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Flintlock: The Siege Of Dawn describes itself as a soulslite, borrowing inspiration from FromSoftware's predecessors while being less punitive than a standard Dark Souls game. The title is by A44 Games, which previously released the well-received RPG Ashen in 2018. Hands-on time with the game during Summer Game Fest's Xbox Showcase provided a clearer understanding of what gamers may anticipate from the upcoming release, while there is clearly still more to learn.
While Flintlock incorporates features from past releases, it also distinguishes itself with a much more vibrant world, enjoyable firearm gameplay, and a mysterious companion. The game follows Nor, a soldier on a mission to combat the undead and evil gods that have taken over Kian. The title's smooth fighting systems, the potential of the fox-like god Enki - Nor's companion on her adventure - and a fantastical realm full of legend were all demonstrated well in the title's first half-hour.
Flintlock incorporates Dark Souls characteristics primarily through its fighting system, however instead of players gathering souls, each enemy grants them reputation. As hits land, a multiplier for the overall amount of reputation acquired at the end rises; however, if players are struck, this is reset to the baseline level. Dodging and parrying are critical for gaining maximum reputation, as is the usage of Nor's rifles, which are the only weapons capable of disrupting some otherwise unblockable strikes.
Combat isn't as harsh as a normal Soulslike, but it seems more rhythmic and fluid than most battles in the genre. Along with reputation, players will accumulate black powder for guns and grenades, as well as a withering meter, which when full, will allow Enki to unleash one of his special powers, such as freezing adversaries and dangling them in midair. Both of these movements, as well as the game's gunplay, feel incredibly enjoyable when interspersed with melee fighting, and keep things from becoming too repetitive.
My time with Flintlock revolved around traveling to the settlement of Sibyl, which had been terrorized by a miniboss known as The Scribe. The game's environment is nearly evocative of titles like Forspoken rather than the dismal realms of FromSoftware games, merging parts of a more ancient society with brighter hues that convey an image of a once-thriving planet destroyed by the wrath of wayward gods. Enki's interactions with the world are endearing, such as stepping into water on his own, which allows the anthropomorphic god to retain some of his animal-like features.
The soulslite parts of the game continue in campsites, which resemble bonfires in FromSoftware games. It is here that players can spend reputation to advance in three separate skill trees - magic, powder, and steel - as well as heal, though the latter can also be done with potions that can be refreshed at cafés dispersed across the realm. My limited time with the game didn't allow for much exploration of the open area, but it was evident that there are plenty of side quests to complete and exciting new gear to discover.
Flintlock has hybridized its gameplay in a number of interesting ways, including the incorporation of weapons into a fantasy world, which feels organic alongside Nor and Enki's magical powers. It's a shame the hands-on time with the game wasn't longer, because the setting itself is wonderfully immersive. The few discussions Nor had, both with Enki and with people like the multi-armed café owner, were interesting and left me wanting to learn more about Flintlock's larger plot.
Both Nor and Enki's overall abilities certainly have opportunity to expand through the game's ability trees, and it will be intriguing to see how players may tailor their fighting style as they go. Even with only partially enhanced prowess, the game's fighting was highly fluid and enjoyable, frequently feeling like a dance, with plenty of space for improvement. Flintlock: The Siege Of Dawn is set to release in July, so players won't have to wait long to experience Kian for themselves.
Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn is an upcoming Action Rpg with a wide range of talents, combat encounters, and a unique open world to discover. The game's distinct blend of fantasy and weaponry, combined with a fascinating tale and engaging characters, make it a promising addition to the Action RPG genre. Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn will be available on Xbox Game Pass on June 1, 2023, allowing gamers to immerse themselves in its universe and enjoy its distinct blend of action and exploration.
Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn, with its immersive setting, unique battle system, and engaging plot, is guaranteed to win the hearts of action RPG lovers. The game will be available on Xbox Game Pass on day one, making it easily accessible to users. Whether you enjoy Soulslike games or are searching for an exciting new adventure, Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn is a game worth checking out.