Lies of P: Overture brings players back into the eerie, Belle Époque-infused streets of Krat, delivering a gripping prequel that expands on the dark lore of the original while honouring its roots. This DLC not only deepens the narrative, but also enriches the combat and world-building in ways both familiar and fresh, and justifies its price tag with a 10+ hour campaign.
Set just before the calamity known as the Puppet Frenzy, Overture shifts focus onto Lea, the legendary Stalker, and her tragic arc. Journeying alongside Geppetto’s puppet through locations like the chilling Krat Zoo and secret alchemist labs, players experience macabre moments and emotional beats that add depth to the original story. The plot of this prequel unfolds with a keen sense of tragic inevitability – dark and gut-wrenching without sacrificing that twisted fairytale feel.
Fans of the main game’s dark design will appreciate that Overture doesn’t just coast on existing lore – it delivers new set-pieces and territory. Standout locales like the Krat Zoo greenhouse and twisted carnival laboratories offer atmospheric artistry, although a few underground labs feel a bit more generic. Still, the environments remain striking, enhanced by grotesque and beautifully disturbing visuals that amplify the tension.
Combat remains the centerpiece, and Overture leans into its brutal Souls formula with gusto. The DLC introduces formidable boss encounters – some of the most memorable we’ve seen yet – including a riveting final showdown that balances difficulty and flair. Yet the challenge still isn’t for the faint of heart: regular enemies can overwhelm with crushing combos and pinned-down rushes, though the newly added Bow and Legion Arms offer fresh tactical options.
In a move that perhaps will surprise fans of the original game, a free patch introduced alongside Overture adds three difficulty presets: “Very Easy,” “Normal,” and the classic challenge. This opens doors for newcomers, though some difficulty bands still feel uneven. Regardless, accessibility options and colorblind modes broaden the appeal without diluting the core experience for those looking for more of a challenge.
The DLC also adds a wealth of new gear and quality-of-life updates. Expect ten weapons, Legion Arms with fresh utility, powerful ammo-based bows, and clever amulets like “Winter Sleep,” which adds a Freeze effect – which is both thematic apt and effective. Performance on PlayStation 5 is smooth and stable, making for a seamless and visually impressive run.
For Soulslike veterans and newcomers alike, Overture builds on what made Lies of P shine – challenging combat, great art design, and rich storytelling – and pushes it further. While the DLC doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it sure adds sharper spokes. It’s a darker, more dangerous chapter woven artistically into Krat’s lore, brimming with unforgettable battles and sorrow-soaked mysteries. Whether you’re revisiting your footsteps or entering anew, Overture earns its place as essential Soulsborne content and another good reason to dip into the Lies of P universe.
Score: 8.4/10
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