The first reviews for Wuchang: Fallen Feathers have arrived on Metacritic, showing that Chinese developer Leenzee Games' new souls-like game hasn't gone unnoticed by critics. Highlighted by its fast-paced combat and innovative skill system, the game has also faced criticism for its confusing narrative, lackluster bosses, and recurring technical issues.
With a premise that blends Chinese mythology and a dark setting during the Ming Dynasty, the title attempts to offer something beyond the established FromSoftware formula. However, the execution leaves significant gaps that compromise the overall experience.
Fast-paced combat and skill system stand out in the gameplay
Among the most praised features by websites like IGN is the fast-paced combat. Wuchang, the game's protagonist, boasts agile movements, efficient dodges, and the ability to switch between weapon styles with just a button. The variety of six weapon types completely transforms the fighting style, allowing for approaches based on damage, range, or speed.
Furthermore, the progression system departs from the traditional attribute point model. Instead, the game offers a robust skill tree, with active and passive improvements that evolve as the player progresses. The feeling of constant progression keeps the challenge balanced and rewards those who explore different tactical approaches.
Another unique feature is the Corruption system. Defeating humans causes Wuchang to accumulate a type of negative energy that, in excess, spawns a powerful enemy at the point where the experience was lost. This mechanic adds a strategic layer to the journey, in addition to innovating within an already established format.
Vague narrative and frustrating exploration hurt immersion
Despite competent gameplay, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers stumbles badly when it comes to narrative. The story of pirate Wuchang, cursed with a disease called Feathering, presents a promising plot but fails to engage the player. The dialogue is extremely enigmatic, and the NPCs fail to contribute to building a coherent world.
The narrative progression suffers from a lack of clear context and lackluster revelations. Answers emerge shallowly, undermining interest in delving deeper into the mysteries of Shu Island. The setting, though inspired by rich Eastern folklore, fails to sustain the dramatic weight required by the plot.
Exploration is also criticized. Even with interconnected scenarios, the confusing level design and lack of a functional map make navigation difficult. There's a compass that points to objectives, but it proves ineffective in vertical and complex environments. The result is an experience that often frustrates rather than entices.
Visually polished in art, but compromised in technical execution
The art direction of Wuchang: Fallen Feathers succeeds in representing cultural elements of ancient China. The costumes, mythological creatures, and settings reveal careful aesthetics, but the technical aspects compromise this beauty. Several graphic elements feature low-resolution textures, rendering glitches, and dated animations.
This gap between concept and technical execution is one of the points that most sets the game apart from other titles in the genre. In a competitive market where visual immersion matters as much as gameplay, these visual issues end up negatively impacting the final score.
A soulslike that tries to innovate, but still needs to mature
While it doesn't reach the level of excellence of classics like Bloodborne or Elden Ring, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers demonstrates a genuine effort to step out of the shadows of the genre's greats. Its dynamic combat, combined with a creative skill system, delivers quality moments that will delight those seeking a new souls-like experience.
However, stumbling blocks in the narrative, boss construction, and exploration structure prevent the game from reaching its full potential. Still, it can surprise players willing to overlook its flaws and delve into a different, albeit imperfect, approach.
For those who follow the genre and seek new ideas, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers represents a bold step, but it still needs adjustments to find its place among the greats.
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