Black Souls II: A Twisted Wonderland of Turn-Based Torment

When Alice in Wonderland meets Dark Souls, expect a rabbit hole of epic proportions

Launch Day Larry

Welcome, brave adventurers, to the dark and twisted world of Black Souls II (BSII), where Lewis Carroll’s whimsical tales take a detour through the shadowy corridors of a turn-based RPG. This game is not for the faint-hearted, but for those who dare to venture, it promises a journey as rewarding as it is punishing.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Strategy and Sanity

BSII takes the classic Souls-like experience and masterfully translates it into a turn-based RPG format, creating a gameplay experience that is both familiar and refreshingly unique. The combat system is a standout feature, offering a level of customization and strategic depth that would make even the most seasoned tactician break a sweat. With a plethora of armor, rings, and weapons at your disposal, the possibilities for build variety are nearly endless. Just remember, you’ll need more than just a good sword arm; strategic planning and puzzle-solving are your best friends here.

The game’s difficulty is not to be underestimated, especially in the DLC3 content, which demands a comprehensive understanding of its mechanics. While some might lament the absence of ally summoning, the ability to level up covenants with certain characters offers a strategic alternative. The Metroidvania design, with its key items unlocking previous areas, adds a layer of exploration that keeps players engaged and curious. However, the early accessibility of the ending might tempt some to conclude their journey prematurely, potentially missing out on significant content.

Replayability is a core strength of BSII, with each playthrough offering a different experience. The Chaos Dungeon, with its endless exploration and grinding opportunities, ensures that players always have something new to discover. The dynamic game world, where bosses from one playthrough may become new characters in another, adds a delightful twist to the narrative.

Graphics: A Grimy Wonderland

Visually, Black Souls II is a mixed bag, but one that leans heavily towards artistic triumph. Toro’s art style has evolved significantly from the first installment, maintaining a raw, grimy, and horrifying aesthetic that perfectly complements the game’s dark narrative. The amateurish sketch style, while not to everyone’s taste, adds a unique charm that enhances the game’s atmosphere.

However, the graphics are not without their issues. Some players have reported technical challenges, such as zoomed-in CGs and missing graphics, which can detract from the overall experience. Despite these hiccups, the game’s visual style is widely appreciated for its ability to enhance the emotional impact of the narrative. The anime-inspired art style, with its charming and humorous character designs, adds a layer of visual variety that keeps each playthrough fresh and engaging.

Story: A Dark Descent into Madness

The narrative of Black Souls II is a complex tapestry woven with elements from Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking-Glass.” It begins with a compelling and mysterious opening that sets the player on a seemingly impossible quest to save Alice. This opening is considered one of the best in gaming history, immediately engaging players with its intriguing questions and challenges.

The story is a soul-rending odyssey, combining mythical adventure with deep emotional and philosophical themes. It explores themes of hope, perseverance, and the tension between innocence and madness, all wrapped in a dark fairy tale narrative. The meta-narrative, influenced by HP Lovecraft, adds layers of regret, guilt, and existential dread, creating a profound and transformative experience.

However, the narrative’s complexity can be overwhelming for some players, especially those unfamiliar with the original Alice books or Lewis Carroll’s life. The game requires patching to access the full content, which could disrupt the storytelling experience for players who are unaware. Despite these challenges, the story’s depth and emotional weight resonate deeply with players, making it a standout experience in the gaming world.

Final Verdict

Black Souls II is a masterpiece of dark storytelling and strategic gameplay, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for those willing to brave its challenges. While it has its flaws, particularly in terms of technical issues and narrative complexity, the game’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. For fans of dark RPG-maker games and twisted fairy tales, BSII is a must-play.

Score: 8.5/10