Along the way, players learn special powers from large shrines, from simple melee attacks to the harnessing of Light and Dark energy.

Players can also collect hidden objects called "Masks of the Gods" in order to unlock extras such as concept art or enhanced in-game abilities.

Arcade scores increase with multipliers that drop from enemies, and a bonus is given depending on how much time is left after the protector is defeated.

Back in the present day, the man explores four areas branching from the Crossroads: the Jungle, the Underworld, the City, and the Sky.

Each area is populated by a variety of creatures born from Light, Dark, or neutral energies, as well as one large protector that has been corrupted by Chaos.

After traversing the Temple, the man meets the Sisters, who have been waiting to break free from their imprisonment to "uncreate" the world and return it to Chaos.

"[21][22] The Escapist gave the Xbox 360 version a score of four stars out of five and said that it "will put your skills to the test, but strikes a pleasant balance between frustration and triumph.

Club gave it a B and stated, "Boss battles are another highlight, a great example being a robed figure who can unpredictably cause colored rubble to come whizzing by from any direction.

"[34] Wired gave the PlayStation 3 version a score of eight stars out of ten in its early review and called it "a tumultuous blend of Prince of Persia-style jumping action and the "bullet hell" of insane shooters like Ikaruga.