News flash: the gacha action-RPG, *Black Beacon*, just launched its global beta test! Unsure if it's worth the download? We dove in headfirst to see if *Black Beacon* has what it takes to become the next mobile gacha king.
Setting and Story
The game unfolds within the awe-inspiring Library of Babel—a nod to Jorge Luis Borges' short story about a library containing every possible book. This isn't your average library; it's a vast, mysterious place drawing inspiration from the biblical Tower of Babel, blending Judeo-Christian mythology with a unique flair. Think *Evangelion* meets a sprawling library.
You play as The Seer, mysteriously awakening in the Library with a weighty destiny: becoming its custodian. Your arrival triggers significant changes, unleashing monsters and setting off a chain of events involving time travel and a clockwork star threatening utter destruction. It's a story full of intrigue and high stakes.
Gameplay
Explore the 3D world of *Black Beacon* from a top-down or free camera perspective, easily switching between views. Real-time combat is the name of the game, a hack-and-slash system where you string together combos and unleash powerful moves. A unique feature encourages switching characters mid-battle, even mid-combo, to allow benched characters to regenerate stamina faster. This tag-team strategy adds a layer of depth without penalizing character swaps, making it feel akin to a stylish anime-infused *Pokémon* battle.
Combat demands timing and awareness of enemy attacks. It's challenging yet accessible, rewarding strategic play rather than mindless button mashing. The diverse cast of characters, each with unique combat styles and moves, ensures every new addition feels significant and engaging. Several characters are compelling enough to foster a desire to learn more about their backstories.
Playing the Beta
Intrigued? The global beta is available on Google Play (Android) and TestFlight (iOS, limited spots). Download and play the first five chapters. Pre-register on the official website for 10 Development Material Boxes, or grab an exclusive costume for Zero via Google Play. While it's early days, *Black Beacon* shows promise and is definitely worth checking out.
