Review: Wuchang: Fallen Feathers — A game that lacks originality, but makes up for it with innovation
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers begins as a traditional Souls-like, but after a few hours, it unveils a deeper and more intriguing layer that sets it apart within the genre. The story follows Wuchang, a pirate infected with a disease that transforms people into grotesque beasts. Set during China’s Ming Dynasty, the game introduces us to iconic characters that contribute to the world’s lore.
As expected from this kind of game, the narrative is not told directly. Instead, it’s hidden behind cryptic messages and ambiguous conversations, without a clear narrative focus like some recent entries in the genre. However, if you’re willing to dig into it, you’ll uncover a surprisingly rewarding story.
Combat sticks to the classic formula: attack, dodge, and counterattack. But what truly sets it apart are its unique risk-and-reward systems. As you fight, you build up a form of negative energy that increases your damage output. However, if you die, this energy takes over your resources and creates a duplicate of your character. To reclaim what you lost, you’ll need to fight this dark version of yourself, encouraging a more strategic and cautious playstyle.
The game offers a wide variety of resources, most of which are used to unlock skills in a multi-branched skill tree. This system allows for both general abilities and weapon-specific upgrades, and best of all, you can reallocate your points at any time. This flexibility encourages experimentation and tactical adaptation.
There are also resources that enhance weapon power or let you perform visually impressive super attacks. You have access to five weapon types, from swords to spears, giving you the freedom to choose between close-quarters or ranged combat. Magic is also available, though it’s more of a support tool than a primary offensive option.
Where Wuchang falters is in its level design, which feels lacking in originality. The developer’s influences from games like Bloodborne, Wo Long, and Nioh are quite evident, which slightly undermines its own identity. Still, the visuals are stunning, enemy designs are creative and terrifying, and the ability to customize your character’s outfit adds a welcome touch of personal expression.
In conclusion, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is a Souls-like that, while not reinventing the genre, manages to stand out thanks to its unique mechanics and compelling setting. With its high difficulty, it clearly aims to appeal to both veteran players and newcomers looking for a serious challenge.
Final Score: 4/5
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