Review: Lords of the Fallen - Darker and Better Than Ever Before

When the original Lords of the Fallen was released in 2014, it appeared as one of the first Dark Souls clones that tried to bring something of its own. Although the game from Deck13 Interactive studio ultimately didn't achieve the same success as other soulslike titles, it gained its own fan base. Now, almost ten years later, the brand returns in the form of a complete reboot. Hexworks studio (a subsidiary of CI Games) made a bold decision - to create a game that preserves the spirit of the original while introducing modern mechanics and visual design.

After more than 50 hours spent in the dark world of the current Lords of the Fallen, I can say that the result is worth your attention. Let's take a look at what this soulslike series reboot has to offer.

Story and World

Lords of the Fallen takes place in a world that is literally plywooded through by the fate of the gods Adyr and Incarose. As the cursed warrior Harkyn, you search for the savior of the Adyr gods who were killed by the creator of dark cells Incarose. The story is more engaging than in the original but still suffers from typical soulslike game issues - it's delivered in fragments and often difficult to follow what's actually happening unless you actively explore item texts and dialogues.

What's worth mentioning, however, is the dual nature of the world that the game presents. Umbral, the dark alternative dimension, gives the game a unique identity. You can transition between both worlds and solve interesting puzzles or discover hidden paths, which is a great way to bring something fresh to the genre.

Side characters like Eydis (your guide and provider of ritual powers) or the twins Kaslo and Kaslana are interestingly crafted and contribute to a deeper understanding of the lore. It's just a shame that the main plot is presented too cryptically, which may discourage many players from delving deeper into the story.

Combat System and Weapons

The game offers three main weapon schools, each with its own unique style:

• Heavy weapons (swords, maces) - slower strikes, high shield penetration
• Light weapons (rapiers, shortswords) - quick counterattacks and combos
• Magic and temple weapons - ranged attacks with various elemental effects

Each weapon also has its unique parry window and specific animations. The parry system is addictive, even though initially challenging to time correctly. The dash mechanic serves to avoid strikes and reset position, which adds dynamics to every combat.

The truly revolutionary element, however, is the rune enhancement system. Runes can be inserted into weapons and armor, providing static bonuses or adding effect attacks. This allows you to customize your equipment exactly to your playstyle, which significantly increases replayability.

RPG Elements and Progression

Unlike some soulslike games, Lords of the Fallen fully embraces RPG elements. No preset classes restrict you - your build is created purely by combining equipment, runes, and tattoos.

Yes, tattoos are another unique element of the game. Body runes not only change your appearance but also add special passive abilities such as life stealing or increased resilience. This system adds another layer of personalization to the game.

The progression system is built on five basic attributes:

• Strength (for heavy weapons)
• Agility (for light weapons)
• Willpower (for spells)
• Endurance (stamina and carrying capacity)
• Faith (for temple weapons)

Additionally, there's a skill tree with three branches: "Harbinger," "Stalker," and "Invoker." Each branch contains both passive bonuses and active special abilities. The system is deep enough to offer diverse playstyles but not too complex to discourage newcomers.

The crafting system is well-implemented compared to other games - items can be broken down, and from their parts, you can create new equipment. For example, a shield from several armor pieces or a crossbow from energy crystals.

Level Design and Environment

The world of Lords of the Fallen is structured as connected module areas with metroidvania elements - you often return to previously visited places with new abilities that open previously inaccessible paths. This approach works well most of the time, although occasionally you'll encounter frustrating moments when it's not entirely clear where to go next.

What I must highlight is the implementation of dynamic weather and day-night cycle that changes enemy behavior and lighting effects. It's a great detail that contributes to the atmosphere and dynamism of the world.

Dungeons are designed with a sense for gradual difficulty progression, and each boss has its own unique arena that often plays a role in the battle. The bosses themselves are imaginative - each has specific mechanics and phases. Some boss fights are among the best I've experienced in the genre, even though they can be too challenging at times.

Visual Aspects and Sound

Technically, Lords of the Fallen showcases what Unreal Engine 4/5 can do. The game uses photogrammetry to create realistic details of armor, skin, stone, and resin. The result is breathtaking visual scenes - from dramatic light rays penetrating window openings to eerie dark corners of Umbral.

HDR lighting gives the game a cinematic feel, and sound design with spatial Dolby Atmos contributes to an immersive experience. Every strike, every weapon impact, or step on stone sounds authentic and adds satisfaction to combat.

Performance-wise, the game has significantly improved since release thanks to several updates, but there are still situations where the framerate drops even on powerful setups. Fortunately, the game offers a wide range of graphic settings including support for ray tracing, DLSS, and FidelityFX Super Resolution.

Multiplayer and DLC

The multiplayer aspect of the game includes cooperation of up to two players online and the possibility of PvP invasions in designated sanctuaries. The system works well but suffers from occasional connection and matchmaking issues that can be frustrating.

Regarding future content, Hexworks has an ambitious roadmap. The first major DLC "Halls of Despair" will bring three new dungeons, two bosses, and new tattoo runes in winter 2024. A photo editor is planned for spring 2025, and full mod support in summer 2025, which should significantly extend the game's lifespan.

Verdict

For souls-like fans, Lords of the Fallen is a must. Among "soulslike" titles, it offers one of the deepest RPG layers, a diverse build system, and more dynamic combat thanks to photogrammetry and Unreal Engine. For newcomers to the genre, it may be a challenging start, but if they persevere, an immensely satisfying gaming experience awaits them.