KIBORG: Arena brings a nostalgic feel that harkens back to old-school action games. The free prologue sets the stage for the upcoming cyberpunk game KIBORG, immersing players in a large arena where they must battle hordes of enemies. The concept of punching a gong between waves to progress adds a unique touch, emphasizing the importance of swift and strategic combat. This throwback style reminds me of classic games like Batman: Arkham Asylum and Middle Earth: Shadow Of Mordor with its rhythmic combat and timed parrying mechanics.
As a newcomer in the third-person action genre, Moscow-based Sobaka Studio has made a commendable effort with KIBORG: Arena. The game introduces players to a variety of melee combat techniques and a diverse selection of weapons, each with its own unique moves. The upgrade tree and scoring system enhance replayability, keeping players engaged in the arena battles. However, the lack of fluidity in combat compared to titles like Arkham games may deter some players from fully embracing the experience.
The chunky and meaty violence in KIBORG: Arena adds a satisfying element to the gameplay. Players can utilize a dash augment for heavy and light attacks, allowing for swift movements across the arena to deliver powerful blows. The variety of weapons, including dual bats and a shovel, offer different playstyles for players to experiment with. However, the presence of ranged enemies disrupts the flow of combat, requiring players to adapt quickly and juggle between melee and ranged attacks.
While KIBORG: Arena provides an immersive combat experience, certain challenges, such as frozen tutorials and occasional bugs, may hinder the overall gameplay. Players are encouraged to dive straight into the action and learn through trial and error. The gritty, unapologetic vibe of the game hearkens back to the action-packed games of the 2000s, offering a mix of nostalgia and modern gaming elements. The brutal weaponry and intense battles create a sense of urgency and excitement, keeping players on their toes throughout each wave of enemies.
KIBORG: Arena is a promising prologue to the upcoming cyberpunk game KIBORG. While it may not reach the heights of classic action games from the past, it succeeds in delivering a visceral and engaging combat experience. The retro vibes and challenging gameplay make it a must-try for fans of the genre. With room for improvement in terms of combat flow and enemy AI, KIBORG: Arena sets the stage for a potentially thrilling cyberpunk adventure in the full game. Dive into the arena, hone your combat skills, and prepare to face off against the cybernetic foes that await in KIBORG.
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