The Hidden Ones – A Martial Arts Adventure with Depth

INTRODUCTION

I've always been a fan of action-packed fighting games, especially those that incorporate martial arts with a strong storyline. When I came across The Hidden Ones, I was immediately intrigued. Based on the popular Chinese webcomic Yi Ren Zhi Xia: The Outcast (which also inspired the anime Hitori no Shita: The Outcast), this game offers a unique mix of traditional martial arts and supernatural elements. After spending several hours with it, I can confidently say that The Hidden Ones is shaping up to be an exciting title, though there are a few areas that could be refined.

VISUALS AND ART STYLE

One of the first things that stood out to me was the game’s stunning visuals. The character models are detailed, and the animation feels smooth and natural. Every punch, kick, and special move is fluid, making battles feel incredibly immersive. The environments are also well-crafted, blending ancient Chinese aesthetics with modern fantasy elements. Whether fighting in dimly lit alleyways or mystical temples, the attention to detail in the backgrounds adds to the game’s atmosphere.

The character designs stay true to the original webcomic and anime. Fans of the series will appreciate how faithfully the developers have recreated the characters, from their outfits to their unique fighting styles. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the source material, the designs are distinct and visually appealing.

GAMEPLAY AND COMBAT MECHANICS

At its core, The Hidden Ones is all about skill-based combat. Unlike many modern action RPGs that rely on level-ups and gear progression, this game focuses entirely on player skill. Every fight is about mastering your character’s moves, reading your opponent, and timing your attacks perfectly. This makes every encounter feel rewarding—when you land a perfect counter or execute a flawless combo, it’s purely because of your skill, not because you have better stats.

The game features multiple fighting styles, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some characters are quick and agile, relying on speed and counterattacks, while others are slower but hit harder. Learning the different styles and how to counter them is part of the fun.

One thing I really appreciated was the supernatural abilities woven into the combat. While the fighting styles are grounded in real martial arts, the game also introduces elements like energy-based attacks, teleportation, and other supernatural skills. These add an extra layer of strategy to the battles, making them more dynamic and unpredictable.

GAME MODES AND FEATURES

There are a few different modes to explore in The Hidden Ones:

Story Mode – This follows the main character’s journey through a world of martial arts and supernatural mysteries. The narrative is engaging, filled with intense rivalries, betrayals, and hidden powers.

PvP Mode – This is where the game really shines. Facing off against real players in 1v1 duels tests your skills in a way that AI opponents simply can’t. The matchmaking system does a decent job of pairing you with players of similar skill levels.

Training Mode – If you’re new to the game or just want to refine your skills, the training mode lets you practice combos and strategies without the pressure of a real fight.

SOUND AND MUSIC

The sound design in The Hidden Ones is another highlight. The sound effects are punchy and impactful, making every hit feel satisfying. The soundtrack blends traditional Chinese instruments with modern beats, creating a unique vibe that complements the game’s setting. Voice acting is also present, adding depth to the characters and making the story moments more immersive.

PROS✅  AND CONS ❌

PROS: ✅

✅ Amazing visuals – Detailed character designs and fluid animations.
✅ Skill-based combat – No reliance on levels or gear; it’s all about player ability.
✅ Engaging story mode – A narrative that keeps you invested.
✅ Exciting PvP battles – 1v1 duels that test your skills.
✅ Unique supernatural abilities – Adds depth and variety to fights.

CONS: ❌

❌ Steep learning curve – New players may struggle at first due to the skill-based nature.
❌ Limited content (for now) – The game is still in development, so there aren’t many characters or stages yet.
❌ Occasional balancing issues – Some fighting styles feel stronger than others, but this may be adjusted in future updates.




FINAL THIUGHTS

Overall, The Hidden Ones is shaping up to be a fantastic martial arts action game. The combat is fluid, strategic, and skill-based, making every fight feel rewarding. The art style and sound design add to the immersive experience, while the story and PvP modes offer plenty of content to explore. While there are some balancing issues and a steep learning curve, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise solid experience.

If you’re a fan of fighting games, martial arts, or action-packed stories, this is definitely a game worth keeping an eye on. I can’t wait to see how it evolves as development continues.

⭐ RATING: 8.5/10