Back in the day, someone at Sega must have forgotten to tell the Genesis that it was being replaced because the console simply won’t quit. Honestly, I’ve done more of these Teasers articles this year than I can remember, and it seems like there are almost as many titles in development for the console as there were back in the mid-1990s. I’m not complaining, mind you, as I want to buy them all. I’m pretty up to date on most new releases, and I’m always checking on the latest status reports given by all the great studios working on new software.
For that reason, I was surprised when I heard about NightVein, an upcoming top-down action game by Retro Hammer that’s set in a world shared by humans and vampires. Players take on the role of Ezequiel, a member of the Almighty, which serves God and combats evil. Apparently, they aren’t allowed to have relationships, and when Ezequiel’s forbidden love with Eve is discovered, he is betrayed by his brothers and buried alive. As his heart burns with rage, he begs God for one last request: revenge!
The game focuses on fast-paced combat that combines melee and ranged attacks. Ezequiel dual-wields a handgun and an axe, and his quick movements and lethal axe combos create exciting battles against a multitude of undead enemies. He can’t jump, but he does have a handy dash move that allows him to cross small ravines. Reto Hammer has implemented some sneaky platforming that requires a good grasp of the dash mechanic, and it takes a bit of getting used to. Once you’ve got it down though, you’ll be zipping around easily to avoid enemy projectiles as well.
The demo level has only two enemy types, but they hit hard! There are a few breakable barrels that can be found in the area that replenish a bit of life; however, they’re sparse, and enemies do respawn. A few continues help, but I couldn’t help but feel like Retro Hammer took some inspiration from Bloodbourne for the gameplay and difficulty. Along with the gothic, vampire-like atmosphere, the dual weapon dynamic is reminiscent of From Software’s classic, and I’m OK with that. I hope to see more of the dark urban horror aesthetic in the game’s other levels.
Developed by a two-man team, NightVein (not to be confused with the interactive fiction detective story currently coming soon for PC from Inkenblood Studios) is programmed by Wesley Marques while Yargo Vasconcelos handles the artwork. NightVein’s dark and broody soundtrack will be the work of Diggo Silva, and the theme that plays through the demo stage is quite good. I look forward to hearing the rest of what he’s working on.
A demo is currently available, and I’ve liked what we’ve played thus far. Release is tentatively set for December 2025. Sega-16 will have a full preview when more of the game is available, as well as a complete review upon release.
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