Following the Success of Black Myth: Wukong, Numerous Soulslike Games Set to Launch in 2025
First up is The First Berserker: Khazan. Although it has just been released, this game has already generated significant excitement and strong impressions. The First Berserker remains true to the familiar Soulslike formula while introducing adjustments that make the gameplay more accessible without compromising the fundamental challenge of the genre. One of the intelligent improvements is the EXP collection system: even when failing against a boss, players still gain experience points – and if they manage to win, the rewards increase.
The Strongest Feature of The First Berserker is Its Combat System with Various Techniques: Perfect Dodges, Parrying, Stuns, Special Directions, and Upgradable Functions Enhance Gameplay Dynamics.
Each boss battle is designed to push players to their limits. Bosses typically have at least two phases, and some even feature multiple forms. While the visual design may not be groundbreaking, the combat experience against them is incredibly engaging. Additionally, the game encourages players to utilize combat techniques by rewarding skillful maneuvers such as perfect dodges. This system ensures that players not only focus on “surviving” but also learn how to engage in combat more effectively.
If the combat system is the bright spot, then the progression and upgrade system is the backbone. In The First Berserker, nearly every encounter allows for a unique type of currency. This system provides motivation for players as every activity yields rewards. However, it can sometimes overwhelm the experience. Even after playing for over 20 hours, many players still struggle to keep track of all these currencies. Compared to FromSoftware’s Soulslike titles, The First Berserker has a more coherent narrative. Each time players defeat a boss, they unlock a segment of the overarching story. Although it may lack distinctiveness, the game’s narrative is straightforward.
The gameplay is built in the distinctive style of FromSoftware – featuring numerous pathways and shortcuts that help players navigate the expansive world. However, environments like snowy mountains and ancient ruins can feel somewhat familiar, lacking unique identifiers. While it may not compare to Bloodborne or Sekiro, The First Berserker: Khazan is still a significant step forward in the Soulslike genre. The game maintains the distinctive challenges of this genre while introducing many improvements that reduce frustration for players.
