Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition is the perfect opportunity for newcomers to enjoy this challenging experience. The full package approach includes all DLC as well as an array of new weapons and other in-game items. As such, if you fancy stepping into a tough but rewarding world, then this could be your best opportunity.
This hellish Souls-like was developed by Team Ninja and published by KOEI TEMCO. Moreover, it utilises some familiar mechanics from other much-loved Souls titles. Accordingly, you get to “enjoy” the brutal but rewarding gameplay that we’ve all come to love. Yet, there are some frustrating elements that you cannot avoid. As such, you have to roll with the punches as every boss slaps you in your armoured face.
Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition tells a historical tale.
Admittedly, my understanding of the Chinese dynasties is somewhat rusty. I further admit that I had to research the Three Kingdoms Dynasty to get a greater understanding of the compelling adventure I was about to undertake. However, my limited knowledge didn’t hold me back, and I fell for Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition’s charm.
The year is 184 AD and you are a nameless warrior trying to survive in a dark fantasy version of the Later Han Dynasty. Unfortunately, survival is a tough ask as demons plague the land and ungodly humans stand in your way. However, combining razor-sharp swordplay and martial arts is your key to survival. Furthermore, working with historical warriors to tackle ridiculous overlords rarely becomes tiresome.
A pinch of other titles.
The Souls-like genre is vast, overbearing, and tough to nail down. People bemoan the statement Souls-like as it is overused and often refers to anything that kicks your ass. Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition is 100% a Souls game, and it cleverly borrows elements from its peers. You’ll be right at home if you have tackled Sekiro or Nioh 2. Thankfully, though, it is nowhere near as tough as the latter. This was a relief as I almost lost my hair trying to master the refined elements and the tough combat.
Talking of combat, this is where much of the action shines. The incredibly challenging fights require a fine understanding and the poise, rhythm, and balance of a professional dancer. Parrying is king and manipulating your Spirit meter to keep you on track is an art on its own. Yet, where this gives you some breathing room is the ability to defend yourself at all costs. As long as you have some Spirit power, you can block incoming blows.
Focus on that meter.
Remaining focused on your Spirit meter and the movement of your foes is no easy task. Each hulking enemy pieces together combos for fun. Additionally, they sway and bluff to get you to react and drop your guard. However, once you piece together their telltale moves, and you spot a weakness, you can go in for the kill.
Alternatively, you can risk it all by using this meter to slay anything in your path. Understandably, the more juice you have in reserve, the more powerful your blow. Yet, this risk vs reward approach can leave you vulnerable. Consequently, you must weigh up this all-or-nothing approach or respect the fact that you could lose it all.
Plenty to see and do.
Losing yourself in an epic main story is what makes these games phenomenal. Luckily, though Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition has an impressive selection of side missions to complete as well. Battling epic bosses or mopping up waves of lesser beings never gets old. Additionally, it supports the incredible morale system perfectly.
This balanced approach to the gameplay allows you to enjoy a separate progression system. Moreover, you can weigh up your tactics as you tackle challenging mobs of enemies or pick off weaker creatures. Either way, you can generate harder hits to lower morale enemies or sustain massive damage if you approach the wrong person. This fine balancing act is spectacularly simple but oh-so rewarding.
Loot!
Love it or loathe it, loot is a massive part of Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition. The masses of shite that you gather drove me insane. However, it is this level of detail and depth that impresses fans of customisation. Additionally, it helps you to mould your gameplay style as you test new builds and trial different weapons.
Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition looks fantastic.
A dark fantasy twist on a brutal era is worthy of Hollywood status. Thankfully, Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition doesn’t disappoint. The flashy combat, large opponents, and exceptional environments are a treat. Moreover, I loved the excellent animation and energy of each combat encounter. If you then consider the impressive cinematic, you have to agree that this lives up to the hype.
The audio complements every element. The booming and impressive soundtrack is punctuated by awesome dialogue and mind-blowing sound effects. This is then supported by crunching weaponry, cruel screams, and amazing ambient noises. In short, it is grim but aesthetically pleasing.
Superb controls.
Getting the most out of this isn’t easy. You must be dexterous, alert, and nimble. Moreover, you need to study your opponents and learn every telltale weakness. Thankfully, though, each of these complex elements can be countered by the superbly responsive controls. Additionally, the button layout is simple to understand and relatively easy to master.
This will keep you playing for hours! There is plenty of DLC to tackle and there is cooperative and competitive online action to enjoy. As such, if you wish to prove your worth, you can. Alternatively, if you wish to go on an adventure with your friends, the option is there. Either way, this delivers masses of replay value and longevity.
Wo Long Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition is fantastic.
This souls-like is a phenomenal addition to the genre. If you then consider the included DLC, the online action, and the interesting morale system, it offers plenty of food for thought. On top of this, I liked the occasionally forgiving mechanics that juxtapose some of the harsh realities of these titles. Subsequently, I love it and I recommend buying it here!
