It's that time again for a new episode of Chichuki Plays, the show where I go hands-on with upcoming games and show them off. Usually it's about an hour or so but I don't want to spoil too much of the game for you. This time, we're looking at Blades of Fire on the Epic Game Store. Fans of games like Dark Souls and God of War will be right at home with Blades of Fire. The game is pretty graphic so here is your warning now!
Let me start out by saying that some of the load times in Blades of Fire are long. Now, that could be on my end and my computer but I'm not going to hold that against the game. Blades of Fire tells the tale of Aran de Lira on his journey to find the real purpose of his fate! You start out by learning the basics and then get thrown into action. You hear a slight commotion and the Abbott, who you knew very well, doesn't make it out of our tutorial lesson. We end up traveling with Adso, the boy who was with the Abbott at the time of his death. Adso will be able to help in combat and our journey by giving advice, tips, and other helpful information. The Abbott wanted to give Aran one of the mighty relics, the last of the seven hammers.Think of that like the Firekeeper's Souls from Dark Souls. We'll need that to gain access to fast travel, weapon crafting and more.
During the journey, you'll be able to find things strewn about and you'll be able to use those items for crafting and weapon forging. The weapon forging is one of the more complicated weapon making systems I've seen in a game and I still have no idea how to make a good weapon. I felt that the forging was similar to how Dragon Quest XI had you find items to use and then use pressure to give them better stats. I made a sword, two staff-like weapons, and a spear. I have to say that combat with all weapons felt very smooth and natural. Having enemies be color coded by what weapon is strong against them was a nice touch. When you perish in battle, you lose the weapon you were using at the time of death so remember where you died. If you think you'll have trouble in a fight, go back to the alter/anvil area to rest and that's your reset point. There was a tough fight where I died a few times but I was right next to the rest area so I didn't mind trying it a few times.
Combat feels smooth but it does take a little getting used to. You have the basic attacks but you can combo them together from the start of the game. Find out what attacks can stun and break the stance of the enemy. I mentioned the tough fight I had earlier but after I mastered the dodge roll, quick dodge, and felt comfortable using my strong attacks, the fight was much easier to handle. Study locations and use map tags so you can find your way back. You have access to a compass on the top of the screen where you will be led to landmarks like fast travel spots and important spots. To sum up, Blades of Fire will be a game that you want to keep an eye out for this year. There is plenty of play styles so you can fight the way you want to.
Make sure you check out the hands-on video below!