Lies of P is a game that proudly wears its Soulslike influence on its sleeve, drawing inspiration from From Software's iconic titles. While many have tried to emulate the Soulslike experience, Lies of P manages to not only capture the essence of the genre but also infuse it with its unique fairytale charm. This is a game that demands your attention and, believe me, it deserves it.
The game's premise, inspired by The Adventures of Pinocchio, might initially come off as gimmicky, but as you delve deeper into its world, you'll realize that it goes beyond mere shock value. Lies of P uses the familiar character of Pinocchio to tell a compelling story of rebellion, power, and what it means to be human. It's a tale we think we know, but within the confines of a Soulslike, it takes on a whole new dimension.
The combat in Lies of P adheres to the tried-and-true Soulslike formula. It's challenging, unforgiving, and every enemy has the potential to end your journey with just a few missteps. The bosses, in particular, stand out as memorable and present a significant skill challenge. But what sets this game apart are the unique mechanics it introduces over time.
Pinocchio's mechanical Legion arm adds layers of complexity to combat, allowing you to wield elements like fire, electricity, and acid, or employ defensive tools like blocking and grappling. This adds depth to the combat system and keeps you engaged as you discover enemy weaknesses and strategize your approach. The ability to break weapons into handles and blades and employ special Fable Arts moves adds a level of customization that keeps combat fresh and exciting.
The game's world is both beautiful and unique, set in the puppet-infested Krat and its surrounding regions. The Krat Hotel hub serves as your base of operations and is filled with NPCs, shops, and interesting characters. The environments, from a ravaged city plagued by disease to a gothic cathedral filled with horrors, are visually stunning and create an immersive experience. The game runs exceptionally well, with stunning graphics that make you want to capture every moment in screenshots.
Bosses are often the litmus test for Soulslike games, and Lies of P excels in this regard. While most bosses offer a fun challenge, there are a few that will push your skills to the limit, requiring numerous attempts to defeat. They are not only well-designed but also memorable in the way they anticipate your moves, making the battles intense and exhilarating.
One of Lies of P's greatest strengths is how it rewards exploration. Venturing off the main path and engaging in combat encounters will grant you resources like Quartz, which can be used for game-changing upgrades. Even basic enemies offer rewards, be it experience or valuable items that come in handy during tough boss battles.
Lies of P keeps you hooked with its balanced blend of fun and challenge, ensuring you're always driven to explore its twisted fairytale world. It successfully retains the essence of a Soulslike while weaving a unique narrative inspired by Pinocchio. Neowiz has aimed high, and with Lies of P, they've hit the mark with precision.
If you're a fan of challenging action games and have a soft spot for Soulslike adventures, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into Lies of P. Its unique blend of captivating storytelling, intense combat, and beautifully crafted world will keep you thoroughly engaged and leave you craving for more. Give it a try, and you'll find yourself immersed in a memorable gaming experience that's well worth the journey.