BLACK SOULS: A Grim Fairy Tale with a Side of Existential Dread

When fairy tales go dark, and your choices are the real monsters

Launch Day Larry

Welcome, brave adventurers, to the twisted world of “BLACK SOULS,” where fairy tales are less about happily ever after and more about moral quandaries and existential dread. This game takes the classic RPG formula, adds a dash of Souls-like difficulty, and wraps it all in a narrative as dark as a Grimm Brothers’ fever dream. So, grab your sword, your moral compass, and maybe a guide or two, because this is one journey that doesn’t come with a map.

Gameplay: A Dance of Death and Decisions

“BLACK SOULS” is not your typical RPG. It borrows heavily from the Souls series, offering a punishing yet rewarding experience that demands strategic thinking and resource management. The Active Time Battle (ATB) system is the heart of combat, where speed dictates turn order, and every decision could be your last. It’s a system that will have Dark Souls veterans feeling right at home, while newcomers might find themselves reaching for a stress ball.

The game world is open for exploration, with non-linear paths and secrets hidden around every corner. The Seeds of Fire checkpoints offer a familiar respite, allowing for rest and fast travel. Plus, the New Game Plus mode retains your levels and weapons, encouraging multiple playthroughs to explore different moral paths. However, the game isn’t without its hurdles. Technical issues abound, requiring an official patch to be fully playable, and the audio settings are as adjustable as a brick wall.

Graphics: A Sketchy Affair

Visually, “BLACK SOULS” is a mixed bag. The rough sketch aesthetic, crafted by artist Toro, perfectly complements the game’s nightmarish world, creating an atmosphere that’s as oppressive as it is intriguing. The character design is a standout, with some players describing it as “phenomenal.” However, the art style is polarizing, and the rough edges might not appeal to everyone.

Technical limitations of the older RPG-Maker engine also rear their ugly heads, with missing sprites and dialogue affecting immersion. Yet, despite these issues, the graphics succeed in reinforcing the game’s atmosphere of despair, making the world feel both unique and immersive.

Story: A Dark and Twisted Tale

The narrative of “BLACK SOULS” is where the game truly shines. It weaves together grim fairy tales with a Souls-like ambiguity, creating a storytelling experience that’s both unique and immersive. Players navigate a mist-consumed kingdom, facing moral dilemmas that significantly impact the narrative and lead to multiple endings. It’s a story that engages players on a meta level, offering a rich tapestry of hidden lore and environmental storytelling.

However, the narrative complexity might be overwhelming for some, and the dark themes, including controversial content, may not be suitable for all audiences. The game requires multiple playthroughs to fully understand the story, which can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on your patience and love for lore.

Final Verdict

“BLACK SOULS” is a game that dares to be different, offering a challenging RPG experience wrapped in a narrative as dark as it is compelling. While technical issues and a polarizing art style may deter some players, those who persevere will find a rich world filled with moral complexity and replayability. It’s a game that rewards curiosity and punishes complacency, making it a memorable journey for those willing to brave its depths.

Score: 7.0/10