Review from a LONG time Soulsborne player - I've spent hundreds of hours in Souls, and was in disbelief playing the Nioh beta/trials; could it really be THIS good? I waited to write this review until I had finished Nioh, or at least spent a decent amount of time in the end game. After doing so, taking well over 100 hours, I've concluded that this IS NIOH. It's not Souls, it's not Bloodborne, it's not Ninja Gaiden. THIS IS NIOH. And it's so damn good! Nioh has opened my eyes to what I was missing from Souls, and what I didn't know I needed - qualities that I really do need, and love. The looting is an evolved diablo-like system that is so, so, oh so great. The combat is complex and precise - my god, the hit boxes on myself and enemies are amazing. I have seen spear thrusts go over my shoulder almost touching my ear, but missed, and I took no damage. The co-op is jolly to the max, the "glamurai" dress up play is massive with dozens and dozens of armor sets, and the skill tree per weapon you favor is varied. I play co-op a lot - I stick around the difficult levels and assist players every chance I can, and I rarely see the same play style or outfit on a player. The mission structure is more like demon's souls with the hub and stones, although there are many more levels. I found myself enjoying the nature of this mission play versus a totally connected and seamless world like the dark souls series had... perhaps the increased variety? It was faster? The plot and story could advance quicker? There is a story filled with interesting characters, yokai, and traditional japanese oddity - I suppose one could long for the Souls level of nightmare story telling here, but I was ready for a change myself and have enjoyed this japanese theme and history quite a bit. There is plenty of challenge and strategy, although I may not be a proper judge after so many hundreds of hours mastering the genre. Technically, the game is magical, just magical. I play on a Pro, 4k tv and preferred the 60fps setting. It's rock solid.
In conclusion, Nioh stands strong on its own, which is absolutely fantastic for the genre. It proves that FROMSOFTWARE isn't alone in the craft, and there is still room to grow. I find myself loving Nioh, above the rest of the feelings. I am challenged, rewarded, and impressed, but above all I simply love the game.
Nioh is a critical must purchase for every playstation collection.
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