In Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles, players are invited to embark on a tranquil yet captivating journey through the vast, watery expanse of the Ursee as they grow a small settlement into a gorgeous looking empire. Developed by Tomas Sala, known for his work on The Falconeer, this open-world city builder offers a refreshing take on the genre, focusing on exploration and creativity rather than intricate resource management. We previously met with the developer and learned more about his vision, and couldn’t wait to see it in action now that the game has launched – here’s our take on the PS5 build.
Set in the aftermath of a devastating war, players are tasked with rebuilding settlements and fortresses amidst the rocky cliffs and treacherous waters of the Great Ursee – a place that at first sight doesn’t look very inviting for aspiring builders. The game’s premise, while simple, provides a compelling backdrop for players to unleash their creativity and carve out their own legacy in this fantastical world. However, while the setting is intriguing, there’s a relative lack of focus on storytelling and lore, and players should expect a firm emphasis on gameplay instead.
One of the standout features of Bulwark is its unique building mechanics, which draw inspiration from ‘3D modeling software and kitbashing’ – in reality, that means that it feels like the game intuitively and seamlessly meshes elements together, for a visually striking result. Constructing towers, pathways, and bridges feels intuitive and satisfying, allowing players to watch as their settlements quickly evolve from humble outposts to towering fortresses. The minimalist, low-poly visuals add to the game’s charm, with procedurally generated designs ensuring that even the most chaotic city layouts remain aesthetically pleasing. However, occasional clipping issues and merging buildings can briefly detract from the overall immersion, and those who generally enjoy micromanagement and navigating lots of menus will miss those elements here.
The game’s soundtrack, composed by Benedict Nichols, complements the serene atmosphere of the Ursee, enhancing the sense of tranquility as players explore and build. From peaceful tunes to the atmospheric sounds of rain and storms, the audio landscape of Bulwark adds another layer of immersion to the experience, making it a game that’s easy to get lost in.
Despite its strengths, Bulwark is not without its flaws. The control scheme takes some getting used to, making it initially challenging to navigate the intricate terrain of the Ursee. Additionally, as mentioned above, while the game encourages experimentation and creativity, the lack of depth in combat and economic systems may leave more experienced city builder enthusiasts wanting more.
Overall, Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles offers a relaxed and approachable take on the city builder genre, perfect for players of all skill levels looking for a more laid back experience. With its emphasis on exploration, creativity, and tranquil gameplay, it provides a welcome escape to a world of endless possibilities. While it may not offer the same level of depth as some of its counterparts, its unique mechanics and charming aesthetic make it a delightful experience for those seeking a different kind of city building experience on the PlayStation 5.
Score: 7.2/10
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