Lies of P: A Surprisingly Good But Flawed Soulsborne-style Game
Hey there, fellow gamers! Today, I want to talk to you about a game that might have flown under your radar: Lies of P. Now, I know what you’re thinking. A Soulsborne-style game based on Pinocchio? Sounds like a joke, right? Well, believe it or not, this game actually exists, and it’s not half bad. It may not be a masterpiece or a groundbreaking title, but there’s something about it that keeps drawing me back in.
Unveiling the Potential
Before we dive deeper into this game, let me address something. You might have seen a review on VG247 giving Lies of P a less-than-stellar rating. But hey, different people have different opinions, right? I’m here to give you my take on it. The review did touch on some valid points, like the game’s lackluster level design and messy combat. However, there’s something more to Lies of P that I find intriguing.
When it comes to combat, I find it to be pretty solid overall. The weapons offer enough variety to keep things interesting, and enemy attacks are usually well-telegraphed (although occasionally unfairly punishing). And let’s not forget the fancy robot arm with its different attachments, which adds a layer of fun not found in Bloodborne’s simple guns. But, there’s a catch…
Looking Beyond Combat
For me, what truly sets FromSoftware’s games apart is not just the combat, but the meticulously crafted worlds they create. From the interconnected spaces to the intriguing lore hidden in item descriptions, FromSoftware has mastered the art of world-building. Sadly, Lies of P falls short in this aspect.
The game attempts to deliver lore through various notes scattered around, but they fail to captivate. Some of the notes even come off as silly. While the aesthetics of some of the game’s locations are enjoyable, the abundance of shortcuts makes them feel less immersive, as if they were designed solely for the player’s convenience rather than a believable world.
The Power of Time
Here’s the thing: FromSoftware has one major advantage that Round8, the developer of Lies of P, doesn’t have—time. FromSoftware has been refining and improving its Soulslike formula since 2009, with each release building upon the previous one. The team’s consistency in creating challenging games is often overlooked but is crucial to their creative success. Just take a look at the highly anticipated Elden Ring to see the payoff.
Considering this, I must say that Lies of P is quite impressive. While it may not reach the same heights as FromSoftware’s masterpieces, it’s commendable for Round8 to even attempt a Soulslike game. After all, FromSoftware’s earlier works, such as King’s Field, weren’t universally loved at the time of their release either.
Aiming for Uniqueness
Of course, there is a difference between Lies of P and the game that started it all, Demon’s Souls. The latter was revolutionary, while the former plays it safe by imitating the greats that came before it, rather than fully embracing the wildness of its own setting. But fear not, because Round8 might just find its own voice in the future and create something truly special.
I, for one, am excited to see what Round8 has in store for us next. If the post-credits scene is any indication, we might be in for an even wilder ride with their next project. So, keep an eye out and don’t dismiss Lies of P just yet. It may not be a flawless game, but it definitely has its moments and shows potential for future greatness.
Conclusion
In the world of gaming, sometimes the most unexpected combinations can yield surprising results. Lies of P, a Pinocchio-inspired Soulsborne-style game, is a prime example of this. While it may not have the same level of polish as FromSoftware’s masterpieces, it manages to capture a glimmer of their essence. With its solid combat, albeit flawed world-building, Lies of P presents a unique gaming experience.
So, my fellow gamers, I urge you not to overlook Lies of P. Give it a chance and embrace its potential. Who knows, you might discover something special hidden within its digital depths. And remember, just like in gaming, taking risks and pushing boundaries can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Happy gaming!