Skautfold: Moonless Knight is an on-the-fence experience. I’m not sure if I love it or hate it. The combat system requires skill and almost perfect timing. Accordingly, it is a little frustrating. However, the story is fantastic. It offers rich lore, incredible characters, and a slow, dramatic pace. Although this may not be for everyone, I liked the old-school RPG edge.
This story-driven Metroidvania was published and developed by Red Art Games. It is a single-player title that takes around 15 hours to complete. I felt out of my depth for much of this time, but the captivating story and exceptional art style were enough to keep me hooked. This is the 4th instalment in the franchise, and the 1st that I have tackled. Therefore, my confusion and struggles could simply be down to my lack of familiarity.
Skautfold: Moonless Knight tells a fantastic tale.
Much of my confusion is linked to the Lovecraftian elements. I always find this to be hard to follow. Yet, lovers of this approach will feel right at home with the weirdness and the alternative ideas.
You play the role of Gray, a knight of the Angelic Empire of Britannia. You are sent on a diplomatic mission that almost immediately goes wrong. Rather than creating a peaceful outcome, you must interact with Lunatic cultists to save the Japanese Empire.
The story takes many twists and turns as you tackle an array of bosses in any order you wish. This lack of linear structure was great, but I’d have preferred more focus. Instead, I went from mission to mission, anyway I liked.
More of an RPG than a Metroidvania.
Skautfold: Moonless Knight claims of being a full-blown Metroidvania are slightly OTT. Although there are clear moments where new elements open secrets and pathways, it is distinctly a JRPG. If I were to be picky, I’d say the Metroidvania moments play second fiddle alongside some Souls-lite elements. This may make you frown, but the latter point refers to the challenging combat guard system.
The combat is the most divisive aspect of this title. The near-perfect block and guarding system can be extremely frustrating to master. Moreover, it feels pretty slow, and this makes the story and gameplay flow particularly stodgy. Yet, if you can master this tough mechanic and deal with the snail-like pace, you’ll enjoy some of the most rewarding combat experiences.
Working your way across each semi-open arena was great. The Oda Imperial Palace is a maze of interconnected corridors that are filled with danger and secrets. Furthermore, you can explore them however you wish. This was great, even if it did make things a little more confusing than necessary.
Skautfold: Moonless Knight looks incredible!
Despite my struggles, I adore the incredibly atmospheric world. The blend of Victorian Gothic elements with the Japanese architecture supports the sinister plot. Furthermore, the smooth 60 FPS action was appreciated when tackling this on my Xbox Series X. On top of this, the level design is amazing. The world is filled with secrets, and a keen eye rewards the hardest-working players.
Unlike other RPGs, the soundtrack isn’t that memorable. However, it does a great job of adding authenticity to the Asian feel. The gothic imagery is complemented by a chilling ambience that highlights the sense of isolation and doom. Finally, each boss battle is the culmination of drama and suspense as the audio ramps up the tempo and pressure.
Love it or hate it!
The controls are a divisive element of the action. Skautfold: Moonless Knight has a love it or hate it approach that pushes you over the edge. Once you master the controls, you’ll find the combat to be rewarding. However, until that happens, it could put you off before you get into the flow.
The developer has incorporated multiple endings, relics and tools to focus on stats and sub weapons, and primary weapon consideration. On top of this, you’ll enjoy NG+ for new bosses and Ninja Pugs if you love to find collectables. Therefore, there is plenty of replay value if you can stomach the tough combat learning curve.
Skautfold: Moonless Knight is challenging but fun.
I may sound like I’m moaning, but I’m not. I want to highlight the brutality of the game so you can make an informed decision. In no way is it as challenging as a generic Souls title, but it will push your buttons. Therefore, if you lack patience, this won’t be the game for you. Yet, if you have the time to work through things, there is a lot to enjoy. Accordingly, I think it is good, and I recommend buying it here! Can you bring peace to the empire? Choose your approach, explore the Palace, and save the day.
