The First Descendant Review
The First Descendant has all the building blocks of a fantastic looter shooter, but they’re buried under a pile of monotonous quests, a terrible story, and an infuriating free-to-play model that has influenced its game design in the worst possible way. In its best moments, blasting aliens apart with both fireballs and a satisfying arsenal of weapons makes for a really great time – but at least an equal portion of the time was spent battling perplexing design decisions that tested the limits of patience.
Unabashedly Derivative
With so many live service games in the market, The First Descendant feels like it was focus group tested to please as many people as possible, resulting in mediocrity. The game borrows tired ideas from better games, covers them in a thick layer of free-to-play annoyances, and pads the whole experience with mind-numbingly repetitive missions.
The Good and the Bad
Running around with friends, shooting enemies, and unleashing supernatural abilities can be quite enjoyable. The RPG mechanics and loot systems are a dream for spreadsheet-loving nerds. However, the UI is complex, and the monetization model can be a turn-off for many players.
Battling Design Decisions
The campaign is filled with filler missions that feel tiresome and predictable. Boss battles, though engaging, have their own set of irritations, such as multiple layers of shielding to contend with. The story and dialogue are laughably bad, with nonsensical sci-fi jargon aplenty.
Unlockable Characters and Gameplay
Playable characters, each with distinct playstyles, are the highlight of The First Descendant. Switching between characters offers a different gaming experience. Unfortunately, unlocking characters beyond the first few is a painful grind, unless you’re willing to pay.
Loot Drops and Upgrades
The weapons, equipment, and upgrades in the game are fantastic. Watching numbers go up as you modify and upgrade your arsenal is satisfying. However, navigating through various systems and currencies can be overwhelming.
Despite its flaws, The First Descendant does have the potential to evolve into a more enjoyable experience with future updates. While the game may miss the mark at present, the core gameplay elements and engaging combat can still offer a good time for players.
For more live service game alternatives, check out our reviews of Zenist Zone Zero or Destiny 2: The Final Shape. Stick with IGN for all your gaming updates and reviews!
Remember, every game has its ups and downs, and The First Descendant is no exception. It’s always exciting to see how games can improve with updates and player feedback!
