Blackwind

So what will make Blackwind stand out against the vast array of hack and slash adventures we seem to be getting lately? Is it the sci-fi genre that sets a curious backdrop? Maybe it's the teenage angst storyline reminiscent of Saturday morning cartoons? Perhaps you just really like hack and slash games and need to fulfill your craving?

First impressions of Blackwind dictate that we have just another classic genre game going on here. But you know what they say, it's always worth trying a game once. It's a sci-fi hack and slash where you will use an arsenal of futuristic weaponry to repel legions of foes trying to take over your planet. Is there anything to spark interest here?

Run, Gun, Hack, Slash

We just have to start by saying how we've been stuck at a crossroads in the narrative here. Blackwind is about a teenager that gets stuck in a mobile battle suit and suddenly finds it his responsibility to repel an alien invasion.

Oh, yea, his father goes missing too, and you'll have to find him to ensure the safety of humanity. Yep, it's a pretty cheesy storyline. However, it still sparks a bit of nostalgia reminiscent of some of those 90s action cartoons.

However, in the hack and slash genre, the narrative hardly matters. It's all about the fun factor in obliterating your enemies in the most animated of fashions. So does Blackwind deliver on that count? Well, yes, it does. Quite phenomenally, actually. Despite some control stiffness here and there, the standard mechanics play well.

Players can enjoy blasting through levels with great running, gunning, hacking, and slashing animations with beautifully crafted alien environments and models. The intensity factor runs high, it's fun to kill, and there are enough challenges littered around for a bit of diversity in gameplay. You can't ask for much more, really.

Blackwind isn't the most thrilling game of the genre, but it's one that's done very well. All the boxes are ticked to create a solid few-hour experience that not many players would regret picking up. Even better that you can get your friends involved in the combat too.

Repel, Rinse, Repeat

Like all hack and slash games, Blackwind does have its limitations in replayability. Once it's all been done, you won't find much desire to return. However, that shouldn't detract from the idea that gameplay is a lot of fun. It certainly beats out many of the bland offerings we see out there, even if the narrative is a little corny.

Round-Up - Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Exciting combat that never loses its fun factor
• Well-designed skill tree to keep game progression interesting
• Multiplayer component that allows friends to enjoy blowing stuff up together

Cons:

• The narrative is a bit cringing
• The replayability factor is limited