
Unleashing Fury: The First Berserker - Khazan Review
2025-03-24
Author: Yan
Dive into the mesmerizing world of "The First Berserker: Khazan," a thrilling new addition to the celebrated Dungeon & Fighter universe!
This action RPG from Korean developer Neople is making waves and is poised to capture the hearts of gamers, particularly those who appreciate the brutal yet captivating mechanics found in Dark Souls and Team NINJA's Nioh series.
An Epic Journey Begins
Dungeon & Fighter, also known as Dungeon Fighter Online, has a legacy that few can match.
While immensely popular in Asia, it’s been relatively obscure in Western markets—until now!
With the launch of titles like "DNF Duel" and "The First Berserker: Khazan," Neople is expanding the reach of their universe.
In this latest installment, players step into the shoes of Khazan, once a revered general, now a disgraced man on a quest for revenge against those who wronged him.
Exiled to the unforgiving Stru Mountains, Khazan's fate takes a supernatural turn after an encounter with the enigmatic Blade Phantom, who not only heals him but bestows powers beyond imagination.
This begins a dual journey of vengeance and destiny, where Khazan must confront the undead that threaten the balance of existence.
A Story Rich with Intrigue
While "The First Berserker: Khazan" may not offer a deeply intricate storyline, it effectively captivates newcomers by introducing the lore gradually.
The game's plot is sprinkled with unexpected twists and features multiple endings, shedding light on the events leading to Khazan's treachery.
The storytelling style mirrors the gameplay of the beloved Souls series, using cutscenes and environmental cues to immerse players in its dark world.
Combat Mechanics That Keep You on Your Toes
The game excels in its core gameplay, offering an experience true to the Soulslike genre.
With stamina-based combat, players engage in fluid fights loaded with light and heavy attacks, dodging, and parrying.
The variety of enemies keeps players constantly adapting, and each encounter is enhanced by well-crafted world design and intricate level progression.
Fans of Team NINJA will appreciate the game's unique Phantom System, which allows for strategic combat enhancements.
Players can summon assistance and tailor their movesets through skill trees that grant varying abilities with each playstyle.
Crafting and gear systems add another layer, letting players enhance their gear and customize their experience further.
Challenging Yet Fair Boss Encounters
Boss fights in "The First Berserker: Khazan" are spectacularly designed, demanding players stay alert and strategize effectively.
Neople has delivered challenging encounters that reward skill over cheesy mechanics, ensuring a satisfying experience even in death—players can reclaim lost experience points, reducing the frustration often felt in punishing games.
For those who may find the challenge daunting, an "Easy Mode" is available to ease newcomers into the action, though this choice comes with caveats regarding achievements.
Customizing gear and skills offers a way to balance difficulty, making it accessible even for less experienced players, without diluting the core experience.
Visuals That Dazzle the Eye
Visually, "The First Berserker: Khazan" stands out with stunning cel-shaded graphics and an oppressive atmosphere that complements its narrative perfectly.
The game runs smoothly on PC with high performance and supports 4K resolution, delivering a feast for the eyes as players engage in intense combat.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Your Time?
Absolutely!
"The First Berserker: Khazan" captivates with its engaging combat and rich lore, creating an unforgettable entry point to the Dungeon & Fighter universe.
With approximately 40 hours required to complete the main story, it's a value-packed adventure that will keep both veterans and newcomers entertained.
Although it may lean heavily on established Soulslike tropes, its execution and mechanics offer enough depth and excitement for any action RPG enthusiast.
WCCFTECH RATING: 9.0
Pros:
- Fascinating setting
- Engaging storyline with depth
- Excellent combat mechanics
- Memorable boss design
- High-quality visuals
- Significant content to explore
Cons:
- A lack of originality in some areas
- Occasional minor performance hiccups