Furi
Furi is a fast-paced, challenging action game developed and published by The Game Bakers, an independent game studio based in Montpellier, France. The game was released in 2016 for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, with a later port for Nintendo Switch.
Gameplay
In Furi, players take control of a mysterious warrior who must fight his way to freedom by defeating a series of powerful guardians.
- Boss Rush: The game is structured as a series of intense, one-on-one boss battles, each with its own unique moves and strategies.
- Combat: The fast-paced combat system combines sword-fighting, shooting, and precise timing to parry attacks and find openings to strike.
- Difficulty: Furi is known for its high level of difficulty, with each boss battle requiring quick reflexes, pattern recognition, and perseverance to overcome.
The game features a striking, neon-infused art style, with character designs by renowned artist Takashi Okazaki (Afro Samurai) and a pulsing electronic soundtrack that perfectly complements the intense action.
Story and Setting
Furi takes place in a surreal, sci-fi inspired world where the player character, a silent warrior, must fight his way through a series of arenas to regain his freedom.
Between each boss battle, the warrior engages in cryptic conversations with a mysterious figure known as The Voice, who reveals fragments of the warrior's past and the reasons behind his imprisonment.
Reception
Furi received positive reviews upon release, with praise directed at its challenging, satisfying combat, stunning visual style, and pulse-pounding soundtrack. Critics noted that while the game's difficulty may be off-putting for some players, it offers a rewarding experience for those who persevere.
The game was nominated for several awards, including Best Action Game at The Game Awards 2016 and Best Indie Game at the Golden Joystick Awards 2016.
Fun Facts
- The Game Bakers drew inspiration from a variety of sources when creating Furi, including Japanese games like No More Heroes and Metal Gear Solid, as well as the anime Samurai Champloo and the film Drive.
- The game's soundtrack features contributions from several notable electronic musicians, including Carpenter Brut, Danger, and The Toxic Avenger.
- In addition to the standard difficulty mode, Furi features a Furier difficulty mode that unlocks after completing the game, offering an even greater challenge for skilled players.
Furi stands as a testament to the power of focused, well-executed game design, delivering an unforgettable experience that combines intense action, striking visuals, and a pulsing soundtrack. Its success showcases the talent and vision of the team at The Game Bakers.