sakuna

Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin is a single‑player action‑adventure game developed by Airdorf, an independent studio from Japan, and published by Devolver Digital. The game originally launched for PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch in March 2020, followed by a Windows release in September 2022. It is a 2‑D side‑scroller that blends intense combat mechanics with elements of farming simulation, offering players a unique hybrid gameplay experience.

The story centers on a demigoddess of the harvest who awakens after a long sleep to discover that the land her people depend upon has withered and that the Kami of the Hot Spring, the Winter, and the Gods of the Sea and the Sun have betrayed her. To restore harmony and regain power, she must traverse a ruined world, confront hostile gods, and cultivate crops to sustain herself. The narrative weaves themes of duty, faith, and the fragile balance between civilization and nature.

Gameplay is rooted in fast‑paced melee combat, with the player using a sword or an axe while also tapping a rhythm‑based system to execute chain attacks. The farming mode allows the player to plant, grow, and harvest a variety of crops, which can be used as health items or traded. Progression unlocks new weapons, magical skills, and additional areas to explore, providing a mix of combat and strategic resource management.

Critics praised the game for its imaginative blend of genres, artistic visuals, and engaging story, while noting that the difficulty spikes in later stages can be challenging for newcomers. The game still retains a cult following among fans of innovative platformers and those who appreciate its crossover of mythology and agriculture.