It's set in a dark world similar to DS games, but comes with a different, more dynamic combat system

Dec 31, 2014 22:11 GMT  ·  By

One of the most anticipated titles for next year is From Software's next project, called Bloodborne. Our Incoming 2015 series focusing on the most important games to be released next year could not have skipped this one.

What we know

Sony has been pretty generous in offering lots of information about Bloodborne's setting and combat system. This is evidence that the Japanese company is convinced that the game is going to be very popular among DS fans.

Bloodborne's story takes place in a dark, gothic world, similar to those in Demon's Souls and Dark Souls games, and the new game is set in the Victorian era. Apparently, Miyazaki draws his inspiration for some of the buildings and the environment from what he has seen during a visit to Romania.

One of the most important changes in comparison with the other DS games is the combat system. First of all, combat in Bloodborne will be much faster and players will be more agile when attacking hordes of enemies.

Bloodborne wants players to always be on the offensive when fighting hordes of enemies, otherwise they might be overwhelmed pretty fast. In order to reward those who consider that offensive is the best defense, From Software has implemented an interesting mechanic that allows players to regain a portion of their lost health if they strike back at the enemy within a small window of time.

Players will also be able to take advantage of a wider arsenal of weapons and armors, some of which can even be transformed for a different approach in fights. One thing Bloodborne will not have is shields.

Instead, players will be able to carry a melee weapon in one hand and a firearm in the other. Once again, this emphasizes the new combat system, which is more dynamic and more rewarding for players who favor attack over defense.

Why it matters

Even though it will be exclusively available on PlayStation 4, at least at launch, Bloodborne is seen by many as the spiritual successor of Demon's Souls, one of the most punishing action-RPG titles available on PlayStation.

Dark Souls II was not quite what hardcore fans of From Software's work have expected, but Bloodborne is expected to fill that void and offer players that unforgiven world and combat system that made Demon's Souls and Dark Souls so popular.

It's very important for Sony and From Software that Bloodborne will be a success, because this might be just the first title in a new franchise.

Bloodborne has been confirmed to arrive on PlayStation 4 in North America on March 25, while Europe and Japan are expected to get it one day later, on March 26.

Bloodborne screenshots (10 Images)

Bloodborne artwork
Fight mysterious creaturesCemetery is a dangerous place
+7more