The First Berserker: Khazan, developed by Neople and published by Nexon, is quickly emerging as a prominent entry in the Soulslike genre, blending dark fantasy elements with a rich action-RPG experience. Set to be released on March 27, 2025, the game invites players to step into the boots of Khazan, a once celebrated general betrayed by his empire.
Kicking off an engaging narrative, players find Khazan in exile, gravely injured and waiting for his days to wane. An avalanche suddenly frees him, awakening a dark entity, the Blade Phantom, which imbuels him with renewed vigor and supernatural abilities, prompting him into a quest for vengeance.
Unlike many other titles in this competitive genre, Khazan's story and combat mechanics are intricately woven, allowing for an immersive experience that balances rich lore with intense gameplay. The narrative is multifaceted, providing a compelling backdrop as players traverse a war-torn landscape reminiscent of classic dark fantasies. This journey through anguish and revenge includes interactions with a colorful cast of characters residing in The Crevice, a hub where players manage their gear and prepare for the harrowing challenges ahead.
The combat is the standout feature of The First Berserker: Khazan. It is finely tuned with a focus on technical skill, boasting three distinct weapon types: a dual-wielded sword-and-axe for nimble attacks, a massive Guts-inspired greatsword for powerful blows, and a spear for swift and graceful combat. Critics have noted that each weapon has its unique skill tree, echoing the depth found in other acclaimed action-RPGs.
Skill points in this game are capped to main quest completions, creating a strategic environment where players must learn to navigate extensive boss encounters effectively to progress. This design choice encourages players to perfect their abilities and deepen their understanding of the game mechanics.
"Every death that was once met with confusion and irritation has become a learning experience I look forward to absorbing," one review stated, showcasing how the game transforms frustration into a rewarding progression loop for players eager to conquer each formidable foe.
Challenges come in abundance, with the boss fights considered among the most satisfying experiences within the genre. Players will face towering enemies, each requiring a deep knowledge of attack patterns and responsive gameplay to bring them down. "This dark entity, the Blade Phantom, is the proverbial devil that sits upon Khazan’s shoulder," summarizes a reviewer, underlining the internal struggle that enhances the thematic richness of the story.
Visually, The First Berserker: Khazan captivates with stunning anime-inspired graphics, a notable departure from typical gritty dark fantasy visuals. Each environment, from snow-laden mountains to corrupted temples, has been meticulously crafted, providing a feast for the eyes. Critics agree that the soundtrack further elevates the atmosphere, threading emotional cues through each battle and exploration.
Despite its competitive strengths, some aspects earn critiques, particularly regarding its narrative scope. Critics have pointed out that while the gameplay captivates, the overarching story can feel thin and at times derivative, relying heavily on familiar tropes found in many revenge tales. However, as one noted, "Khazan's story is worthily multifaceted," suggesting that while it may not break new ground, it successfully lays a solid foundation for its gameplay.
Accessing The Crevice serves not only as a base of operations but also as a narrative springboard for Khazan, where players manage gear and augmentations crucial for the battles that lie ahead. The introduction of an easy mode aims to provide an entry point for newcomers, but players will find that switching difficulties may impose restrictions on gameplay options.
Players are rewarded for their efforts, as the game allows earning experience points from each unsuccessful attempt at defeating a boss. This mechanic creates an environment where failure contributes to future success, encouraging experimentation with various strategies and playstyles.
As The First Berserker: Khazan nears release, expectations are high, with players anticipating a challenging yet rewarding journey. If the developers successfully meld their unique style with the Soulslike tradition, the game not only stands a chance at satisfying die-hard fans but also capturing the interest of a new audience eager for engaging, visceral gameplay.
In summary, The First Berserker: Khazan emerges as a thoughtful and rewarding addition to the action-RPG landscape, presenting players with an unforgettable adventure underpinned by rich narratives and thrilling combat. This game is poised to meet the needs of Soulslike aficionados while inviting newcomers to uncover its depths and enjoy the journey of vengeance.
