Lies of P

Developer: NEOWIZ

Release: Sep 18th 2023

Platforms:

Single-player Action Adventure RPG

Addictive

Creative

Polished

Atmospheric

Linear

" Thrilling action RPG with deep weapon customization and engaging story but linear levels "

Lies of P Review

Lies of P is a highly praised Soulslike action RPG that offers a dark, atmospheric reinterpretation of the Pinocchio story set in the gothic-industrial city of Krat. Players appreciate the engaging narrative with layered moral choices and a compelling world filled with human and inhuman horrors. The combat system is noted for its precision and rewarding parry mechanics, combined with a unique weapon assembly feature allowing customization and varied playstyles. Boss fights are challenging yet fair, delivering cinematic and intense encounters that keep players invested.

The game is well optimized, running smoothly on various systems including mid-range PCs and the Steam Deck. The soundtrack is widely acclaimed for enhancing the emotional and immersive experience. Despite some linearity in level design and a few clunky mechanics, the overall package is considered polished and satisfying. The recent DLC expands the story and gameplay, further enriching the experience and keeping players eager for more.

Highlights

Players especially praise the tight and satisfying combat mechanics, emphasizing the rewarding parry system and weapon variety. The graphics and art direction receive high marks for their stunning, gothic-industrial aesthetic that evokes a dark Victorian-era atmosphere. The storyline is lauded for its emotional depth, clear narrative, and intriguing twist on the classic Pinocchio tale. Additionally, the soundtrack is highlighted as one of the best, perfectly complementing the game's mood and boss encounters. Optimization and smooth performance are also frequently mentioned as strong points.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the game's linear level design, which limits exploration and player choice compared to other Soulslike titles. Some players find the dodge mechanics less fluid and the combat occasionally clunky or slow. The lack of multiplayer or co-op features is noted as a missed opportunity. Certain bosses and enemies are described as frustrating due to cheap or unpredictable attack patterns. Others mention occasional technical issues such as crashes post-DLC update and some tedious platforming sections. Replayability and side quest depth are also seen as areas for improvement.

Pros

• Engaging and emotionally resonant storyline with clear narrative direction.
• Rewarding and precise combat with satisfying parry mechanics.
• Unique weapon assembly system allowing deep customization.
• Stunning gothic-industrial art style and atmospheric world design.
• Outstanding soundtrack that enhances immersion and mood.
• Well-optimized performance across a range of hardware.
• Challenging but fair boss encounters with cinematic flair.

Cons

• Linear level design restricts exploration and player freedom.
• Combat can feel clunky or slow, especially dodging mechanics.
• No multiplayer or co-op modes limit replayability options.
• Some bosses employ cheap or unpredictable attack patterns.
• Occasional crashes reported, particularly after DLC updates.
• Platforming sections are frustrating and poorly designed.
• Side quests are mostly fetch quests with limited depth.

Rating Criteria

Story

Difficulty

Graphics

Duration

Stability

Worth the Price

About This Game

You are a puppet created by Geppetto who’s caught in a web of lies with unimaginable monsters and untrustworthy figures standing between you and the events that have befallen the world of Lies of P.

You are awakened by a mysterious voice that guides you through the plagued city of Krat - a once lively place that has been poisoned by madness and bloodlust. In our soulslike, you must adapt yourself and your weapons to face untold horrors, untangle the unfathomable secrets of the city's elites and choose whether to confront predicaments with the truth or weave lies to overcome them on the journey to find yourself.

・ A DARKLY ELEGANT AND CRUEL WORLD

Unearth the secrets of the city of Krat – a place soaked in the style of the Belle Epoque era which once thrived due to its puppet industry and now sees its streets covered in blood.

・BATTLE WITH TWISTED INSTRUMENTS

Develop a unique combat style to counter vicious enemies and terrain by weaving together dynamic weapon combinations, utilizing the Legion Arms, and activating new abilities.

・WHAT’S IN A LIE?

There will be times when you will be confronted with choices where you can give comfort to others in sorrow or despair by lying…or you can choose to tell the truth.

Carve your own path.

・A CLASSIC REIMAGINED

Experience the beloved fairy tale of Pinocchio reinterpreted as a dark, grim narrative that allows players to discover the secrets and symbols hidden within the world of Lies of P.