Brawler games usually involve beating enemies with a flurry of punches and kicks, but Way of the Passive Fist instead focuses on the skillful deflection of intense violence. Players take control of the Wanderer, who roams the wastelands of a doomed planet, and fights against hordes of bandits and outlaws. The premise is incredibly basic, but it really only functions as a backdrop for the innovative gameplay. Instead of drawn out slug-fests, Way of the Passive Fist turns fights into rhythmic duels of evasion and blocking, until enemies are drained of stamina and can be taken out in a single poke.
The art design of Way of the Passive Fist takes on a familiar 90s arcade facade, with a heavy influence from Sega generation sprite-art. Bright and ostentatious colors fill the desert backdrop, as wave after wave of Mad Max-esque enemies attack the player. The soundtrack takes on a similar influence and features catch melodies and old-school synth work. Way of the Passive Fist essentially functions as a 90s arcade game, but with modern amenities.
Passive 2D Brawlers
'Way of the Passive Fist' Turns Focuses on Defensive Combat in the Wasteland
Trend Themes
1. Defensive Combat - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating a new genre of brawler games that focus on skillful deflection rather than offensive attacks.
2. Rhythmic Duels - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introducing a new gameplay mechanic in which fights are conducted as rhythmic duels of evasion and blocking rather than slug-fests.
3. 90s Arcade Revival - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Capitalizing on the nostalgia for 90s arcade games by creating modern versions with updated amenities.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing new brawler games that offer innovative gameplay mechanics to cater to a wider audience.
2. Art and Design - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporating retro arcade aesthetics in various art and design projects to evoke nostalgia and attract customers.
3. Entertainment and Media - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Expanding the market for arcade-style games and incorporating retro elements in popular media to engage consumers.