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F.I.S.T: Forged In Shadow Torch’s recent PC launch is giving a whole new audience a chance to discover TiGames’ unique Dieselpunk action game. Set in the shadows of Torch City, this metroidvania sees you take on the role of former soldier Rayton, who must rescue his friend Urso after they’re kidnapped by the city’s occupying force, the Legion.
Now if you think you know where this is going, think again. For starters, Rayton is actually an anthropomorphic rabbit, whose main weapon in the fight against the Legion is their absolutely massive metal fist. In fact, every character in the game is an animal, which gives a surreal and unmistakable quality to the game’s world, as you begin to learn and care about the game’s characters.
Likewise, the game boasts a large, interconnected world that encourages exploration as you start to discover the larger mysteries at the heart of the game’s story, alongside a combat system that keeps you on your toes (ahem, sorry, paws) with new combos and moves liberally dished out as Rayton gets further into their quest.
Before you head into Torch City though, here’s an overview of 5 of the game’s most intriguing characters, and the ones you’ll be desperate to meet when you first enter Torch City.
Rayton
The leading hero, Rayton, used to be a member of the resistance when the Legion first invaded Torch City, but they’re drawn back into the action when their friend - and old brother-in-arms - Urso is captured by the Legion. He’s no-nonsense but caring, and it really can’t be overstated just how fun it is to pummel things with his giant iron fist.
Urso
This loveable bear is at the heart of the game’s plot, as his capture sets Rayton on a rescue mission. Urso is a tinkerer, constantly creating gadgets and modifying gadgets for his friends, and the fact he gives Rayton a radio at the start of the game shows that his love for crafting burns as strongly as ever. That can also be seen once you rescue Urso mid-way through the game, as you’ll be able to exchange secret posters you find hidden across the game with him for Weapon Paints. Those Weapon Paints even include some lovely nods to the team’s favorite films, games, and anime.
Lady Q
This feline fatale runs rings around Rayton regularly, a mysterious figure who is just as likely to stand in his way as she is to help him. That doesn’t mean she’s an adversary though, and you’ll want to learn more about her connection with the big secret behind Torch City as you move through the story.
Bovi
Rayton’s former commander and the leader of a group of exiles in the Western Range, who escaped Torch City to set up a new base there. While Bovi’s best days might be behind him, he still cares deeply for the people under his command and will do anything to ensure they don’t come in harm’s way.
Another former comrade of Rayton’s, but Duke’s intentions are less clear cut. Since the end of the war, Duke has become the head of the Rat Gang, working with Torch City’s occupying forces to keep a semblance of peace. He claims he wants to help Rayton stop whatever the Legion is planning, but can he really be trusted? Well, you know there’s only one way of finding out and that’s delving into Torch City yourself...
F.I.S.T: Forged In Shadow Torch is out now for PC, PS4, and PS5. You can grab a copy from Steam now and learn more by visiting the F.I.S.T Facebook page.
