The First Berserker Khazan Review (PlayStation 5, PS5)
Summary: The First Berserker: Khazan is a standout title that successfully blends challenging gameplay, stunning visuals, and atmospheric audio to create a compelling experience for fans of the Souls-like genre
4
Standout!
The First Berserker: Khazan is a gripping addition to the Souls-like genre, offering players a challenging yet rewarding experience. Set in the Dungeon & Fighter universe, the game follows the story of Khazan, a betrayed general seeking vengeance after being falsely branded a traitor. With its intricate combat mechanics, compelling visuals, and atmospheric audio, The First Berserker: Khazan definitely ticks all the right boxes for a fun next-gen experience on the PlayStation 5.
The gameplay is where The First Berserker truly shines, delivering a brutal yet satisfying combat system that demands precision and strategy. Players can choose from three distinct weapon types: the powerful greatsword, the nimble spear, or the aggressive dual blades, each offering a transformative playstyle. It’s brutal to say the least, in the game and sometimes in the real world, especially when you’re getting your ass handed to you.
The combat is heavily reliant on blocking, parrying, and dodging, creating an intense and immersive experience that challenges players to master their timing and reflexes. While the difficulty may be daunting for newcomers to the genre, seasoned Souls-like fans will appreciate the depth and complexity of the mechanics. Further the game uses a multifaceted progression system, allowing players to customize Khazan’s abilities through skill trees that enhance basic attacks, stamina managemen, and special moves.
The mission-based structure of the game which supports the narrative provides a linear yet engaging experience, with each level offering a distinct aesthetic and set of challenges. From snowy mountain peaks to rustic villages and dark mines, the environments are visually diverse and meticulously designed that make exploration a joy. Optional side missions add replayability, though they often revisit areas with revised enemy types and duplicated boss fights. Nonetheless, fun to say the least.
Despite the relative linear and cliched progression, the game rewards exploration with new gear, collectibles, and upgrade materials, encouraging players to venture off the beaten path. The hub area, known as The Crevice, serves as a visually intriguing sanctuary where players can manage their inventory, craft items and interact with NPCs, though it lacks the depth to foster further narrative development.
Graphics & Audio
Visually, The First Berserker: Khazan boasts a painterly, cel-shaded art style that sets it apart from other titles in the genre. The environments are rich in detail, creating a dark fantasy world that feels both immersive and haunting. The character designs are equally impressive, with Khazan’s armor and weaponry reflecting his transformation into a formidable warrior. However, the art direction occasionally falters in the later stages of the campaign, with some visuals becoming a little dull but for the most part, it is impressive.
The audio design complements the game’s visuals and gameplay, with a soaring orchestral score that heightens the tension and drama of each encounter. The voice acting is particularly noteworthy, with Ben Starr delivering a powerful performance as Khazan and Anthony Hell bringing depth to the enigmatic Blade Phantom. The sound effects are equally impactful, from the clash of weapons to the guttural roars of enemies, immersing players in the brutal and unforgiving world of The First Berserker.
Final Thoughts?
The First Berserker: Khazan is a standout title that successfully blends challenging gameplay, stunning visuals, and atmospheric audio to create a compelling experience for fans of the Souls-like genre. While its narrative may lack depth and its linear structure may disappoint some players, the game’s strengths far outweigh its shortcomings. For those willing to embrace its difficulty and adapt to its mechanics, The First Berserker: Khazan offers an unforgettable journey of vengeance and redemption.
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