Area Zero (2025)

I have played several indie fighting games during the years and it's very hard to get me surprised. Area Zero managed to do it. I don't know whether it is because of the very unique graphic style, the slightly unsettling characters or the amazing impact feeling, but this game has something that makes it stand out as its own beast. For starters, it has no corners or walls, much like Galaxy Fight but without all the runaway. Secondly, meter regens extremely fast, even when hitting metered moves. Third, the impacts feel GOOD. Hitting an uppercut or a roundhouse has the same feeling of power as in early Mortal Kombat games - sound design and some special moves included. As for some miscellanea: There are parries during blockstun, and meter can be used to make them easier. Also, taunts are central, as the buffs they give are non negligible: Niven, for example, can get unlimited meter for a short while after taunting thrice. Meter can also be used to make your special moves armored. And Niven has a command grab. Have fun defending against that lethal combination. In summary, an unhinged game that follows its own ideas and doubles down on them and DEFINITELY one of the indie fighting g…

Playing fighting games since the 90's and I can say in comparison to all of those, this game is really high up there in terms of how enjoyable it is. Of note (besides what isn't visible in the trailer, I think?), great tutorial and combo trial modes. Absolutely worth your time if you like punching and kicking fools. Also, made by a dev who has passion and is ingrained in the community. The whole package here is truly something special and noteworthy. \m/ 9/10!

This is a really good fighting game. I've only got about an hour in so far, but it's very stylish and well-polished so far. There's alot of good ideas here, like hold to cancel and no wall/corners. The animations are fluid and captivating, the battle system is intuitive and open to experimentation. You should get in on this early, because this is a gem of a game.

This game is a blast! So mortal kombat coded that I felt right at home.