At the recent Steam Next Fest 2024, one demo stood out from the rest and lingered in my mind long after I set down my controller. "Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn" captured my imagination and, after investing a solid 40 hours into its universe, I can confidently say it’s a game that will keep me thinking about its rich world and mechanics for months to come.
In "Flintlock," players step into the boots of Nor, a fierce soldier wielding both pistols and a hefty axe. She is joined by the charming Enki, a fox-like companion who unleashes magical attacks in battle. Together, they traverse the enchanting world of Kian, a "flintstone fantasy" realm where the might of gods clashes with humanity’s ingenuity harnessed in gunpowder. For a decade, humanity has fought against the undead, and now, with the gods breaking free from the Great Below, their wrath threatens to annihilate all. The duo navigates a landscape filled with peril, facing off against undead foes and divine bosses in a unique rhythm combat system, blending action-adventure, Soulslike gameplay, and 3D platforming—all brought to life by the talented team at A44 Games.
One standout feature of "Flintlock" is its exhilarating movement mechanics. The game introduces "Dust Jumping," a double jump system that not only helps dodge incoming attacks but also facilitates exploration by allowing players to reach hidden areas. The Rift Travel mechanic lets players traverse vast distances, soaring through the skies of Kian against breathtaking backdrops. Whether you’re racing over shimmering landscapes or climbing to the rooftops of the City of Writing, the verticality of this world encourages adventurous spirits to push the limits of exploration.
Combat initially feels methodical, but as you unlock new abilities and weapons, it quickly gains momentum. The variety of armor sets adds a layer of strategy; some can enhance dodging capabilities, while others experiment with curses that ignite explosive opportunities against foes. Weaponry is equally diverse, offering effects that can burn enemies or magnify your critical hit capabilities when properly timed.
What truly sets "Flintlock" apart is the thoughtful integration of mechanics that encourage planning and adaptation. Players must monitor their Reputation—a currency earned from defeating adversaries—which can be lost upon death. "A44" introduced a clever twist: the more successful hits you land, the more Reputation you can earn, but at the risk of losing it all if you suffer damage before cashing in. This careful balance between risk and reward heightens the adrenaline rush during gameplay, encouraging players to engage in strategic combat.
The richness of "Flintlock" doesn’t stop at combat mechanics; with ultimate attacks, a plethora of side quests, an addictive minigame, and nearly a hundred collectibles lurking within the world, this title promises to entertain for 20-30+ hours.
However, my journey through Kian wasn’t without its bumps. Despite the excitement, I ran into some performance hiccups, with dropped frames and screen tearing occasionally interrupting the experience. While these issues were often resolved with a quick restart, the game did feel more sluggish as I continued my adventure—something I hope the developers address in future patches. Additionally, the absence of features like a "Hide Helmet" toggle or a grenade indicator can lead to frustrating moments, especially when an unexpected explosion costs you hard-earned Reputation.
For those seeking a challenge, "Flintlock" offers varying difficulty levels, with the Possessed mode pushing players to hone their skills in true Soulslike fashion. However, those who favor a more moderate experience might find the difficulty spikes jarring.
Yet, no performance issue could tear me away from the mesmerizing world of Kian. Inspired by the rich tapestry of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and New Zealand, the environment is breathtaking and captivating. I found myself snapping screenshots of Nor and Enki as they embarked on their adventures—carefully navigating the vibrant locales, from towns to majestic jade crystal mountains, and even scaling a massive gunpowder factory lined with barrels of explosives.
The attention to detail—from Nor’s whimsical idle animations to the budding friendship between her and Enki—enriches the experience, drawing players deeper into the narrative. The tantalizing lore surrounding Kian, including the enigmatic "Guests" and the formidable ostrich-like creatures roaming the lands, leaves one yearning for more depth and exploration within this fantastical realm.
So, is "Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn" worth its $40 price tag? While it certainly has its flaws, the game’s vibrant blend of action-adventure and Soulslike elements, coupled with a sprinkle of 3D platforming, makes it a must-try for enthusiasts. If you can overlook its performance quirks, you’ll be treated to a thrilling adventure. For those with a Game Pass subscription, it’s a no-brainer to dive into this engaging title.
Pros:
- Fun movement and customizable combat systems
- Great for explorers and collectors
- Stunning cutscenes and environmental design
Cons:
- Performance issues
- Notable absence of minor yet impactful features
A copy of the game was provided by the publisher for review. Reviewed on PC.
