The First Berserker Khazan uses strong soulslike mechanics to create a fun though not very original adventure.
You play as General Khazan who is sentenced to death by the emperor for crimes he didn't commit. After an accident during his transport a mysterious force takes control of him offering a chance to seek revenge. The story unfolds with political intrigue revealing the events that led to his downfall. While the plot is predictable at times the voice cast helps make it more engaging.
The First Berserker has a clean anime art style. but it’s still a dark and grim game. The cell-shading makes everything look neat but the places you explore are ruined towns broken temples and dark caves. Outside there’s often a blizzard or endless brown landscapes. Some people may like the dark atmosphere but even games like Sekiro Shadows Die Twice have moments of beauty before showing the darkness beneath.
The First Berserker’s combat is inspired by Sekiro. Enemies have a poise meter that when drained by breaking their guard or deflecting their attacks makes them vulnerable to burst attacks. Later you will face humanoid enemies who can regain poise by backing off or monsters that get a knockback immunity when they rage. This keeps the combat interesting but the rage mechanic isn’t used enough.
Your enemies can also use burst attacks shown by an icon on the screen signaling when you can counter. Like Sekiro timing and remembering moves are key. However unlike Sekiro Khazan's enemies are often just basic zombies, beasts and warriors though they still provide a tough challenge.
Khazan has three weapon types: dual blades greatsword and spear. You'll choose one to specialize in early which will guide your attribute upgrades and skill choices as you level up.
The combat in The First Berserker is inspired by Sekiro but its mission structure and gear system are similar to Nioh by Team Ninja. Enemies and chests drop random loot with better stats and buffs. The game improves on Nioh by adding named sets of armor weapons and accessories that give extra bonuses when equipped. This system encourages players to carefully build their character instead of just using the best gear available.
The First Berserker has main missions that last about an hour and some quick side quests that give you new items and upgrades. However the side quests are underwhelming often reusing areas you have already seen and ending with a fight against a stronger version of a boss or just regular enemies with more health.
After each mission you will return to a hub where you can organize your inventory craft gear at the blacksmith buy items from a store and reroll buffs at a transmutation cube. It's nothing new but these features work well with the game's gear system.
The First Berserker has strong mechanics but its simple and repetitive levels are a downside. There are hidden soulstones to destroy and pottery to break to rescue jar people but the levels aren't as challenging or fun as the final fight. You might have some trouble with elite enemies early on (special versions of regular foes that stay gone once defeated) but the levels are generally too easy.
The bosses in The First Berserker Khazan stand out with their strong weapons and tricky strategies. Some use power and speed to defeat you while others focus on status effects to keep you busy. At times they may seem unbeatable but the game’s systems and gear give you the tools to beat them.
I really enjoyed the big battles. but I wish The First Berserker Khazan took more chances with new ideas. It has great combat and enough depth to let you play in different ways and the boss fights are tough. But taking a few more risks instead of sticking to the basics would have made it a must-play soulslike.
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