Bi Jade, a powerful artifact that plays a crucial role in the story. The blend of history and fantasy creates a rich, immersive world that feels both grounded and otherworldly.

Character Development

Wei Cheng’s character arc is one of the game’s strongest elements. At the beginning of the story, he is a broken man, consumed by grief and a desire for revenge. As he trains under the Shaolin monks, he begins to transform, both physically and spiritually. His journey is one of self-discovery, as he learns to channel his anger into discipline and mastery.

The supporting characters in 9 Monkeys of Shaolin are equally well-developed. The Shaolin monks who train Wei Cheng serve as mentors, each offering their own unique perspective on martial arts and philosophy. The smuggler who aids Wei Cheng provides a pragmatic counterpoint to the monks’ spiritual teachings, adding depth to the narrative.

The game’s antagonists, particularly the leaders of the Wokou clans, are also well-crafted. Each boss has their own motivations and backstory, making them more than just mindless enemies. For example, Hannya, the leader of the Red Wokou clan, is revealed to be a woman fighting to restore her clan’s honor, adding a layer of tragedy to her character.

Dialogue and Voice Acting

The dialogue in 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is well-written and often poetic, reflecting the game’s philosophical themes. The voice acting, particularly for Wei Cheng and the Shaolin monks, is excellent, with performances that convey a sense of gravitas and authenticity. The game’s English voice acting, performed by actors like Daisuke Tsuji, captures the atmosphere of 1970s kung fu films, adding to the game’s nostalgic appeal.

However, the dialogue is not without its flaws. At times, the writing can feel overly melodramatic, and some of the supporting characters’ lines can come across as clichéd. Additionally, the game’s attempt to blend historical authenticity with modern sensibilities occasionally results in tonal inconsistencies.

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Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Core Gameplay Loop

At its core, 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is a side-scrolling beat ’em up with a strong emphasis on combo-based combat. The game’s core gameplay loop revolves around moving through levels, defeating waves of enemies, and progressing through the story. Each level is designed to test the player’s mastery of the combat system, with enemies that require different strategies to defeat.

The game’s combat is fluid and responsive, with a variety of attacks that can be chained together to create devastating combos. Players can perform light and heavy attacks, as well as charged attacks that deal increased damage. The game also features a parry system, which allows players to deflect enemy attacks and counter with their own.

One of the most innovative aspects of 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is its three distinct fighting stances: Earth, Air, and Magic Seals. Each stance offers a unique playstyle, allowing players to customize their approach to combat. The Earth stance is focused on brute force, with powerful melee attacks that can break through enemy defenses. The Air stance is more agile, allowing players to perform acrobatic moves like tornado spins and vault kicks. The Magic Seals stance is the most unique, allowing players to create seals on the ground that apply debuffs to enemies, such as pulling them closer or increasing their vulnerability.

Character Progression

9 Monkeys of Shaolin features an extensive character progression system that allows players to customize Wei Cheng’s abilities and equipment. As players progress through the game, they earn improvement points that can be spent in a branching technique tree. This tree is divided into categories like basic attacks, Qi energy moves, and magic seals, allowing players to tailor Wei Cheng’s skills to their preferred playstyle.

The game also features a variety of weapons and equipment that can be found or purchased throughout the story. Each weapon has its own unique traits, such as increased damage or faster attack speed. Players can also equip footwear and prayer beads, which provide additional bonuses like increased dodge distance or enhanced Qi abilities.

UI and Controls

The game’s UI is clean and intuitive, with a minimalist design that keeps the focus on the action. The controls are responsive and easy to learn, with a layout that feels natural for both keyboard and gamepad users. The game also features a variety of accessibility options, such as adjustable difficulty settings and customizable controls, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Multiplayer and Co-Op

9 Monkeys of Shaolin supports both local and online co-op for up to two players. The second player takes on the role of Daoshan, the youngest of the Shaolin monks, and can join Wei Cheng in battle. The co-op mode is seamless, with drop-in and drop-out functionality that allows players to join or leave mid-level. The game’s progression system is designed to accommodate co-op play, with upgrade points earned collectively but spent independently.

The co-op mode is one of the game’s strongest features, as it adds a layer of strategy and camaraderie to the combat. Playing with a friend makes the game more enjoyable and challenging, as players can coordinate their attacks and support each other in battle.

Innovations and Flaws

9 Monkeys of Shaolin introduces several innovations to the beat ’em up genre, particularly in its combat system and character progression. The three fighting stances add a layer of depth that is rarely seen in traditional brawlers, allowing players to customize their playstyle. The game’s emphasis on combo-based combat and environmental interactions also sets it apart from other titles in the genre.

However, the game is not without its flaws. The most significant issue is the game’s brevity, with a campaign that can be completed in around five hours. While the game’s replayability is enhanced by its co-op mode and multiple difficulty settings, the short campaign may leave some players wanting more. Additionally, the game’s level design can feel repetitive at times, with environments and enemy encounters that lack variety.

Another issue is the game’s difficulty curve, which can be uneven at times. Some boss fights are particularly challenging, requiring precise timing and strategy, while others can be defeated with relative ease. This inconsistency can be frustrating for players who are looking for a more balanced experience.

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World-Building, Art & Sound

Setting and Atmosphere

9 Monkeys of Shaolin is set in a fictionalized version of Ming Dynasty China, blending historical accuracy with supernatural elements. The game’s world is richly detailed, with environments that range from burning villages to ancient monasteries. Each location is meticulously crafted, with a strong emphasis on authenticity and atmosphere.

The game’s setting is one of its strongest elements, as it immerses players in a world that feels both grounded and otherworldly. The blend of history and fantasy creates a unique atmosphere that is reminiscent of classic wuxia films. The game’s attention to detail, from the architecture of the Ming Dynasty to the costumes of the characters, adds to its immersive quality.

Visual Direction

The visual style of 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is a blend of hand-drawn comic book aesthetics and traditional Chinese art. The game’s environments are rendered in a 2.5D style, with bold outlines, high-contrast shadows, and vibrant colors. The character designs are equally striking, with detailed animations that capture the fluidity and precision of martial arts.

The game’s visual direction is one of its most impressive aspects, as it successfully evokes the atmosphere of 1970s kung fu films while also feeling fresh and modern. The use of color is particularly noteworthy, with each location featuring a distinct palette that reflects its mood and setting. For example, the burning villages are bathed in orange and red hues, while the ancient monasteries are rendered in cooler tones.

Sound Design and Music

The sound design in 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is excellent, with a strong emphasis on immersion and authenticity. The game’s combat sounds are particularly well-crafted, with each attack and impact feeling weighty and satisfying. The game also features a variety of environmental sounds, such as the crackling of fire and the rustling of leaves, which add to its atmospheric quality.

The game’s music is equally impressive, with a soundtrack that blends traditional Chinese instruments with modern electronic elements. The music is dynamic and responsive, changing to reflect the intensity of the combat. The game’s main theme is particularly memorable, with a melody that captures the spirit of Wei Cheng’s journey.

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Reception & Legacy

Critical Reception

9 Monkeys of Shaolin received generally favorable reviews from critics, with a Metacritic score of 71/100 across platforms. Critics praised the game’s combat mechanics, visual style, and nostalgic appeal, with many noting its successful revival of the beat ’em up genre. The game’s co-op mode was also highlighted as a standout feature, adding to its replayability and enjoyment.

However, the game was not without its detractors. Some critics found the game’s campaign to be too short, with a lack of variety in its level design and enemy encounters. Others criticized the game’s uneven difficulty curve, particularly in its boss fights. Despite these flaws, the consensus was that 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is a competent and enjoyable indie title that successfully captures the spirit of classic beat ’em ups.

Commercial Performance

While official sales figures have not been disclosed, 9 Monkeys of Shaolin has achieved modest indie success. The game has been supported by frequent Steam bundles and discounts, which have helped sustain its visibility and appeal. The game’s inclusion in Xbox sales promotions, such as Deals with Gold, has also contributed to its commercial success.

Legacy and Influence

9 Monkeys of Shaolin is a testament to the enduring appeal of the beat ’em up genre. While it may not have revolutionized the genre, it has certainly contributed to its resurgence, proving that there is still an audience for well-crafted brawlers. The game’s blend of historical authenticity, supernatural elements, and fluid combat mechanics has set a new standard for indie beat ’em ups, influencing subsequent titles in the genre.

The game’s legacy is also evident in its reception among players. On Steam, 9 Monkeys of Shaolin has received a “Very Positive” user rating, with 85% of reviews positive. Players have praised the game’s accessible combat mechanics, nostalgic appeal, and co-op features, with many noting its replayability and enjoyment. The game’s modding community has also contributed to its longevity, with players creating custom content and modifications that extend its lifespan.

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Conclusion

9 Monkeys of Shaolin is a triumphant revival of the beat ’em up genre, blending the nostalgia of classic brawlers with modern innovations and a rich, immersive world. The game’s combat mechanics are fluid and satisfying, with a variety of attacks and stances that allow for deep customization. Its narrative is compelling, with themes of revenge, redemption, and the transformative power of discipline. The game’s visual and auditory presentation is equally impressive, with a striking art style and a dynamic soundtrack that capture the spirit of 1970s kung fu films.

However, the game is not without its flaws. Its brevity and repetitive level design may leave some players wanting more, and its uneven difficulty curve can be frustrating at times. Despite these issues, 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is a standout title in the beat ’em up genre, offering a unique and enjoyable experience that is well worth the time of any fan of the genre.

In the pantheon of beat ’em ups, 9 Monkeys of Shaolin may not be a revolutionary title, but it is certainly a worthy successor to the classics it emulates. Its blend of historical authenticity, supernatural elements, and fluid combat mechanics sets it apart from other titles in the genre, making it a must-play for fans of retro gaming and martial arts cinema alike. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the beat ’em up genre or a newcomer looking for a fresh take on classic gameplay, 9 Monkeys of Shaolin is a game that deserves your attention.

Final Verdict: 8.5/10 – A Modern Classic in the Making