Hanako: Honor & Blade

90%
Game Brain Score Based on 70 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • music
Hanako: Honor & Blade Game Cover
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Hanako: Honor & Blade is a samurai-themed multiplayer game set in feudal Japan. Choose from multiple character classes, each with unique abilities, and engage in strategic team-based combat in various game modes. Experience the beauty and brutality of medieval Japan as you fight to restore honor and balance to the realm.

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Reviews

90%
Audience ScoreBased on 70 reviews
gameplay7 positive mentions
atmosphere3 negative mentions
  • The game features beautiful graphics and a unique art style reminiscent of traditional Japanese paintings, enhancing the overall experience.
  • Combat mechanics are engaging and fun, with a variety of classes that offer different playstyles, making each match feel unique.
  • The developers are dedicated and actively engage with the community, frequently updating the game and hosting events to encourage player participation.
  • The player base is very low, often resulting in matches filled with bots instead of real players, which diminishes the overall experience.
  • The game still requires significant polish, particularly in combat mechanics and hit detection, which can feel clunky at times.
  • As an early access title, the game lacks certain features like customization options and a campaign mode, which may deter some players.
  • gameplay14 mentions

    The gameplay is praised for its smooth mechanics, easy accessibility, and depth, allowing players to enjoy both casual and competitive experiences. The combat is fast-paced and engaging, featuring unique fighting styles and a respectful approach to physics, particularly in archery. Overall, players appreciate the game's fun medieval theme, gorgeous graphics, and the dedication of the small development team.

    • “I love these kinds of sword fighting games that are easy to play, with skillful mechanics.”
    • “The game mechanics are smooth and there is a learning curve for each of the three classes you can play.”
    • “Easy to pick up and learn but also some depth for those who want to truly master their class mechanics.”
    • “The gameplay... hoooooo boy.”
    • “When I had my first few games, I expected broken mechanics or obvious imbalance of the classes.”
    • “So much has been improved since my first review, from game mechanics to visuals.”
  • graphics14 mentions

    The graphics of the game have received high praise for their beautiful art style, reminiscent of traditional Japanese paintings, and smooth performance. Players appreciate the cell-shaded visuals and the overall aesthetic, which enhances the immersive experience of the game. Despite being in early access and developed by a small team, the quality of the graphics stands out, contributing to the game's charm and appeal.

    • “Especially the art style, which had me walking around the maps the first time I played, just admiring the beauty and love put into this game.”
    • “I love the art style, and the maps are truly beautiful.”
    • “The game is made by a small team of people, and I gotta say, the game has surprisingly good quality for an indie game in its early access state. The graphics look like a 3D traditional Japanese painting animated and are really quite good.”
    • “So much has been improved since my first review from game mechanics to visuals.”
  • music8 mentions

    The music in the game is widely praised for its ability to enhance the atmosphere and immerse players in the setting, particularly with its traditional sounds that complement the action. Reviewers appreciate the energetic and fantastic quality of the soundtrack, which aligns well with the game's artistic direction and overall experience.

    • “The cell shaded visuals are pretty and the music does a good job of injecting some energy and atmosphere.”
    • “The traditional music which plays in the background can help to immerse you in the game as well as the sounds of the sword being drawn, the naginata delivering a blow, and the sound of the ninja's kusarigama flying through the air.”
    • “The art style is fabulous and the music is truly fantastic.”
    • “The traditional music that plays in the background can help to immerse you in the game, along with the sounds of the sword being drawn, the naginata delivering a blow, and the sound of the ninja's kusarigama flying through the air.”
    • “I just started, and while the fighting is great, the meditation is even better, but the music is a disappointment.”
  • replayability2 mentions

    Players highlight the game's high replayability due to its diverse character features, unique maps, and various game modes, ensuring a fresh experience with each match. The combination of these elements contributes to an endless replay value.

    • “The replayability is fantastic, offering new experiences with each playthrough.”
    • “There are so many different ways to play that you'll always find something new to enjoy.”
    • “Endless replay value; a bunch of different character features, unique maps, game modes, and experiences every match.”
    • “Replayability is also there.”
  • atmosphere2 mentions

    The game's cell-shaded visuals are visually appealing, complemented by an energetic soundtrack that enhances the overall atmosphere.

    • “The cel-shaded visuals are stunning, and the music does an excellent job of injecting energy and atmosphere.”
    • “The atmosphere feels lifeless and uninspired, making it hard to immerse myself in the game world.”
    • “Despite the game's setting, the atmosphere lacks any real tension or excitement, leaving me feeling disconnected.”
    • “The visuals are stunning, but the atmosphere is flat and fails to evoke any emotional response.”
  • monetization1 mentions

    The monetization model includes optional cosmetic in-game purchases priced mostly under $5, which players feel are reasonable and support the developers. Additionally, it's recommended to wait for sales to purchase the game at a more satisfactory price.

    • “There are cosmetic in-game purchases available for under $5, and I would honestly buy them just to support the developers.”
    • “If you're considering buying the game, I recommend waiting for a sale to get an incredibly satisfactory price.”
    • “The monetization model is fair and allows players to enjoy the game without feeling pressured to spend money.”
    • “The monetization model feels exploitative, with constant prompts to spend money on in-game purchases that don't enhance the gameplay experience.”
    • “It's frustrating to see that the game is designed around pushing microtransactions, making it hard to enjoy without feeling pressured to spend more.”
    • “While there are cosmetic purchases available, the overall monetization strategy detracts from the enjoyment of the game, as it feels like a cash grab.”
  • humor1 mentions

    The game effectively balances humor and seriousness, providing players with a hilarious and enjoyable experience while also incorporating moments of depth.

    • “This game is hilarious and fun, but can be serious at certain times too!”
    • “The humor in this game is top-notch, with clever writing that keeps you laughing.”
    • “I love how the game balances humor with its storyline, making every moment enjoyable.”
  • emotional1 mentions

    Players find the game's emotional depth compelling, particularly appreciating the heartfelt backstory that inspired its creation.

    • “The source of this game is heartfelt; when you learn what inspired its creation.”
    • “The emotional depth of the characters truly resonated with me, making their journeys feel personal.”
    • “I was moved to tears by the story; it beautifully captures the complexities of love and loss.”
  • story1 mentions

    The story of the game is influenced by the developers' previous work, suggesting a deeper narrative context that may enhance the overall experience.

    • “The story is incredibly immersive and keeps you engaged from start to finish.”
    • “The character development throughout the narrative is exceptional, making you truly care about their journeys.”
    • “The plot twists are unexpected and add depth to the overall experience, leaving you wanting more.”
    • “Honestly, look into the story of the developers' previous work before making this game.”
    • “The plot felt disjointed and lacked any real depth or engagement.”
    • “Character development was minimal, making it hard to care about their journeys.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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