While Flintlock is another addition to the long list of Souls-like titles released in the past few years, it’s trying to do things a bit differently as well. Combining the aspects of both Bloodborne and Dark Souls, the game seeks to appeal to a wider audience, but it’s not achieving its desired goals.
Those coming from FromSoftware titles such as Elden Ring, Sekiro, and Bloodborne will undoubtedly draw comparisons, and this has led to many pointing out obvious flaws in the game. One of the most glaring appears to be the combat system in the game.
Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn’s Combat Under Scrutiny for Lacking Responsiveness
Quick combat is one of the hallmarks of Souls-like titles. Whether it’s Hollow Knight, Bloodborne, or even Lies of P. Fans of the genre have now come to expect crisp controls that allow the player to seamlessly switch from attacking to dodging or blocking. Sadly, Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn is not offering players this level of polish.
The game has borrowed many elements from Hidetaka Miyazaki’s games. However, the combat system does not feel as refined. Flintlock players have already remarked about how some attacks leave you trapped in the animation, unable to dodge or cancel out of it. Now, another player is comparing the title to FromSoftware games.
Redditor GonzoAudio2000 states that the unoptimized combat is turning them away from the game. Some replies have agreed with the OP’s viewpoint, claiming the combat is very janky and even the world does not feel as well-crafted.
One comment has said the combat controls might end up turning them away from the game entirely.
However, some commenters have come to the defense of the title, saying it just takes more time to get used to the new system.
FromSoftware has set a very high bar for future Souls-like games, and few have managed to reach the same level of finesse. A44 Games might not be trying to adapt the combat style entirely, but not being in the same ballpark might affect the game’s longevity.
Early Impressions of A44’s Title Are Less Than Stellar
It’s not expected for games to reach the heights achieved by FromSoftware, but some titles, such as Lies of P, have managed to deliver a satisfying Souls-like experience while innovating in the space. Unfortunately, the early reception of Flintlock has not been similar, as many who have played the title are not overly impressed by what it offers.
The game does try to change things up, offering the ability to level up via skills rather than attributes and the help of a companion. However, the core aspects of FromSoftware games that make them works of art appear to be missing from A44’s latest release.
It might take a few patches and updates, but the studio has the chance to fix the current state of the game and offer players the experience they want. Taking player feedback into account might be the best way to go forward and ensure the title isn’t just a flash in the pan.
What are your impressions of the game’s combat? Let us know in the comments below!
