When considering some of gaming’s toughest genres, purely in terms of difficulty—not just skill—certain ones inevitably stand out. You can’t really dive into this conversation without highlighting Soulslikes, Roguelikes, or even anything within the Bullet-hell category. These games are legendary for their intense challenges, whether it’s about adapting quickly, mastering lightning-fast reflexes, or just raw, unforgiving difficulty. So, imagine combining the already daunting Soulslike genre with elements of Metroidvania—what do you get? That’s where “Mark of the Deep” comes into play, which we’ll be looking at today.
Developed by Light Up Games and Mad Mimic, “Mark of the Deep” is a lively pirate adventure that mixes elements from some of these demanding genres. If you’re a fan of pirate-themed adventures, you’re in luck because “Mark of the Deep” has just launched on PC via Steam, and it’s also available on the Epic Games Store. Jump onboard quickly, and you can take advantage of a 15% discount to celebrate its release—valid for the first ten days only, so act fast if you want to save some coin.
In “Mark of the Deep,” you take on the role of Marcus “Rookie” Ramsey, a pirate marooned on a mysterious, cursed island. As part of this swashbuckling storyline, you’ll need to harness the powers of mysterious Marks. These will be essential in your battles against over eighty distinct enemies and sixteen challenging bosses as you unravel the island’s secrets.
Offered are branching paths and several possible endings, challenging you to make tricky decisions throughout your adventure. Completing the game will require more than just skill—sharp wits and a trusty cutlass will be equally important.
True to the Metroidvania style, you’ll explore connected environments brimming with treasures, danger, and mystery. And while you’re busy battling everything from deranged cultists to shadowy horrors, the Marks grant you powerful abilities. These abilities will reshape both your combat strategies and exploration tactics.
If “Mark of the Deep” piques your interest, you can check it out on Steam here or find it on the Epic Games Store if that’s your go-to platform. And remember, grabbing that discount is worth it—a few bucks saved can make a big difference.
This game seems like a great pick for anyone seeking a challenge. Although I don’t fancy myself as particularly adept in such tough genres, you can expect to hear more from me soon. The concept is intriguing, even if I know my limits. Not that this has ever stopped me from discussing things that test my patience. While you all grab your copies, I’ll search for my pirate hat—looks like I’m going to need it.
