Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition – Review

OUR RATING: 9/10

Coming from the team behind the Nioh titles, When Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty first launched, it quickly captured the attention of souls-like fans. It’s challenging yet approachable combat style was the star of the show, and the stellar boss fights did a brilliant job of showcasing that. Building on that foundation, the Complete Edition offers players a multifaceted experience, adding the three DLCs in a bombastic singular package.

For folks new to the game, it takes inspiration from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms and adds a fantasy twist, incorporating mythological elements throughout the gameplay. Players embark on a gripping journey as a nameless militia soldier navigating the challenges of a world infested with demons.

The standout feature of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty remains to be its combat system. The game revolves around managing “spirit” and encourages an aggressive playstyle, ensuring a dynamic pace. The combat system, which is deflect/parry-based, adds depth and makes engagements enjoyable regardless of the chosen build. Additionally, the game incorporates RPG elements, including character customization and a simplified stat system based on the Chinese philosophy of the five phases.

Visually, Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty impresses with its beautiful graphics and well-executed art direction. The game creates a dark fantasy atmosphere that immerses players in its world. Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty – Complete Edition includes the main game, along with three DLC packs: the Battle of Zhongyuan DLC, the Conqueror of Jiangdong DLC, and the Upheaval in Jingxiang DLC. This comprehensive package offers players a significant amount of content to explore. The base game alone takes close to twenty-five hours to beat, and with the addition of the DLC, players can easily add ten to fifteen more hours to their gameplay. The Complete Edition provides a satisfying bundle for players who have been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to experience everything the game has to offer.

The game takes players on a journey through the shadows of the Later Han Dynasty China in 184 AD. The game weaves a dramatic and action-packed narrative, delving into the chaos and destruction plaguing the land. The protagonist, a nameless militia soldier, symbolizes both a yet-to-be-discovered hero and the journey of officers destined for greatness during their ‘unknown’ period. This unique setting adds depth to the narrative, creating an engaging and immersive experience.

In true souls-like, Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is known for its challenging gameplay. Players must face off against formidable enemies, including powerful bosses. The combat mechanics require precision and timing, with a focus on parrying attacks to break an opponent’s defense and open them up for a counter-strike. Aggression and constant pressure on opponents are key to success, as aggressive strikes and parried attacks build up the Spirit meter, allowing players to unleash powerful Martial Arts and Spells.

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty adopts a more linear approach compared to other titles in the Souls-Like genre. Players complete set missions through areas known as Battlefields, with room for exploration and side quests along the way. While the linear structure provides clear objectives, there is still an element of freedom within each Battlefield. Players can increase their capabilities through the morale and fortitude systems. Morale builds as enemies are defeated, making the player more powerful, and fortitude acts as a minimum for morale, ensuring it never drops too low. Marker Flags placed on the Battlefield increase fortitude, providing an advantage in battle.

Another one of the highlights of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is its boss battles. These wonderfully designed encounters offer some of the most challenging and memorable moments in the game. Each boss presents a unique and formidable challenge, requiring players to learn their attack patterns and adapt their strategies accordingly. Overcoming these difficult encounters is incredibly satisfying and fuels the player’s determination to face the next battle.

While Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition offers an engaging and immersive experience, it is not without its flaws. The lack of difficulty balance and rushed conclusion hinder the game’s overall potential. That said, nothing stops its engaging combat system, captivating RPG elements, and impressive aesthetics from shining through. With the addition of the DLCs and the overall improvements to the original game, this is the definitive way to experience the game.