The phrase identifies interactive entertainment titles that share key characteristics with Heart Machine’s 2016 action role-playing game. These characteristics often include a pixel-art aesthetic, challenging combat focused on precise movement and timing, a melancholic atmosphere, and a narrative conveyed primarily through visual storytelling rather than extensive dialogue. An example would be a game featuring a lone protagonist exploring a ruined world, battling formidable enemies with a focus on dodging and utilizing limited resources, all presented in a top-down perspective with striking pixel art.
The appeal of these related games lies in their ability to evoke a sense of mystery and isolation, rewarding player skill and perseverance. They offer a unique blend of old-school difficulty and modern design sensibilities. Historically, games drawing inspiration from classics like The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past have consistently found a dedicated audience, suggesting a sustained interest in this style of gameplay and aesthetic.