Demon Sword: Incubus

Awesome hack and slash. Combat feels really nice. After applying the patch you've to enable R-18 mode in the Settings menu though.
You get the usual grab/defeat 'special' scenes. Even if you play it in All Ages mode you can see the scenes later in the Gallery after enabling R-18 mode.
The initial introductory screen where the soldiers are in a different style than the anime characters made me worry a bit, but I can say I'm enjoying the game a lot. Definitively satisfied with my purchase.

Had my eyes on this game for a long time and finally got to try it. It is a very short game but highly enjoyable. Flashy combos, challenging bosses especially towards the end , and a cute n sexy protagonist. If those are what you are looking for then the game is for you. Recommended on sale, not full price. Oh and make sure to install the R18 patch and enable it from the in-game settings. Have fun!

Demon Sword: Incubus is an action RPG developed by Brianode and published by Eroge Japan that blends side-scrolling combat, character progression, and dark fantasy storytelling into a surprisingly ambitious indie package. Set in a kingdom overwhelmed by a demonic invasion, the game follows Amila, a young noblewoman who finds herself forced into a desperate struggle after her homeland falls into chaos. Her greatest weapon becomes a mysterious sword inhabited by an incubus, granting immense power while tying her fate to a dangerous supernatural force. This premise creates a compelling backdrop for an adventure centered on revenge, survival, and the fight to reclaim a shattered world.
The story may not reinvent fantasy storytelling, but it succeeds in providing a strong motivation for the player’s journey. As Amila searches for answers and battles through hordes of enemies, she encounters allies and adversaries who help flesh out the setting and its ongoing conflict. The narrative maintains a steady pace and serves as an effective framework for the action, keeping the focus on the protagonist’s growth while gradually revealing more about the demonic threat consuming the kingdom.
Combat is unquestionably the game's strongest feature. Rather than relying solely on simple hack-and-slash mechanics, Demon Sword: Incubus incorporates elements commonly found in fighting games. Players can execute special moves through directional inputs, perform defensive maneuvers, evade attacks, counter enemies, and create lengthy combo chains. The result is a combat system that rewards practice and experimentation. Battles feel fast, responsive, and satisfying, especially once players begin unlocking additional abilities and learning how different mechanics interact with one another.
The variety of offensive options helps keep encounters engaging throughout the adventure. Amila can utilize both sword techniques and magical abilities, allowing players to switch between aggressive close-range attacks and ranged spellcasting depending on the situation. Larger enemy groups encourage crowd-control tactics, while stronger opponents demand careful timing and precision. Boss encounters stand out as some of the game's most memorable moments, often requiring players to master defensive techniques and identify openings before unleashing powerful combinations.
Progression systems add another layer of depth. Defeated enemies grant experience points that contribute to leveling up, while talent points allow players to customize Amila’s development. Different builds can emphasize physical attacks, magical strength, or balanced versatility. This flexibility gives players a sense of ownership over their character while ensuring that advancement feels meaningful throughout the campaign. The inclusion of tutorial and training modes is also a welcome addition, making the more advanced combat mechanics easier to understand and master.
Visually, the game adopts a colorful anime-inspired style that prioritizes expressive character designs and flashy combat effects. Amila receives considerable attention in terms of customization, with unlockable outfits and cosmetic options available through the dressing room system. While environmental design and technical presentation reflect the limitations of a smaller-budget production, the overall art direction remains appealing and succeeds in supporting the fantasy atmosphere. Combat animations are generally clear and energetic, helping maintain the excitement during intense encounters.
The game also embraces fan-service elements as part of its overall aesthetic. Character designs and outfit options lean heavily into anime-inspired styling, which may appeal to players who enjoy that approach while potentially feeling less appealing to those seeking a more serious fantasy presentation. Fortunately, these elements never completely overshadow the action gameplay, which remains the primary focus throughout the experience.
Despite its strengths, Demon Sword: Incubus is not without shortcomings. The storyline occasionally feels predictable, and some players may wish for greater enemy variety or more elaborate world-building. Certain aspects of the presentation reveal the limitations of an indie development budget, particularly when compared to larger action RPG releases. However, these issues rarely undermine the core gameplay loop, which remains entertaining thanks to its depth, customization, and satisfying combat mechanics.
Ultimately, Demon Sword: Incubus succeeds by offering far more mechanical complexity than many players might initially expect. Its blend of side-scrolling action, RPG progression, combo-driven combat, and character customization creates an experience that is both accessible and rewarding. While it may not achieve the polish of genre leaders, it delivers enough engaging gameplay and personality to earn a place among enjoyable indie action RPGs. Fans of anime-themed adventures and combat-focused games will likely find plenty to appreciate in Amila’s journey against the forces of darkness.
Rating: 7/10