“A combat experience that is uniquely its own”: The First Berserker: Khazan Screams Soulslike, but Its Devs Are Desperate to Prove Otherwise

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Have you ever pondered over what a combination of challenging soulslike gameplay and captivating characters from the Dungeon Fighters Online series might result in? Amazingly, that’s exactly what the upcoming game entails. In this case, we’re referring to none other than The First Berserker: Khazan.

Although the game takes a lot of inspiration from soulborne titles like Elden Ring, Demons Souls, and Dark Souls, the developers of the game are keen on proving that the game is not exactly soulslike. Let’s delve further into the topic and find out why the developers are against comparing the game.

The First Berserker: Khazan is more than any soulslike game

Khazan: The First Berserker is an upcoming action RPG set within the universe of Dungeon Fighters Online (DNF). Initially launched exclusively in East Asian countries back in 2005, it was later re-introduced to the global audience in May 2015. This second release catapulted the game into massive popularity.

The First Berserker: Khazan takes a lot of inspiration from soulslike games and it even slightly resembles a more anime-fied version of Black Myth: Wukong from 2024. While Khazan is driven by soulslike titles, the developers of the game, Neople are enthusiastic about letting gamers know that the title is much more than any soulsborne title.

In a recent interview between GamesRadar and the creative director of the upcoming game, Junho Lee, he emphasized the fact that the game is a new hardcore RPG with its root of DNF intact in the gameplay.

Khazan is often categorized under the soulslike tag, but we see it as more than just a soulslike. It is a unique hardcore action RPG infused with the DNA of Dungeon & Fighter. It’s true that Khazan has certain things in common with soulslike games, such as precise pattern analysis, strategic combat, and a rewarding sense of challenge and achievement. It also combines fast-paced, exhilarating action with a distinct skill system, delivering a combat experience that is uniquely its own.

He also added that whenever a game is given the soulslike title, it is instantly considered hard and challenging. But in the case of Khazan, the game not only has similar gameplay mechanics to Soulsborne games but also intricate game design that makes the title more immersive and fun to play.

The gameplay and art style are enough to blow gamers away

Early receptions for The First Berserker: Khazan is honestly looking great. With elaborate combat mechanics and a breathtaking art style, the title is sure to be one of our favorites. Although the game has taken inspiration from soulsborne genre games, the overall experience of the game is sort of far from it. The title is more inclined towards a DNF duel rather than any soulslike game.

The upcoming title is keen on carving out its own identity rather than following the footsteps of other genres. With its fast-paced combat system, skills mechanics, and strategic depth, the game is sure to be more than just another soulslike title. The game is set to release on March 27 of this year, with early access starting three days earlier than the initial release.

Although the outcome of the game remains uncertain, there’s no doubt in our minds about the captivating art design and engaging gameplay – it could very well become the next global sensation in gaming.

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2025-03-17 15:35