Black Beacon: A Hands-On Look at the Global Beta Test
Black Beacon, the gacha action-RPG, recently launched its global beta test. Intrigued? Read on for our in-depth review after spending the weekend playing the beta.
Setting and Story
The game unfolds within the Library of Babel, a setting drawing inspiration from Jorge Luis Borges' short story and the biblical Tower of Babel. This unique blend of literary and religious references creates a compelling backdrop, reminiscent of works like Evangelion.
Players assume the role of The Seer, awakening in this enigmatic library with a weighty destiny: custodianship of the Library of Babel. The Seer's arrival triggers significant changes, including a monstrous emergence from the depths, time-travel elements, and a looming threat from a clockwork star.
Gameplay
Black Beacon offers 3D free-roaming exploration with adjustable camera perspectives (top-down or free camera). Real-time combat features combo chaining and strategic character switching mid-battle. This tag-team mechanic allows benched characters to regenerate stamina, encouraging dynamic team management similar to Pokémon.
Combat demands skillful timing and awareness of enemy patterns, rewarding strategic play over button-mashing. The diverse roster of characters, each with unique combat styles, ensures engaging and varied gameplay.
Beta Experience
The global beta, accessible via Google Play (Android) and TestFlight (iOS – limited slots), allows players to experience the first five chapters. Pre-registration through the official website rewards players with 10 Development Material Boxes, while Google Play pre-registrants receive an exclusive costume for Zero.
While it's premature to definitively label Black Beacon a future gacha giant, our initial impressions are promising.
