Man, Sword of Sodan on the Genesis is one of those games that looks amazing at first glance—huge, detailed sprites, brutal sword swings, and enemies that actually bleed (which was kinda wild back then). But man, that first level hits you like a brick wall. You’ve got this massive sword, sure, but swinging it feels like you’re dragging a tree trunk through molasses. Timing is everything, and if you just button-mash, you’re toast.

The art style still holds up, though—gritty, almost Conan-esque fantasy with these hulking barbarians and weird, screeching monsters. And that music? Ominous synth drums that make every fight feel like a last stand. Just don’t expect it to go easy on you. Even the basic enemies can wreck you if you’re careless.

It’s one of those games where you either love the jank or rage-quit after the third death. But if you stick with it, there’s something weirdly satisfying about finally nailing the rhythm of combat. Just… maybe keep the reset button handy.