Ive been to hell and back and I loved every minute of it.
I took a full week off to play FromSoftwares latest gameSekiro: Shadows Die Twice.
This past week has easily been among my favorite video game experiences of all time.
FromSoftware is a storied Japanese developer best known for theDark Soulsgames, andSekirois the latest evolution of that series.
A warlord named Genichiro is out to get that immortality for save his clan.
The game starts with Wolf getting his left arm chopped off by Genichiro.
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Sekirolets you zip across the battlefield, crawl through tall grass, and even swim your way around foes.
Youre constantly outnumbered and picking off opponents (using stealth kills is the key to success).
A lot ofSekiros combat revolves around the games posture system.
This is a new meter that fills as you block hits or take damage.
Once its filled youll be staggered, leaving you open for an easy attack.
This system works both ways though.
Another huge new addition to the series isSekiros resurrection mechanic.
Every time you die, youll be presented with the option to resurrect once.
These checkpoints used to be bonfires in the Souls games, but now theyre little idols.
For those of who loved the soul-crushing difficulty ofDark Souls, dont worry.
The resurrection mechanic doesnt makeSekiroany easier than earlier From offerings.
Initially I was weary of those changes, but Ive grown to love them.
Its not about your level or your equipment, its about studying your opponents moves and exploiting their weaknesses.
Victory always feels like its within reach, but youll have to work for it.
A feeling no other game offers.
Like its predecessors,Sekirois daunting, unforgiving, and unwelcoming.
After my week-long staycation I can safely say thatSekirois a true masterpiece.
The result is a tougher, but fairer game.
It feels likeSekirois the game From always wanted to make, but couldnt, until now.
And when one of the best developers in the business makes their magnum opus, we all win.
Even if it beats us into submission before it lets us enjoy it.
