A bloody platformer that heals you with a sword

Ichorous has caught the attention of PC Gamer, with the writer describing it as the bloody platformer they had been waiting for since finishing Blasphemous 2. The standout detail is a self-harm healing mechanic: the player impales themselves with a sword to heal.

Why does this matter beyond one game? For studios, it shows that a clear, memorable core mechanic can carry word-of-mouth even in a crowded genre. Gore and grim tone are not a barrier when the design is coherent and the hook is easy to explain in one line.

For developers and designers working on action games, the lesson is to lead with a signature mechanic that players can describe to a friend in seconds. For players and critics, it is a reminder that a strong sense of identity often matters more than scale.

What mechanics have made you pick up a game on the spot? Share your view below.