Info about The First Berserker: Khazan:

Official game description:
\[Pre-Order Bonus\]
===================
The following bonuses are available for those who pre-order \[The First Berserker: Khazan\]:
1\. Fallen Star Armor Set
・ Fallen Star's Resolve
・ Fallen Star's Mark
・ Fallen Star's Scar
・ Fallen Star's Tattered Clothing
・ Fallen Star's Shackles
\* The Fallen Star Armor Set is an exclusive pre-order reward and will not be obtainable through alternative means at a later date.
\* This armor set depicts Khazan's appearance during his exile to the snowy mountains after being falsely accused of treason. The Fallen Star Armor Set can be used cosmetically. This set can also be upgraded and/or have its options adjusted, allowing for continued usage.
\* Clear Mission 2 and open the reward barrel in the Crevice to obtain the Fallen Star Armor Set.
\* Updating to the latest version of the game may be required to access this content.
\[DELUXE EDITION Bonus\]
========================
The First Berserker: Khazan DELUXE EDITION includes the following content:
1\. The First Berserker: Khazan (main game)
2\. 72-Hour Early Access
3\. Hero's Weapon Set
・ Hero's Dual Wield
・ Hero's Spear
・ Hero's Greatsword
4\. Hero's Armor Set
・ Hero's Helm
・ Hero's Wristguards
・ Hero's Pauldrons
・ Hero's Leggings
・ Hero's Combat Boots
5\. Digital Artbook
・ The digital artbook features concept art from The First Berserker: Khazan. It can be accessed from the in-game main menu screen.
\* The Hero's Weapon and Armor Sets are The First Berserker: Khazan DELUXE EDITION exclusive items and cannot be obtained through alternative means at a later date.
\* The Hero's Weapon and Armor Sets can be used cosmetically. These sets can also be upgraded and/or have their options adjusted, allowing for continued usage.
\* Clear Mission 2 and open the reward barrel in the Crevice to obtain the Hero's Weapon and Armor Sets.
\* Updating to the latest version of the game may be required to access this content.
About the Game
==============
\[About This Game\]
Experience the brutal action of The First Berserker: Khazan, a hardcore Action RPG adventure set 800 years before the events of the Dungeon Fighter Online (DNF) Universe. You will experience the vast universe and journey to the continent of Arad and discover the untold story of General Khazan. Master deep and immersive combat mechanics while you engage in strategic battles against a diverse array of foes and bosses. Will you embrace the path of the First Berserker and embark on Khazan's path of revenge?
THE FIRST BERSERKER
The Great General Khazan is falsely branded a traitor and mercilessly tortured. After narrowly escaping death, Khazan forms an unlikely alliance with the ghostly entity Blade Phantom, gaining otherworldly powers. Witness Khazan’s journey for revenge and learn his path to becoming the first berserker in the DNF Universe.
BATTLE-HARDENED GENERAL
Khazan is a master of combat, wielding an arsenal of dual-wield weapons, spears, and great-swords with unmatched prowess. Collect, upgrade, and combine these weapons with various armor sets to create your own unique combat style. Develop Khazan's abilities through multiple in-depth skill trees, allowing players to customize their playstyle and specialize in different combat techniques. While challenging for hardcore gamers, the two difficulty settings and variety of combat and skill mechanics make the game approachable for players of all skill levels.
LEGENDARY BOSSES
Khazan engages in unforgettable boss battles, where each foe presents distinct attack patterns, exploitable weaknesses, and unique abilities. These battles require strategic thinking, precise timing, and a deep understanding of the combat system, encouraging players to adapt and learn quickly. By mastering Khazan's versatile weapons and skills, players can effectively customize their tactics to conquer various boss types and navigate diverse combat scenarios.
ANIME MEETS AAA
The First Berserker: Khazan’s striking 3D cel-shaded graphics bring the world of Arad to life with the vibrant look of animated films. The essence of the Dungeon and Fighter Universe is captured and reimagined with a unique blend of bold, cel-shaded art and realistic textures, creating an immersive visual experience.

Release date: 27 Mar, 2025

Categories: Action RPG, Soulslike Combat, Character Progression, Strategic Combat, Boss Rush, Single-player Story, Linear Progression, Exploration


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics: No data
- Time-to-fun: No data
- Player Archetypes: No data


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Fluid, engaging, and deep combat (weight 0.97): The game features engaging, fluid combat with responsive controls, often compared to titles like Sekiro, Nioh, and Devil May Cry.  Players can utilize parrying, dodging, and combos, with each weapon offering unique skill trees and playstyles. The combat system rewards skillful play and strategic decision-making.
- Challenging, rewarding boss encounters (weight 0.88): Boss battles are a highlight, offering challenging and fair encounters that require learning attack patterns and utilizing various combat mechanics. The game provides convenient features such as checkpoints before boss fights, the ability to earn experience even upon death, and the option to replay boss battles, reducing frustration and encouraging persistence.
- Impressive graphics and art style (weight 0.69): The game boasts impressive graphics, a unique art style (often cel-shaded or anime-inspired), and a captivating soundtrack.  These elements contribute to an immersive and visually appealing experience, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the game.
- Compelling story and world-building (weight 0.52): The game features a compelling story filled with betrayal, revenge, and redemption, enhanced by engaging world-building and lore.  The narrative is well-told through cutscenes, NPC conversations, and item descriptions, drawing players into the protagonist's journey.
- Accessible difficulty and design (weight 0.42): The game offers adjustable difficulty levels, including an easy mode for beginners, and incorporates quality-of-life improvements such as shorter runbacks and generous checkpoints.  The level design encourages exploration and rewards players with secrets and collectibles.
- Deep character progression system (weight 0.22): The game offers a robust character progression system with skill trees, weapon enhancements, and build customization, allowing players to tailor their playstyle.  This system provides a sense of growth and accomplishment as players unlock new abilities and strengthen their characters.
- Generally fun and enjoyable experience (weight 0.15): Many reviewers express general enjoyment and satisfaction with the game, describing it as addictive, fun, and worth the money.  These points lack specific details but indicate a positive overall reception.
- Well-optimized and polished performance (weight 0.09): The game is well-optimized and polished, running smoothly on a variety of PC configurations with minimal bugs or performance issues. This technical stability contributes to a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience.
- Satisfying hit feedback and sound (weight 0.04): The game features satisfying hit feedback and impactful sound design, enhancing the visceral feel of combat.  These elements contribute to a more immersive and engaging experience.

Common complaints:
- Repetitive, unbalanced, technically flawed (weight 0.34): The game suffers from a multitude of issues including uninspired level design, repetitive enemy and boss encounters, and poor balance. Many reviewers felt the bosses had excessive health and relied too heavily on memorization, while normal enemies posed little threat. Some also experienced technical issues like stuttering and crashes.
- Poorly implemented stamina system (weight 0.1): The stamina system is poorly implemented, with stamina depleting too quickly both in and out of combat. This severely restricts player actions, forcing them to retreat and wait for stamina to regenerate, disrupting the flow of combat and exploration.
- Game is overpriced (weight 0.07): Many reviewers felt the game was overpriced for the content it offered. This sentiment was especially strong in regions with lower average incomes.
- Limited and unbalanced weapon variety (weight 0.05): The game features a limited selection of only three weapon types, and weapon scaling feels inconsistent and unbalanced. Some reviewers found that weapons acquired early in the game outperformed those found later on.
- Uninspired and confusing map design (weight 0.03): The game's map design is uninspired, linear, and difficult to navigate due to similar-looking areas and a lack of a map. Many reviewers found themselves getting lost and frustrated while exploring.
- Greatsword weapon is underpowered (weight 0.03): The greatsword weapon type is significantly weaker than other options like spears and dual blades. Reviewers found its damage output lacking and its attacks too slow, making it an ineffective choice.
- Misleading difficulty settings (weight 0.02): The game's difficulty settings are misleading, with 'easy' mode still presenting a significant challenge. Switching to easy mode may also prevent players from reverting to normal mode or completing all achievements.
- Unoriginal, copies other games (weight 0.02): The game is criticized for heavily borrowing elements from other Soulslike games, particularly Nioh and Sekiro, without bringing anything new to the genre. Some reviewers expressed frustration with the trend of games trying to emulate the Souls series.
- Poorly designed spirit system (weight 0.02): The spirit system is poorly designed, with weak summons and tedious farming requirements. Some reviewers found many of the active skill abilities to be useless.
- Poor control customization options (weight 0.02): The game suffers from limited and awkward control customization options, especially for controllers. Some reviewers experienced issues with controller inputs and excessive vibration.
- Disappointing item system (weight 0.02): The game's item system and drop rates are disappointing, with reviewers finding it difficult to obtain full armor sets and experiencing inconsistent loot power. Some felt the item farming was tedious and unrewarding.

Gameplay feedback:
- Soulslike with unique skill trees (weight 0.18): The game incorporates Soulslike elements, such as a leveling system, bonfire checkpoints, and challenging combat. However, it also includes unique features like skill trees for each of the three weapon types (Greatsword, Dual Wielding, and Spear), which allow for build customization and varied playstyles. The game also allows free skill respecs.
- Mission-based, linear level design (weight 0.15): The game adopts a mission-based structure with linear level design, similar to Nioh, rather than an open-world format. Players progress through distinct missions accessed from a central hub area. Levels are designed with some exploration in mind, featuring branching paths and secrets.
- Adjustable difficulty, strategic combat (weight 0.06): The game offers adjustable difficulty levels, with Normal providing a solid challenge. Enemy placement is deliberate, and boss fights are a core component. The combat system is responsive and satisfying, but mastering skill combos is essential for overcoming tougher encounters.
- Multiple defensive mechanics (weight 0.02): The game features multiple defensive mechanics including parry, deflect, perfect block, dodge, and perfect dodge. Ideal blocks and dodges help manage stamina.
- Aggressive playstyle encouraged (weight 0.02): The game encourages aggressive play, rewarding players for breaking enemy parts and disrupting boss mechanics. Boss fights feature unique mechanics that require players to adapt their strategies. The progression system is more forgiving than typical Soulslike games.
- Easy experience retrieval system (weight 0.02): The game provides convenient mechanics for retrieving lost experience points after death, often placing them near boss entrances. Additionally, players continue to gain some experience even when failing against bosses, reducing the need for extensive grinding.
- Intricate maps reward exploration (weight 0.01): Later maps become more intricate, incorporating shortcuts and hidden areas reminiscent of Dark Souls. Exploration is rewarded with treasures and secrets. However, the absence of an in-game map necessitates route memorization.
- Weapon choice impacts difficulty (weight 0.01): The greatsword is a slow but high-damage weapon. Greatsword gameplay might be harder compared to spear or double cleave. The reviewer mentions using a spear, specifically its heavy attack, spirit ability (jump and slash), and moon stance, which made the Viper boss easier.
- Multiple endings and replayable bosses (weight 0.01): The game features multiple endings and a New Game Plus mode. Bosses can be fought repeatedly without starting New Game Plus. Boss challenges award experience points, even if you fail.
- Tedious puzzles and stamina management (weight 0.01): The game includes puzzles that require repeated weapon sheathing and unsheathing, which the reviewer found tedious. The game requires constant attention to the stamina bar.

Performance notes:
- Excellent performance and optimization (weight 0.22): The game is generally well-optimized, running smoothly on a variety of hardware configurations, including older systems and the Steam Deck.  Many reviewers reported high and stable frame rates at various resolutions and settings. Some reviewers specifically noted the absence of bugs, crashes, or the need for day-one patches.
- Good handheld performance (weight 0.01): The game runs well on handheld devices like the Steam Deck and Legion Go.  It achieves playable frame rates with some settings adjustments, making it suitable for portable gaming.
- Minor visual difference (weight 0): There isn't a significant visual difference between the highest and medium graphics options.

Recommendations:
- Highly recommended Soulslike/Action RPG (weight 0.47): The game is highly recommended, especially for fans of Soulslike or action RPGs, with many considering it a must-buy and potential game of the year. Reviewers praise its engaging story, challenging combat, captivating atmosphere, and overall fun factor, often comparing it favorably to titles like Nioh, Sekiro, and Lies of P. Many reviewers express strong positive sentiment and encourage others to purchase the game.
- Try the demo before buying (weight 0.14): Due to concerns about difficulty, price, or performance, reviewers often suggest trying the free demo before purchasing the game. The demo allows players to experience the gameplay firsthand and determine if it aligns with their preferences, with progress often carrying over to the full game.
- Conditional or negative recommendations (weight 0.14): Some reviewers express mixed feelings, recommending the game only under certain conditions such as a sale or after significant patches. Others outright discourage purchasing due to perceived flaws, excessive difficulty, or performance issues, sometimes indicating review bombing due to these issues.
- Minor improvements could elevate game (weight 0.02): Some reviewers feel the game is good but not perfect, suggesting that minor adjustments like boss health or additional content could significantly improve the experience. They believe that with a few patches, the game has the potential to become a masterpiece.
- Deluxe Edition: Worth it? (weight 0.02): Opinions vary on whether the Deluxe Edition is worth the extra cost. Some reviewers recommend it for the early gameplay advantages provided by the included weapon and armor sets, while others suggest sticking with the standard edition.
- Desire for future content/updates (weight 0.02): Many reviewers express hope for future content updates, DLC, or even a sequel to expand upon the game's world and story. They also point out specific areas for improvement, such as visual polish or performance enhancements.
- Good for DFO universe fans (weight 0.01): For fans of the Dungeon Fighter Online (DFO) universe, this game is recommended as a way to explore the lore and characters in a single-player format. Some express excitement for future games based on the DFO IP.
- Significant Korean title (weight 0.01): The game is seen as a significant title in Korean PC gaming history. The reviewer supports Korean soulslike games.
- Falls short of genre benchmarks (weight 0.01): Some reviewers find the game falls short compared to other Soulslike titles like Wukong or Lies of P. They may recommend alternative games with similar gameplay mechanics, such as Nioh or Stranger of Paradise.
- Rewards player improvement (weight 0.01): The game is praised for encouraging players to improve their skills and rewarding them for persistence. Reviewers suggest taking your time, embracing the challenge, and learning from failures.
- Developers addressing bugs (weight 0.01): The developers are actively working to address bugs and improve the game's stability. Reviewers emphasize the importance of continued polishing and listening to player feedback post-release.
- Demo led to immediate pre-order (weight 0.01): The demo was so impressive that some reviewers pre-ordered the game immediately after playing it. The demo experience convinced them that the game was a potential Game of the Year contender.
- Normal difficulty recommended (weight 0.01): Players should choose the normal difficulty for the best experience. Playing on easy difficulty may make the game uninteresting.

Other player notes:
- Reviewer progress and expectations (weight 0.03): Several reviewers mentioned their progress in the game, noting how far they've advanced, including bosses defeated and chapters completed. Some reviewers also shared their initial expectations and whether the game met them. However, many of these points are subjective and based on individual experiences, reducing their overall importance.
- Lack of map (weight 0.03): Some reviewers noted the lack of a map as a drawback, but the level design isn't overly complex, mitigating the issue.
- Anime-inspired art style (weight 0.02): The game features an anime-inspired art style with beautiful graphics that don't require a high-end PC. Some reviewers noted the art style's resemblance to Jujutsu Kaisen or Solo Leveling. The game also features Chinese voice acting.
- Set in DFO universe (weight 0.02): The game is set in the Dungeon Fighter Online (DFO) universe, expanding its lore and world. While prior knowledge of DFO isn't necessary, the game is considered a fan-oriented work for DNF enthusiasts. Reviewers familiar with DFO expressed nostalgia and appreciation for the game's connection to the franchise.
- Combat similar to Nioh/Sekiro (weight 0.01): Reviewers compare the game's combat to titles like Nioh, Sekiro, and Darksiders, highlighting its fast-paced, arcade-like style and abundant loot drops. The game distinguishes itself within the soulslike genre by blending elements from different games.
- Small file size (weight 0.01): The game's file size is relatively small and acceptable. The demo's size is only slightly smaller than the full release version.
- Demo progress carries over (weight 0.01): Progress and achievements from the demo version carry over to the full game, allowing players to continue their journey seamlessly.
- Limited but deep weapon choices (weight 0.01): Players choose a main weapon at the start, with options including a paired axe sword, larger sword, and spear. While weapon choice is limited, each weapon offers significant depth and a steep learning curve.
- Revenge-focused story (weight 0.01): The story revolves around revenge, with Khazan seeking retribution and making deals for power. Some reviewers found the story corny but enjoyable.

Emotions:
No emotions}