Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice Review

The last generation of consoles saw FromSoftware become a well-known name throughout the gaming world. First established more than 20 years ago, the studio has become known for its high-quality games in recent times. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is the latest in a long line of successful titles that stretches back to 2009’s Demon’s Souls. Obviously, the fact that the developer was working on such a different looking game caused a great deal of interest. But does Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice hold up when compared to FromSoftware’s previous work?

Story

Unlike the majority of FromSoftware’s recent games, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice has a proper story. While the likes of Dark Souls did have a plot, at least in principle, it was never a crucial element. Instead, those games put the focus on exploration and world-building. These are still factors in the new game but a proper story is now in place.

Set in the Sengoku period of Japan, the plot centers on a shinobi known as Wolf. Defeated by a powerful foe, who also cut off his arm, he suffers from amnesia but can revive himself. This is the result of his Dragon Heritage, which flows in his blood. Much of the narrative is spent trying to protect this mystical force.

You no longer have to go out in search of any backstory. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice wants the story to be front and center. Interesting characters are around every corner and you even have the ability to experience different endings through the choices you make. Full cutscenes are also included, bringing some emotion and depth to the interactions between the characters.

Ultimately, it makes sense to include such a deep story in a more familiar world. The Dark Souls games are alien and full of wondrous monstrosities. Players were content to explore these strange fantasy environments. However, with a more historical setting and human characters, players need more context and backstory as motivation.