First Descendant High Voltage

Caroline Mae

2 min read

·

06-01-2025

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First Descendant, the upcoming free-to-play looter shooter from Nexon, recently concluded its second closed beta. This gave players another chance to dive into its intense, fast-paced combat and explore its intriguing world. While the game is still under development, this beta offered a more refined experience than its predecessor, hinting at the exciting potential of First Descendant’s final release.

A Familiar Yet Fresh Experience

First Descendant blends familiar elements of the looter shooter genre – think Destiny 2 or Outriders – with a distinct Korean flair. The shooting mechanics feel responsive and satisfying, allowing for both aggressive close-quarters combat and strategic long-range engagements. Each character, or "Descendant," boasts a unique skillset and weapon proficiency, encouraging experimentation and strategic team composition.

The level design, while not groundbreaking, effectively utilizes varied environments to keep the gameplay engaging. From sprawling outdoor areas to claustrophobic indoor spaces, the maps offer a good variety in terms of both visual aesthetics and tactical opportunities. The current roster of Descendants, while not extensive, provides a solid foundation for diverse playstyles.

High-Voltage Combat and Challenging Encounters

The combat itself is where First Descendant truly shines. The fast-paced action, coupled with the ability to utilize both abilities and weaponry synergistically, creates a dynamic and exhilarating experience. Bosses present a significant challenge, requiring players to learn attack patterns and coordinate their abilities to overcome. This challenging but fair combat system is arguably First Descendant’s strongest asset.

Areas for Improvement

While the beta showcased considerable progress, some areas still require refinement. The loot system, while functional, could benefit from more clarity and potentially a more robust upgrade system. Similarly, the narrative elements, while present, felt somewhat underdeveloped in this beta test. These are, however, common issues with games still in development, and can be easily addressed before launch.

Overall: Promising Potential

Despite being in beta, First Descendant already delivers a thrilling and engaging looter shooter experience. Its responsive combat, diverse Descendants, and challenging encounters make it a promising title. While minor tweaks are still needed, especially to the loot system and narrative, the core gameplay loop is remarkably solid. If Nexon continues on this path, First Descendant has the potential to become a major player in the free-to-play market. The high-voltage action is undoubtedly worth keeping an eye on.