The underrated 85 Metacritic Soulslike game with the best combat in the genre (even compared to Alden Ring)

The Soulslike genre has been a favorite for many gamers since FromSoftware started Demon spirits Back in 2009. Through the years, the developer has introduced a beloved roster of other games in the Soulslike genre. in between Dark spirits, Sekiro: Shadows die twiceand blood borneSoulslike games are defined by their challenging combat and rich worlds filled with mystical lore. There have been many great additions to the genre over the years, but Alden Ring Considered the top by many. However, there is such a thing as a soul that transcends Alden Ring’s gameplay, and not even from a pioneer developer of the genre.

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor It may have had a rough start with its junky launch situation, but looking back, it's clear that the game excels at Soulslike fighting mechanics. of Respawn Star Wars Jedi: Survivor Cal brought another chapter of Kestis' story to life, and while the game isn't perfect, its combat is one of its main features that shines through.

Alden Ring is great and all, but Star Wars Jedi: Survivor nails Soulslike combat

Star Wars Jedi Survivor Finisher Image via Respawn Entertainment

Don't get me wrong. i think Alden Ring There is a top-tier Soulslike, however Star Wars Jedi: SurvivorThe combat is simply more polished and better balanced. when Sekiro Hit the scene, it really showed how dynamic and varied Soulslike combat can be, and it's clear that Star Wars Jedi: Survivor Took notes from the game. That's not it Alden RingIt certainly isn't because its combat is bad, but it leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to snappy and dynamic combat mechanics. Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is in spades.

To first understand why Star Wars Jedi: Survivor Combat trumps Alden Ring, one must first understand Sekiro.

since Star Wars Jedi: Survivor Takes more notes from Sekiro More than any other Soulslike, it is important to distinguish between this FromSoftware game and its successor, Alden Ring. Sekiro While the cute and mechanic is very conducive to dexterity Alden RingThe combat mainly focuses on building the player's character. When it comes to enemies and bosses, Sekiro Can feel more rewarding because its one-weapon approach requires each opponent to be fine-tuned to be able to fight with the katana. with Alden RingThe customization allowed to players with their characters means bosses can't be hyper-specific. Sekirowho While Alden Ring Pride builds character Sekiro Lack, it also gets in the way of how fine-tuned the owners can be.

Respawn Entertainment morale hits an all-time low Image via Respawn Entertainment

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor takes Sekirois a favorable approach and slows it down a bit. Its cute system is reminiscent, but simple, and the game still focuses on mastery, while still being very forgiving. Sekiro. With more options to customize Cal, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor Ultimately a solid mix of both Sekiro and Alden RingEven if that wasn't Respawn's intention.

Between Sekiro and Alden Ring, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor offers the best of both worlds

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor hugs Sekirobut it also offers character customization that many Soulslike fans appreciate. Alden Ring. The main way the game does this is through Cal's stances. There are fewer options Alden Ringof classes, but it gives the game an extra dose of versatility in its combat.

Every stance for Cal Kestis in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor and what they do

  • Single

  • Double-bladed

  • Dual weld

  • Crossguard

  • Blaster

stance

capacity

Single

This is Cal's default stance. It's simple and straightforward, balancing speed, defense, and power. A single stance's special attack can still deal solid damage with a strong target strike.

Double-bladed

Two lightsaber blades emerge from a central handle, like Darth Maul's. This stance is fast and great for taking on large groups of enemies, but it lacks a bit of power.

Dual weld

With the Dual Wield Stance, Cal can hold a lightsaber in each hand, which makes for some incredibly fast combat. For those who prefer a more aggressive fighting style, Dual Weld is a good option, but it has less protection.

Crossguard

As the name suggests, this stance adds a crossguard to Cal's lightsaber reminiscent of Cal Ren's. It essentially acts as a broadsword, making Cal's attacks incredibly powerful, but slow.

Blaster

This stance adds a blaster to Cal's arsenal for several long-range attacks and is one of the most versatile stances in the game.

While Star Wars Jedi: SurvivorThe five stances don't offer that much variety Alden RingWith 10 starting classes, the small number of options actually makes combat feel more balanced. Alden RingThe many classes and customization possibilities actually make enemies feel less fine-tuned, and Star Wars Jedi: SurvivorThe smaller approach still allows for player freedom while remaining more focused. It's not just a mixture that makes up Star Wars Jedi: SurvivorThe fight is more varied but more fun.

Alden Ring may still be seen as the king of Soulslikes, but Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is an underrated contender.

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor's launch issues gave it an unfair reputation

When the game was first released, players were plagued by various performance issues, especially on PC. Star Wars Jedi: SurvivorThe PC's poor performance was certainly worthy of criticism, but it also detracted from many of the game's best qualities. Among both critics and many players, welcome Star Wars Jedi: SurvivorCombat is incredibly positive, now that performance issues have been patched out.

Cal Kestis holding a lightsaber Image via Respawn Entertainment

When it comes to the Soulslike genre, it can be really hard to compare each one, as they all share a common core with their own unique twists. Many Soulslike fans have their own opinions about which game is the best in the genre, and even suggesting it's a non-FromSoftware offering might be controversial. Taste is wildly subjective, however Star Wars Jedi: Survivor There is a strong mix of combat mechanics that I find more than satisfying Alden Ring.


Star Wars Jedi: Survivor tag page cover art


issued

April 28, 2023

ESRB

T for teenagers due to mild language, violence

Publisher(s)

Electronic Arts


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