A top-down action RPG in which a sick wanderer explores a ruined world. It tells its story without a single word of dialogue.
L1What it is
The Drifter, suffering from an illness, explores a land ruined by an ancient catastrophe. There is no dialogue; the story is told through images, mural-like visions and the environment.
L2How it plays
Fast sword combat, a dash that chains, and guns that recharge when you hit enemies with the sword. Combat is demanding and precise. Exploration is rewarding, with hidden paths and secrets everywhere.
L3Pixels & sound
The pixel art is breathtaking: vivid pinks, teals and purples, ruined giants and huge landscapes. The soundtrack by Disasterpeace is haunting.
L4Coming back
New Game+ and additional modes, plus secrets you might have missed. Local co-op for two players.
L5Value & tech
Verified on Steam Deck, runs on anything. Controller recommended.
Power-ups
- Stunning pixel art
- Tight, fast combat
- Atmospheric wordless story
- Haunting soundtrack
Game overs
- Story can be too vague
- Difficulty spikes in some fights
Score sheet
- Gameplay 30%
- 8.6
- Feel & controls 20%
- 9.2
- Pixels & sound 20%
- 9.6
- Replay 15%
- 7.0
- Value 15%
- 8.4
Weighted: 8.6 × 30% + 9.2 × 20% + 9.6 × 20% + 7.0 × 15% + 8.4 × 15% = 8.65, shown as 8.7.
The verdict
Verdict
Hyper Light Drifter is a masterpiece of mood and art, with combat to match. It explains nothing, but it shows you a world you will not forget.
By the Game Pick Review editorial desk · Updated 3 Oct 2026 · How we score · Spotted an error?
