Dark and Darker

Dark and Darker

Bumpo1303 Dec 19, 2022 @ 2:18pm
Honest Review: Read Full Review
Overall Rating as of Alpha/Play Test release 2/5

Graphics 3/5 - For this stage the Graphics are as you would expect. They are actually aesthetically right and I can safely assume that the release game will have them in tip top shape. My only concern is how dark the atmosphere really is. There doesn't need to be this much pitch blackness if there is nothing you can do with it. And the torch can't be held while you have a weapon out, currently. As model rendering is concerned. There is obvious clipping issues and some unit frame issues. But that isn't detrimental to the overall game and concept. Spells were the real big saving grace. Though they aren't overtly telling of what they are going to be or do. The spell graphics were above average for even some finished games.

Store/Lore Concepts/Background 1/5 - It's a Battle Royale at its core really. So there obviously isn't going to be any main objectives or quests or RPG elements. This isn't a concern to me. Basically, you're an adventurer sitting in a tavern looking for people to group up with to go and loot dungeons. But it's not a dungeon crawler. It's a Battle Royale. Cool Concept needs tweaking.

Sound/Audio 3/5 - The ambient sounds really help set the mood and are quite pleasing. The weapon hits and swings are also on point. In typical BR fashion you can hear footsteps of opponents and allies and enemies. The only thing I didn't like here is at times it seemed tooooo quite. But I might be biased here. It fits aesthetically just for me I would've like a little more background music.

Gameplay 2/5 - The bones of a great game are here, maybe even a successful game. But currently in play testing the game prevents you from going anywhere. Solo players are subject to not only environmental hazards but also Dark Soul level NPC mobs, AND players lurking to kill them. Best way to play this game is in a group and even then its best to avoid NPC mobs and rush to a Red Pillar or a Blue Pillar. Ranger is the best class hands down and only one worth playing. There needs to be massive balancing here. NPCs hit to hard, no healing options readily available, melee classes are subject to brutal games, no dodging capabilities or worthy stealth options. And to top it off if you don't escape you leave with only a little bit of exp and lose all the gear you brought in with you.

Fun/Replay value 4/5 - All in all taking in to consideration of the stage of development the game is in. The game was indeed fun (WITH A GROUP), I cannot recommend this solo because you just won't get the same experience at this stage. If they introduce a Solo Queue or a "Fill" option than that changes things. However, I spent 4 hours today playing and I actually had a blast. I am a Souls player and the challenge of this game had me rather enjoying myself. There are problems for sure. However, they can be overlooked, currently, and the game can be thoroughly enjoyed.

Summary - I am interestingly excited to see if this game takes off. From what I seen today I would not pay more than maybe $30 for this. In fact the Devs would be better off making this a Free to Play since they have an in-game shop for cosmetics already. I can also see a Battle/Season Pass to buy in to. With a slew of cosmetic, currency, and boost options. If there were other ways to gain gear or gold in the game without having to escape every time. This game can really be something. If you want to try something new and challenging I believe I can recommend this game. Just remember at this play-test phase. There are problems with it!!!! :D
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Bumpo1303 Dec 23, 2022 @ 5:19am 
If it is F2P then that opens the door for a Battle Pass or something along those lines. Every BR currently is F2P so why not make this one the same. Their in game store would need to be updated and upgraded to make it worth buying into. But I can see it being very lucrative. As far as BR's are concerned this game is unique and could stand out in the crowd. BUT needs A LOT of love still to get there.
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Date Posted: Dec 19, 2022 @ 2:18pm
Posts: 1