Best Female-Led Hack n’ Slash Games

Summary

Hack n’ slash games with female protagonists offer diverse playstyles and compelling stories.
Plushie From The Sky impresses with unique gameplay amidst some rough edges.
Female protagonists like Juliet Starling, Alice, and 2B shine in standout hack n’ slash games.

Regardless if players find joy in wreaking havoc or enjoy creating flawless sequences, there’s an undeniable sense of fulfillment when playing hack-and-slash games.

Instead of certain action-packed games such as “Dante’s Inferno” and “Bloody Spell,” which often reserve their female characters as optional or additional content, the games on this list feature women as the main characters right from the start. Regardless of whether you prefer to overwhelm opponents with rapid button presses for victory or meticulously plan your attacks for the most rewarding kills, these are some outstanding hack n’ slash games starring female leads.

10. Plushie From The Sky

Cute Meets Carnage In This Adorable RPG Hack n’ Slash

Platform(s): Windows
Released: May 6, 2024
Developer(s): Fishwind
Genre(s): Hack n’ Slash, RPG

In this charming and eccentric action game that resembles soulslike, players assume the character of a fallen angel, who is trying to return home by utilizing an assortment of endearing stuffed toy allies that double as weaponry. Each toy has unique talents at its disposal.

As a dedicated gamer, I must admit that the game, though brief, feels slightly unpolished in parts. Yet, it’s undeniably an impressive debut from the solo mastermind Fishwind. The game’s captivating anime-style aesthetics and engrossing narrative will undoubtedly leave players spellbound.

9. Blades Of Time

A Reboot That Outshines Its Predecessor

2012’s game, a spiritual sequel to “X Blades,” places players in the shoes of Ayumi, a daring adventurer, as she sets off on a journey to explore the mysteries hidden within a monster-infested island, in search of long-lost treasures.

Despite facing criticism for its ordinary narrative and subpar Nintendo Switch adaptation, the game shines through its innovative aspect of manipulating time to generate Ayumi clones, who can engage in combat alongside her. This unique feature adds a special touch to the overall experience. Playing around with the game in God Mode offers an enjoyable, mindless power fantasy of wielding swords.

8. Soulstice

An Engaging Tale Of Sisterly Love

2022’s game “Soulstice” casts players as a unique Chimera warrior, formed from the combined spirits of two sisters – the bold Briar and the spectral Lute. Tragically, Lute was sacrificed during their fusion. As a player, you’ll command both sides of this dual-natured character to battle the Wraiths, sinister entities who have twisted the once peaceful townsfolk into grotesque creatures.

Although the battle system reminiscent of Devil May Cry is not yet perfectly executed, the unbreakable connection between the two sisters creates a captivating and valuable narrative that’s well worth experiencing.

7. Alice: Madness Returns

A Twisted Wonderland Of Delights

Enthusiasts of the initial American McGee’s Alice were in for quite a cognitive thrill when its sequel debuted. This time around, we find Alice all grown up, revisiting Wonderland that has been corrupted by a malevolent substance called the Ruin, which poses a grave danger to everything noble and innocent within Alice’s fantastical realm.

This fast-moving, impactful game titled “Alice: Madness Returns” boasts breathtaking visuals, a compelling narrative that doesn’t shy away from tough themes, and an array of captivating outfits and deadly DLC weapons for those who love games with heroines from the past. It is definitely worth checking out for fans drawn to such titles.

6. BloodRayne

A Hypnotic Hack n’ Slash

In the game titled “BloodRayne“, players assume the role of Rayne – a half-vampire character living in the 1930s. Rayne is entrusted with the mission to eliminate various threats, such as zombies, demons, enormous spiders, and Nazis who aim to exploit supernatural forces for their own evil purposes.

The game offers an exhilarating blend of intense excitement, grisly imagery, and a captivating female vampire heroine.

5. Lollipop Chainsaw

A Dizzying Rainbow Romp Through The Zombie Apocalypse

In the game called “Lollipop Chainsaw,” players assume the character of Juliet Starling, a delightful and youthful teenager. Her eighteenth birthday is abruptly disrupted by a zombie invasion at her school. Armed with a sugary chainsaw and the reanimated head of her boyfriend Nick, players will revel in creating chaotic, shimmering destruction throughout the city as Juliet fights various zombie bosses themed around music.

Boasting an eye-catching soundtrack and a mischievous sense of fun, this revamped hack ‘n’ slash game is now available on contemporary systems as “Lollipop Chainsaw: Refreshed Edition“.

4. Heavenly Sword

A PS3 Stand-Out Deserving Of A Remaster

In this unique game exclusive for PS3, you’ll find yourself assuming the role of Nariko, a passionate-haired warrior, who takes on the task of brandishing the legendary Heavenly Sword in a struggle against a cruel monarch. Although the narrative may initially seem commonplace, it offers a complex tale with an exceptionally impactful conclusion.

You might find the game captivating not only for the compelling narrative but also for its breathtaking graphics, an interactive battle system offering three distinct combat styles, and entertaining gunplay experiences. As you delve into the world of Nariko’s sister, Kai, these elements will surely enhance your journey.

3. Stellar Blade

Stunning Visuals And Challenging Combat

2024’s “Stellar Blade” immerses players in an exhilarating tale where they must liberate Earth from a terrifying onslaught of adversaries, the ominous Naytibas. You’ll assume the role of Eve, a resolute and alluring protagonist dispatched from an extraterrestrial settlement to retake the planet. This journey will challenge you to confront some extremely tough choices.

As a gamer, I’ve found this game to deliver intense and captivating battles, coupled with stunning graphics that truly immerse you in the experience. However, some have pointed out that the narrative could use a bit more depth or excitement.

2. NieR: Automata

A Riveting Story With Brilliant Protagonists

In the game titled “NeiR: Automata“, you’ll encounter three playable characters; however, two of them are female Androids. The world is explored primarily through the perspective of the silver-haired 2B, who is embroiled in a perpetual conflict between Androids and Machines on a devastated Earth, her vision somewhat shielded throughout this endless war.

The game’s remarkable combat system, combined with its deeply impactful narrative, creates a memorable gaming journey for players, especially those fortunate enough to witness the emotionally stirring “E” ending of the game.

1. Bayonetta

Earns Its Place As A Giant Of The Genre

As a gaming enthusiast, I can confidently say that I’ve found my new favorite: Bayonetta, which claims the top spot for its exceptional mastery in the action genre. It offers intricate combat, one-of-a-kind adversaries, and finisher moves so satisfying they’ll leave you craving more. Stepping into the shoes of the enigmatic Bayonetta, a Umbra witch dripping with mystery, I’m tasked with obliterating hordes of angelic abominations while unraveling the secrets of my past. Armed with my trusty double-barreled Scarborough Fair guns, I’m ready to take on whatever this game throws at me!

The sharp humor, fashionable action sequences, and iconic protagonist in Bayonetta ensure that this game remains a cherished favorite among gamers.

2025-06-05 01:35