NieR: Automata
(Mar. 7 – PS4, TBA – PC)
Although one PlatinumGames exclusive was canceled recently, that doesn’t mean fans of the studio are out of a game. NieR: Automata, which is being published by Square Enix, is set to hit PS4 and PC later this year. It’s due to bring a mix of the action that PlatinumGames has come to be known for, and solid action-RPG systems to deliver a crumbling world full of beauty and terrifying bosses.
From what we’ve tried of the demo, the game is looking pretty impressive. The combat is fast-paced with a healthy balance between swordplay and ranged weaponry. Bosses are large spectacles that have you relying on timing as well as movement to topple them. And the clever use of camera angles helps to add variety to the experience. At one point it will have the camera right behind you, only to switch to a side-scrolling experience for a few minutes, then to a top-down adventure. It helps to keep the gameplay fresh while keeping the action coming.
It’s a bit different from the likes of Kingdom Hearts III and Final Fantasy VII, but definitely something any RPG fan may want to try out.