Black Beacon Global Beta: A Gacha Action-RPG Worth Checking Out?
Recent news announced the global beta launch of Black Beacon, a gacha action-RPG. Unsure if it's worth your time? This hands-on review explores if Black Beacon has the potential to become the next mobile gacha hit.
Setting and Story
Black Beacon unfolds within the Library of Babel, a setting inspired by Jorge Luis Borges' short story and the biblical Tower of Babel. This unique blend of literary and religious mythology creates an intriguing backdrop, a refreshing change from typical folklore-based settings.
Players assume the role of The Seer, awakening in the Library with a mysterious destiny: custodianship of this vast, enigmatic place. The Seer's arrival triggers significant, potentially negative, changes within the Library, introducing challenges like a monstrous entity emerging from the depths, time-travel anomalies, and a looming threat from a clockwork star.
Gameplay
Black Beacon offers a 3D free-roaming experience with adjustable camera perspectives (top-down or free camera). Real-time combat involves chaining combos and utilizing character-specific moves. A unique feature encourages mid-combat character switching, even mid-combo, allowing benched characters to regenerate stamina faster. This tag-team strategy adds depth without penalty, similar to a Pokémon-style system.
Combat demands strategic timing and awareness of enemy patterns, avoiding mindless button-mashing. While straightforward enemies are easily handled, tougher opponents require focus and skillful maneuvering. The diverse character roster, each with unique combat styles and moves, ensures each addition feels impactful and engaging. Several characters boast compelling interactions, encouraging player investment.
Beta Participation
The global beta test is accessible via Google Play (Android) and TestFlight (iOS, limited slots). The beta allows access to the first five chapters. Pre-registering through the official website grants 10 Development Material Boxes, while Google Play pre-registration offers an exclusive Zero costume.
While it's premature to definitively label Black Beacon a future gacha giant, its unique blend of compelling narrative, engaging gameplay, and intriguing characters makes it a promising contender.
