Code of Princess, developed by Studio Saizensen and published on PC by KOMODO, is an ambitious hybrid that blends side-scrolling beat-’em-up combat with RPG progression systems and anime-inspired storytelling. Originally released on handheld platforms before making its way to Steam, the game aims to capture the spirit of classic arcade brawlers while layering in character growth, equipment management, and narrative-driven structure. The result is a colorful and energetic action-RPG that embraces its eccentricities, even if it does not always execute every idea with perfect balance.
At its core, Code of Princess plays like a traditional 2D hack-and-slash brawler. Players move across horizontal stages filled with waves of enemies, chaining together light and heavy attacks, juggling foes in midair, and unleashing special abilities. One of its defining mechanics is the ability to shift between multiple “lanes” on the battlefield, adding a sense of depth to positioning. Rather than being confined to a single flat plane, characters can move forward or backward relative to the background, dodging attacks or lining up enemies strategically. This mechanic gives combat a dynamic feel and pays homage to classic titles such as Guardian Heroes, which clearly inspired its design.
Where Code of Princess differentiates itself from traditional arcade brawlers is in its RPG framework. Characters gain experience points from defeating enemies and completing stages, leveling up to increase core attributes such as strength, vitality, and agility. Players can allocate stat points to tailor builds toward offense, survivability, or balanced performance. In addition, a variety of equipment items—ranging from weapons to armor—further modify stats and introduce incremental progression. This system adds depth and customization, encouraging experimentation with different playstyles. However, it also introduces the possibility of grinding, as certain stages may require players to strengthen their characters before progressing comfortably.
The narrative follows Princess Solange, an exiled royal determined to reclaim her kingdom and confront the mysterious forces responsible for a surge of monstrous activity. She is joined by a diverse cast of allies, each with distinct personalities and combat styles. The story leans heavily into anime tropes, combining heroic fantasy with comedic self-awareness. Dialogue frequently oscillates between dramatic declarations and playful humor, giving the campaign a lighthearted tone even during intense battles. While the plot itself is relatively straightforward, the charm lies in its characters’ exaggerated personalities and lively interactions.
Visually, Code of Princess combines hand-drawn character sprites with 3D backgrounds. Character animations are expressive and fluid, emphasizing the individuality of each playable hero. Special attacks are accompanied by vibrant effects that inject energy into combat. However, the transition from its original handheld presentation to larger PC displays reveals some limitations. Background textures can appear less detailed, and certain visual elements may seem slightly dated. Even so, the game’s colorful art direction and distinctive character designs maintain an appealing aesthetic for fans of stylized fantasy action.
Combat pacing is brisk and accessible in the early stages. Basic combos are easy to learn, making the game approachable for newcomers to the genre. As the campaign progresses, enemy variety increases and encounters become more chaotic. Larger groups, ranged attackers, and tougher foes demand greater awareness of positioning and resource management. Despite the increasing difficulty, the combat loop can occasionally feel repetitive, especially in longer sessions where similar enemy types reappear across stages. The RPG progression system helps mitigate this by providing a sense of advancement, but it does not entirely eliminate the repetition inherent in its brawler structure.
Beyond the single-player story mode, Code of Princess includes additional modes that extend its replayability. Cooperative multiplayer allows players to tackle missions together, while competitive modes offer opportunities for versus matches. These features add longevity and variety, though the effectiveness of online play depends on community activity and connection stability. The inclusion of multiple playable characters with distinct move sets also encourages replaying stages to experiment with different combat approaches.
Ultimately, Code of Princess is a game driven by personality and nostalgia. It channels the spirit of classic side-scrolling action games while layering in RPG elements that add customization and progression. Although it may not fully refine every aspect of its hybrid design, its vibrant characters, energetic combat, and playful storytelling create an experience that stands apart from more conventional brawlers. For players who enjoy anime-inspired action and appreciate genre-blending experimentation, Code of Princess offers a colorful and engaging journey that celebrates its arcade roots while striving for modern depth.
Rating: 6/10
