What is it?
Bloodless is pixel graphics action game set in historic Japan. You play as a ronin called Tomoe who returns to her old homeland. This is a land of conflict with bandits and the Shogun and his minions fighting. Tomoe, having left her violent past behind her, sees herself getting involved in the conflict and needs to fight once again, though now without killing anyone; hence the name of the game. Besides from fighting you will also meet and talk to various characters, collect stuff, brew healing tea and update various abilities. In March 2026 the game received a major update adding an assist mode, including an invincibility option, as well as a roguelike mode called Namazu’s Wrath.
Is it player-friendly?
The game demands high player skill and timing abilities, but thanks to the great assist options you can make it much more forgiving and welcoming. The controls, menus and update system are relatively simple and easy to use. The game has an appropriate length; not too long.
Is it any good?
Bloodless has a rather unique visual style with high contrast pixel graphics and great atmosphere. The gameplay on harder difficulties is taxing, but with assist options enabled it can be to anyone’s liking. The controls are responsive, not too complicated, though movement can be a bit jerky when attacking/dashing. What sets the game apart from most other action games is the focus on non-lethal combat. It plays like other games, but instead of physically hurting other characters you disarm and weaken them. This approach is very welcome in a world where so many games are based on the player murdering people and acting destructive.
Peter Öberg
A review copy was provided.