Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn, developed by A44 Games and published by Kepler Interactive, is bringing its mix of Souls-like mechanics and gun-based combat to current gen systems including the PlayStation 5. The game places players in the boots of Nor Vanek, a skilled member of the Coalition army, accompanied by Enki, a magical fox-like companion. Together, they embark on a quest against the Gods who have unleashed chaos upon the world of Kian – here are our thoughts on the full version, after we previously previewed the game.
The narrative sets an engaging tone, with a world that’s teetering on the brink of destruction. The relationship between Nor and Enki adds depth to the storyline and characters, making their journey compelling as they battle through hordes of undead and otherworldly threats together. However, the storytelling occasionally struggles with pacing, making some segments feel a bit too drawn out while other story elements deserved to be explored more.
The gameplay mechanics are a highlight in Flintlock, as its blend of melee, guns, and magic offers a refreshing take on the crowded action RPG genre. The combat is fluid and dynamic, with a focus on chaining combos and using verticality to gain the upper hand. The ability to weave between different combat styles keeps encounters exciting and challenging, and the styles feel like they complement each other well. However, the difficulty spikes can be daunting and can cause some frustration for less seasoned players.
The controls on the PS5 are generally responsive, allowing for precise execution of complex moves. The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback enhances the immersive experience, especially during intense battles – though we wouldn’t call Flintlock a standout example of how the DualSense features can be used to great effect.
Visually, Flintlock impresses with its detailed environments and character designs. The war-torn landscapes of Kian are beautifully rendered, and the game’s art style effectively conveys the dark, oppressive atmosphere – it’s a world that beckons to be explored. The animations, especially during combat sequences, are smooth and visually striking. But this visual prowess comes at a small cost, as occasional frame rate drops and minor graphical glitches detract from the overall experience and will have us taking a look at any upcoming patch notes.
The audio design in Flintlock is excellent, with a powerful soundtrack that complements the game’s intense action. The voice acting is commendable, adding emotional weight to the narrative, while the sound effects are spot on, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.
In conclusion, Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn offers a robust and engaging action RPG experience with its innovative mix of combat mechanics and captivating narrative. While it has its flaws, such as pacing issues and difficulty spikes, it stands out as a noteworthy addition to the genre. Fans of action RPGs and those seeking a fresh take on the Souls-like formula will find much to enjoy here.
Score: 7.2/10
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