Neople's Dungeon and Fighter franchise has quietly dominated the gaming landscape for over two decades, yet it remains a well-kept secret outside of Asia. With its launch in the U.S. in 2010 and a subsequent revival in 2015, this MMO brawler has not only raked in earnings surpassing iconic franchises like Looney Tunes, TMNT, and The Avengers but has also left an indelible mark on the gaming community. Recently, Neople has partnered with Nexon to expand the franchise's horizons, introducing console adaptations that include last year's fighting game DNF Duel, co-developed with the legendary Arc System Works.

Further expanding its portfolio, Neople is set to release Dungeon and Fighter Overkill, a 3D side-scrolling beat 'em up, and an ambitious open-world RPG, Dungeon and Fighter: Arad, aiming to rival popular titles like Genshin Impact. Fans eagerly await the next installment in this evolution: The First Berserker: Khazan, scheduled to launch on March 27.

This upcoming release positions itself firmly within the "hardcore action RPG" genre, often labeled as a "soulslike." However, The First Berserker: Khazan breathes fresh life into familiar formulas. With its fast-paced action, punishing difficulty, and vivid anime-inspired visual aesthetics, this game is set to capture the hearts of action RPG aficionados. While it borrows conventions from the esteemed FromSoftware lineup, it manages to carve out its own unique identity.

A Hero's Descent into Revenge

In The First Berserker: Khazan, players step into the shoes of Khazan, a once-revered barbarian and general of the Pell Los Empire. After slaying the Berserk Dragon, Hismar, alongside the empire's greatest mage, Ozma, Khazan's fall from grace begins when he is summonsed by the emperor under false pretenses, marking him a traitor. Betrayal leads to execution, and Khazan finds himself tortured and sentenced to death.

But fate has other plans. On his way to execution, a phantom awakens his latent power, forging an unexpected alliance. As both seek revenge—the specter yearning to restore balance in the chaotic underworld, and Khazan desiring vengeance against the emperor—the players are drawn into a gripping narrative filled with twists, nostalgia, and emotional stakes.

An Engaging Narrative Experience

Unlike traditional soulslike games, The First Berserker: Khazan offers a more hands-on approach to storytelling. Beautifully illustrated hand-drawn sequences convey backstory and emotional resonance, while character interactions occur in a central hub, leaving players intrigued yet not overwhelmed. Additionally, an encyclopedia and character relation chart complement the lore, allowing players to deepen their understanding of the realm.

Character familiarity with Dungeon and Fighter is not essential to enjoy this standalone story, although long-time fans will likely appreciate the sly references and connections dispersed throughout the plot.

Combat that Keeps You on Your Toes

Khazan’s combat mechanics are a thrilling blend of agility and strategy, reminiscent of a mix between Bloodborne and Team Ninja's Nioh. The game employs a mission-based structure where players traverse various levels culminating in intense boss battles that require precision and timing. Exploration is rewarded with side missions and nostalgic rematches against previous adversaries, adding layers to the gaming experience despite moments of repetition.

The loot system encourages experimentation, with weapons like Dual Blades, Greatsword, and Spear each boasting unique skill trees. However, unlike traditional RPGs, players might find themselves changing gear frequently, keeping combat fresh and engaging. Mastery is achieved through dodging and parrying, essential to countering the aggressive attack patterns of enemies.

Tackling Difficulty with Impressive Adaptations

Though Khazan is labeled "hardcore action," it doesn't shy away from modified gameplay mechanics to ensure accessibility while retaining challenge. Boss fights are designed to push players to their limits, but the game smartly places respawn points right outside these fierce encounters, eliminating long treks back into the fray.

For players seeking a lower difficulty, the game provides an easy mode without over-simplifying the challenge. Instead of diminishing the excitement, it still offers tough enemies with adjusted mechanics, making every playthrough rewarding.

Challenges on the Horizon

While The First Berserker: Khazan excels in many aspects, it has its pitfalls. Some sections feel shoehorned into the gameplay, echoing familiar soulslike tropes that may disrupt its fast-paced rhythm. Instances of instant-death traps or unclear level designs cater to genre expectations but sometimes detract from the fluid action that defines the game.

Nevertheless, with its compelling combat, dynamic narrative, and intelligent adjustments to gameplay mechanics, The First Berserker: Khazan promises to leave a significant impact on the action RPG landscape. Launching on March 27 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC—with a three-day advance access for Deluxe edition owners—this title is set to raise the stakes in a genre ripe for innovation. Prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with chaos, combat, and conquests!