Recently, during a meeting at Summer Game Fest, I had the opportunity to get hands-on with The First Descendant. As I delved into Nexon’s multiplayer looter shooter, I was intrigued to see how it would compete with the likes of Warframe and Destiny 2. However, my initial experience was bewildering as I struggled to grasp the game’s mechanics and setting. It wasn’t until I started playing from the beginning that I began to appreciate the game’s shooting mechanics and character-focused gameplay.
Despite my initial confusion, The First Descendant is still a puzzle to me even after several hours of gameplay. It seems that to truly enjoy it, one must suspend all critical thinking and simply immerse oneself in the action without overanalyzing.
Tune in and tune out
There’s a common sentiment among some that entertainment should be a mindless escape. While I usually seek deeper experiences from movies and games, I can understand the appeal of mindless entertainment, especially in challenging times. The First Descendant caters perfectly to those looking to switch off their brains and indulge in pure, unadulterated gameplay.
The game throws players into a whirlwind of chaos right from the start, with a narrative that is as confusing as it is unexplained. As I navigate through missions and quests, I find myself lost in a sea of information and instructions that make little sense. Yet, the core shooting mechanics are undeniably satisfying, and I find myself drawn into the rhythmic flow of combat, propelled by the immersive sound design and responsive controls.
A certain appeal
While the game may lack coherence and depth in its storytelling, it compensates with engaging gameplay elements such as grappling hooks, character-specific abilities, and a diverse arsenal of weapons. Embracing the chaos and surrendering to the gameplay’s mindless allure, players can find a unique satisfaction in the sheer thrill of shooting and looting.
While I may not be able to offer a traditional review of The First Descendant, I can attest to its ability to provide mindless entertainment for those seeking a break from reality. As players dive into this adrenaline-fueled experience, they can embrace the simplicity of the gameplay and revel in the cathartic release it offers. After all, sometimes we all need a little mindless fun to get us through the day. The First Descendant is available now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
