Info about BLACK SOULS:

Official game description:
Long, long ago, there existed a kingdom shrouded in dense mist: the **Lost Empire**.
This mist twisted humans into terrifying beasts, plunging the world into despair.
War raged endlessly.  
Heroes rose, seeking fame and glory.  
Courtesans dreamt of royal ballroom dances.  
Treasures lay hidden within secret gardens.
All gathered here, only to vanish into obscurity.
It is in this place you awaken—  
a nameless undead.
As the protagonist of this grim tale, what will you witness, and what will you gain?
May you avoid meeting the darkest of ends…
*   Highly open-ended exploration in an open world.
*   Selectable player class.
*   Symbol Encounter system.
*   Tense Active-Time Battle (ATB) system.
*   21 heroines based on famous fairy tales (Alice in Wonderland, Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, etc.).
*   Multiple endings.
*   Death does not result in a Game Over.

Release date: 15 Aug, 2025

Categories: Open-World Exploration, Soulslike Combat, Turn-based Combat, Multiple Endings, Character Progression, Choice-based Narrative, Erotic Simulation


- 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:
- Exceptional Story and Lore (weight 0.71): Players overwhelmingly praise the game's story, lore, and narrative depth, frequently calling it a 'masterpiece' with a compelling and impactful plot. While some describe the story as simple, others highlight its hidden complexities and emotional resonance.
- Rich Content and Replayability (weight 0.57): The game offers substantial content, high replayability, and excellent value for its price, keeping players deeply engaged and often leading to obsession. Its availability on Steam and achievement system further enhance the experience and encourage multiple playthroughs.
- Unique Dark Fantasy Aesthetic (weight 0.39): The game's unique blend of dark fairy tales, Lovecraftian themes, and grimdark fantasy creates a distinctive and immersive world. Its rough yet expressive hand-drawn art style perfectly complements this atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience.
- Top-Tier RPG Maker Game (weight 0.38): The game is highly regarded as a top-tier RPG Maker title, often considered the best in its genre, especially within the 'H-game' category. It pushes boundaries in narrative and gameplay design for RPG Maker games, offering a quality experience even without its adult content.
- Engaging Combat System (weight 0.35): The combat system is widely enjoyed, described as immersive, engaging, and strategically deep, despite some initial learning curve or older system feel. Players appreciate the satisfying parry and dodge mechanics, contributing to a fun and rewarding gameplay loop.
- Authentic Souls-like Experience (weight 0.28): The game is highly praised as a 'Souls-like' experience, effectively capturing the essence of the Dark Souls series with its challenging combat, interconnected world, and mechanics like bonfires and parrying. It's often considered a superior or true spiritual successor to the genre.
- Sequel Enhances Experience (weight 0.13): The sequel significantly improves upon the original, expanding gameplay with new mechanics and character builds, and enhancing world-building and storytelling. This progression makes the series even more compelling, with the second installment often considered a peak.
- Uncensored Patch Recommended (weight 0.12): The game's censored content on Steam can be easily restored with a quick patch, providing the full, uncensored experience. This patch is highly recommended by players for a complete and optimal playthrough.
- Multiple Endings and Heroines (weight 0.12): The game features numerous charismatic heroines and multiple unique endings, often tragic, influenced by player choices. This system encourages multiple playthroughs to explore different character fates and uncover the full narrative.

Common complaints:
- Game requires external patch (weight 0.58): The Steam version of the game is heavily censored and incomplete, requiring an external patch to be fully playable. Without this patch, critical content like character sprites, dialogue, and adult scenes are missing, leading to numerous bugs, progression blockers, and an overall unplayable experience. This unpatched state is considered unacceptable by players.
- Poor optimization and dark narrative (weight 0.45): Players report a generally negative and unoptimized experience, citing frequent crashes, poor performance, and a feeling of incompleteness. The game's narrative is often described as dark, nihilistic, and emotionally taxing, with many players finding the endings unsatisfying or overly brutal.
- Outdated combat and mechanics (weight 0.28): The combat system is frequently criticized for being rudimentary, repetitive, and unengaging, with clunky controls and a lack of depth. The game's reliance on an old RPG Maker engine contributes to outdated mechanics and simplistic visuals, especially compared to its sequel.
- Missing basic game settings (weight 0.1): The game lacks essential quality-of-life features and basic settings. Players cannot adjust resolution, remap keys, or access in-game system settings, leading to a poor user experience and potential loss of progress.
- Missing NPCs and content (weight 0.08): Without the necessary patches, many NPCs are missing from the game world, and crucial dialogues, locations, and plot interactions are cut or altered, severely impacting the narrative and exploration.
- Achievement unlocking issues (weight 0.07): Many players report issues with achievements not unlocking automatically or correctly, often requiring specific actions like loading old saves. This makes completing achievements frustrating and unreliable.
- Unsatisfying erotic content (weight 0.06): The game's erotic content is often described as unstimulating, unnecessary, or poorly executed, with some players finding the art style for these scenes unappealing or even unbearable.
- Patching causes new bugs (weight 0.05): Applying certain language or unofficial patches can introduce new bugs, prevent quest completion, or even make the game unplayable, indicating compatibility issues with community-made fixes.
- Polarizing art style (weight 0.05): The game's art style is polarizing, described as simple, wild, or even like a child's doodle. This unique aesthetic may not appeal to all players, especially those expecting more refined visuals in eroge games.
- Dark and predictable plot (weight 0.04): The plot is described as dark, profound, and at times uncomfortable or bizarre. While some find it engaging, others note that plot twists are predictable or that the narrative feels incomplete.
- Lack of in-game guidance (weight 0.04): The game provides minimal in-game guidance, making progression difficult without external guides. Players struggle to navigate the lore-heavy narrative and access certain areas without assistance.

Gameplay feedback:
- Souls-like Dark Fairy Tale RPG (weight 0.4): The game is heavily inspired by the Dark Souls series, incorporating many of its core mechanics and thematic elements into a 2D, turn-based RPG Maker format. It uniquely blends this Souls-like foundation with a dark, twisted fairy tale setting, featuring familiar characters in a grim context.
- Multiple Endings & Player Choice (weight 0.21): The game features multiple endings (at least four main routes and ten character-specific endings), which are directly influenced by player choices and actions throughout the game. This encourages replayability and careful decision-making.
- Strategic Turn-Based Combat (weight 0.21): The combat system is turn-based, utilizing an Active Time Battle (ATB) system where speed influences action frequency. A key strategic element is the ability to parry and dodge, which are highly effective and can even be used to defeat powerful early-game enemies.
- Undead Progression & Bonfires (weight 0.2): Players assume the role of an undead protagonist, with death leading to soul loss that can be recovered. Souls serve as the primary currency for leveling up and purchasing items, and bonfires act as checkpoints for resurrection and fast travel.
- Adult Content & NPC Interaction (weight 0.13): The game includes explicit adult content (eroge) and features a 'sin' mechanic where players can choose to kill, violate, or imprison NPCs, including heroines. This content is a significant aspect of the game, though some reviewers focused on gameplay.
- Recruitable Companions & Heroines (weight 0.1): The game features numerous companions and heroines that players can encounter, recruit, or lose based on their choices and actions. These characters can be summoned into battle, but their survival is not guaranteed.
- Save System & Exploration (weight 0.1): The game allows for frequent saving, which is recommended before major events or boss battles. It also features options to fast-forward dialogue and battle scenes, and offers some open-world exploration freedom.
- Early Dragon Boss Strategy (weight 0.08): A notable early-game challenge is the demon dragon, which can be defeated by skilled players utilizing the parry and dodge mechanics. Successfully doing so grants a powerful weapon that remains viable throughout the game.
- High Adjustable Difficulty (weight 0.08): The game is noted for its high initial difficulty, which can be challenging for new players. However, the difficulty level is adjustable, allowing players to modify the experience to some extent.
- Deep & Cryptic Lore (weight 0.06): The game possesses a deep and intricate plot, with lore that requires significant exploration and study to fully comprehend. First-time players may need guides to avoid missing crucial story elements.

Performance notes:
- Requires unofficial patch (weight 0.08): Players frequently report that the game is unplayable or severely buggy without an external, unofficial patch. Issues include crashes, missing assets, and incorrect sprite placement, indicating a critical need for a fix.
- Stable post-patch (weight 0.03): Despite the need for an external patch, once applied, the game generally runs without major game-breaking bugs. Players note overall stability, though minor balance and navigation issues can still occur.
- Uses RPGMaker assets (weight 0.02): The game is built using RPGMaker and heavily relies on its default free assets. This gives the game a primitive visual style that some players find unappealing.
- Minor technical quirks (weight 0.02): Some minor technical quirks exist, such as settings only applying after a restart and slight image degradation when resizing the window. These are not critical but affect user experience.
- Good Steam Deck performance (weight 0.01): The game reportedly performs well on the Steam Deck, offering a good experience for players on that platform. This indicates good compatibility with portable gaming devices.

Recommendations:
- Highly Recommended Masterpiece (weight 0.55): Many players highly recommend the game, often calling it a masterpiece, especially for fans of dark fantasy, Souls-like RPGs, and deep, challenging narratives. They emphasize that it's not for everyone due to its mature and sensitive themes, encouraging players to approach it with an open mind and to persist through its difficulties.
- Support Developer & Series (weight 0.12): Many players purchased the game specifically to support the indie developer, Toro, and to encourage the release of future titles on Steam. They see buying the game as a direct way to show appreciation and foster the development of the series.
- Focus on Story & Plot (weight 0.04): Some players recommend focusing on the game's story and plot, suggesting that those short on time can use walkthroughs to understand the narrative. This indicates the story is a key draw for players.
- Wait for Updates/Sales (weight 0.03): A few players note that the game currently has issues and suggest waiting for updates or sales before purchasing, indicating some concerns about its present state or value.
- Manage Adult Content Settings (weight 0.02): There's conflicting feedback regarding the game's adult content; some suggest it can be disabled, while others advise against it, stating that disabling it means missing out on significant lore and themes.
- Good for New JRPG Players (weight 0.02): The game is suggested as suitable for players new to JRPGs or those trying an RPG Maker game for the first time, implying it could be an accessible entry point despite its complexity.
- Play Prequel 'Red Hood' (weight 0.01): One review recommends playing the prequel, 'Red Riding Hood's Woods,' suggesting it adds context or enjoyment to the experience.
- Desire to Grind Labyrinth (weight 0.01): A single comment expresses a desire to grind the 'Chaos Labyrinth,' indicating a specific interest in a particular gameplay element.
- Remap Steam Deck Controls (weight 0.01): One player recommends remapping controls for Steam Deck users, as the default settings are optimized for keyboard/mouse, indicating a minor usability issue on that platform.
- Use Lossless Scaling (weight 0.01): A user suggests using 'Lossless Scaling' for a clean fullscreen experience, offering a technical tip for display optimization.
- Strategy Files Included (weight 0.01): One review mentions that map image files and helpful strategy text are included in the game's installed folder after patching, which is a useful detail for players seeking assistance.
- Disable Rap Battles (weight 0.01): A single piece of feedback suggests turning off 'rap battles' for a more enjoyable experience, indicating a potentially divisive or disliked feature.

Other player notes:
- High Anticipation for Sequels (weight 0.35): Players are highly anticipating the release of the sequel, Black Souls 2 (BS2), and other future titles like Red Death, on Steam. There's a strong desire for the entire series to be available on the platform, with many considering BS2 a masterpiece.
- Fullscreen Mode Issues (weight 0.07): Players frequently mention methods for enabling fullscreen mode, such as using Alt+Enter or adjusting settings via F1. This suggests initial usability issues with display options that require user intervention.
- Player Freedom Encouraged (weight 0.03): Players suggest that the game is best enjoyed by playing freely and making personal choices, as intended by the developer. This implies a non-linear or player-driven experience.
- RPG Maker Indie Title (weight 0.03): The game is identified as an RPG Maker title developed by Sushi Yuusha Toro, representing a new generation of works from indie circles.
- Desire to Find Characters (weight 0.03): Some players express a strong desire to find specific characters like Alice and Norden, indicating memorable character interactions or unresolved plot points.

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.22): Players felt satisfied by the game's overall high quality, engaging combat, rich story, and extensive content, including multiple endings and achievements. The game's replayability, unique art style, and successful blend of genres also contributed to a positive and fulfilling experience. Many found satisfaction in the game living up to its reputation and even surpassing other titles in its genre. Some also expressed satisfaction in supporting the creators and seeing the game improved by patches. The game's dark themes and Souls-like elements were also sources of enjoyment for many. Overall, the game's depth, freedom, and rewarding mechanics led to a highly satisfying experience. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Frustration (weight 0.11): Frustration primarily stemmed from numerous technical issues, including game-breaking bugs, unplayable states without external patches, and problems with achievements. Censorship in the Steam version and missing content also caused significant frustration. Players were also frustrated by the game's high difficulty, forced grinding, lack of clear in-game guidance, and repetitive combat. Specific issues like the F12 key resetting the game and inability to adjust screen size further contributed to negative experiences. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Admiration (weight 0.1): Admiration was driven by the game's exceptional quality, particularly its deep lore, compelling plot, and unique artistic style. Players admired the game's ability to push boundaries within the RPG Maker engine and its successful blend of genres. The game's unique setting, dark narrative approach, and emotional impact were also frequently cited as reasons for admiration. Many reviewers expressed high praise for the developer's creativity and skill in crafting such a high-quality and innovative experience. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Excitement (weight 0.08): Excitement was largely generated by the game's overall high quality, engaging combat, and immersive atmosphere. Many players expressed excitement for the upcoming sequel, Black Souls 2, and the prospect of future content. The game's release on Steam, especially with an uncensored patch, also fueled excitement. The desire to replay the game, explore its deep lore, and experience its emotional impact contributed to a strong sense of anticipation and enthusiasm. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Disappointment (weight 0.08): Disappointment arose from several factors, including the short length of Alice's story and general lack of content, particularly due to censorship and cut features in the Steam version. Players were also disappointed by the game's unplayable state without necessary patches and various technical flaws. Issues like tedious grinding, poor translation quality, and unsatisfactory story endings contributed to a sense of unfulfilled expectations. Some also felt disappointed by the game's perceived average quality or its failure to live up to the standards set by its sequel. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Anticipation (weight 0.06): Anticipation was overwhelmingly focused on the upcoming sequel, Black Souls 2, and future game releases in the series. Players eagerly awaited the Steam release of the second game and expressed a strong desire for more content and installments. The potential for new characters and story elements also fueled this anticipation. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Appreciation stemmed from the game's compelling story, well-developed characters, and unique art style. Players appreciated the developer's dedication and effort in creating a high-quality game, especially within the RPG Maker engine. The game's unique core themes, atmosphere, and its foundational role for the successful sequel were also sources of appreciation. Many expressed gratitude for the game's quality compared to other titles in its genre and a desire to support the creator. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Helpfulness (weight 0.03): Helpfulness was demonstrated by players providing practical advice and solutions to common game issues. This included tips for new players, instructions for applying necessary patches, and guidance on overcoming technical problems or censorship. The shared information aimed to improve the experience for other players, highlighting the community's effort to make the game more accessible and enjoyable. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Joy (weight 0.02): Joy was experienced through the game's overall high quality, engaging plot, and enjoyable gameplay. Players found joy in the game's connection to fairy tales and its positive themes. The availability of the game on Steam and the ability to finally purchase it also brought joy to many. The game's ability to foreshadow the sequel and its overall fun factor contributed to a positive emotional experience. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Support (weight 0.02): Support was expressed as a strong desire to financially back the developer and the game itself. Players re-purchased the game or expressed intent to do so, specifically to fund future games and show appreciation for the creator's work. This indicates a strong loyalty and belief in the developer's projects. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Enjoyment (weight 0.01): Enjoyment was derived from the game's engaging gameplay, compelling story, and immersive atmosphere. Players found enjoyment in exploration, the game's unique theming, and its art style. The desire to achieve all achievements and the quality of specific in-game content also contributed to overall enjoyment. Many expressed a general positive experience with the game. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Affection (weight 0.01): Affection was directed towards specific characters, particularly Leaf and Catherine, and the emotional moments within the story. Players expressed a deep liking for many characters and the game itself, often considering it to hold a special place. This strong positive feeling extended to the game's overall design and specific elements like the elves. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Amusement stemmed from the game's unique combination of genres, humorous self-reflection on its content, and specific gameplay choices that led to entertaining outcomes. Reviewers also found amusement in the game's suggestive nature, dark humor, and the absurdity of certain characters or story elements. Overpowering bosses or specific in-game actions also provided moments of lightheartedness. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Concern (weight 0.01): Concern primarily revolved around the necessity of external patches for the game to function correctly and be uncensored. Players were concerned about the game's unplayability or incomplete experience without these patches, and the potential for game-breaking bugs. There was also concern about the sensitive themes of the franchise being exposed to a wider audience without proper context or warnings. Based on extensive and high-quality feedback. Importance: 0.95
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.01): Enthusiasm was evident in strong recommendations for the game, often describing it as a }