An upcoming indie game inspired by action films like The Raid aims to deliver the brutal hand-to-hand combat that made the film famous. It might even draw comparisons to 2012's underrated gem, Sleeping Dogs. The game is titled Acts of Blood, and while it doesn't have a release date yet, a free demo recently dropped on Steam, allowing players to dive into a segment of its main storyline.
Players take on the role of Hendra, an Indonesian college student seeking vengeance after his father is murdered by a business rival. When the corrupt legal system fails to bring the killers to justice, Hendra takes matters into his own hands. The gameplay showcases fast-paced, bloody melee combat, with Hendra seamlessly transitioning from punches and kicks to wielding weapons like bats, knives, hammers, and machetes. Although firearms are available, the focus seems to be on the visceral hand-to-hand fighting.
The environment plays a significant role in combat, with Hendra using parkour to navigate levels, sliding, climbing, and even using destructible objects as weapons. The developer, Eksil Team, isn't holding back on the brutality. The Steam description warns of blood, gore, and dismemberment, with violence being a frequent and integral part of the gameplay experience, featuring detailed and realistic combat injuries.
Acts of Blood proudly wears its The Raid inspiration on its sleeve. The 2011 film, known for its bone-crunching fights, shares the same setting in Indonesia. The game's emphasis on melee combat also brings Sleeping Dogs to mind, another action title known for its over-the-top environmental kills inspired by Hong Kong action films. Additionally, Sifu, a more recent beat-'em-up, seems to have influenced Acts of Blood, though the 2022 game is less blood-soaked.
The demo includes an arena mode for honing combat skills and outfit customization for tailoring Hendra's appearance. Acts of Blood is currently available for wishlisting on Steam.
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