In the realm of gaming, few experiences are as transformative as the moment a title demands players to adapt to its unique mechanics. For many, this moment arrives during a challenging boss encounter, such as Lady Butterfly in Sekiro, where the game firmly establishes its rules. This same sense of engagement permeates The First Berserker: Khazan, a cell-shaded soulslike that invites players to immerse themselves in its intricate combat systems.
Out for revenge
Set within the vibrant universe of Dungeon Fighter Online, The First Berserker: Khazan casts players in the role of Khazan, a once-celebrated general who has fallen from grace. After vanquishing the formidable “Berserk Dragon,” Khazan finds himself exiled and mutilated by envious nobles. His journey for vengeance begins when he is liberated and possessed by the Blade Phantom, a netherworld spirit. This character, voiced by Anthony Howell—known for his work in Elden Ring—adds a layer of depth and humor as players navigate the challenges ahead.
Khazan’s structure mirrors the classic linear missions found in Demon’s Souls, where players traverse between checkpoints known as Blade Nexuses. However, it also draws inspiration from Black Myth: Wukong, offering a diverse arsenal of three weapons, each with its own skill tree. This blend of familiar mechanics and innovative features creates a refreshing experience. Combat revolves around a resource model where players accumulate Spirit points through attacks and deflections, which can then be spent on weapon skills. What sets Khazan apart is its strict stamina system, allowing players to execute combos akin to a fighting game while managing their resources strategically.
Deadly experiments
One of Khazan’s standout features is its rewarding system for engaging with bosses. Players earn Lacrima—souls used for leveling stats—and skill points simply by fighting bosses, not just defeating them. This approach encourages players to learn and adapt, making each encounter feel rewarding, even in defeat. The game introduces various combat mechanics, including timed deflections and unblockable attacks, which can be parried for significant stamina damage. This layer of complexity ensures that players must think critically about their strategies, as not every attack is parryable.
For those who prefer to avoid parrying, Khazan offers alternative skill paths focused on dodging and post-dodge attacks. The absence of respec costs for skills allows players to experiment freely, adjusting their builds right before boss encounters. This flexibility is essential, as the game requires thoughtful engagement rather than brute force to succeed. Players who embrace this challenge will find some of the most intricately designed bosses in the genre, rewarding strategic play.
Guts and grind
Despite its strengths, Khazan does have its shortcomings. The missions between bosses can feel repetitive, leading players to yearn for a more dynamic experience. While the game avoids some of the genre’s more frustrating elements, such as hidden traps and relentless enemies, the lack of exploration and diverse environments can make the journey feel monotonous. The combat remains engaging, but the linear structure may leave some players craving the richer experiences found in modern soulslikes.
Visually, Khazan showcases its anime-inspired art style with dramatic boss battles and cutscenes, though some areas may appear somewhat drab. The game runs smoothly, yet the environments often consist of mines, ruins, and caves, which can detract from the overall experience. Khazan, much like its protagonist, embodies a straightforward approach to storytelling, with a focus on revenge that may resonate with fans of the genre. However, the character’s flatness may leave some players wanting more depth.
For those on the fence about diving into this title, the initial introduction may not adequately showcase its best features. A demo, if available, could provide a clearer insight into the game’s mechanics and narrative, particularly during the encounter with the Blade Phantom. This pivotal moment serves as a gateway to understanding the essence of Khazan and whether it aligns with your gaming preferences.
