Early Players Reveal New Blades of Fire Details

Step into the shoes of Aran de Lir, a blacksmith and warrior whose life is forever altered by a profound personal tragedy. As Aran, you'll uncover the mystical Hammer of the Ancients, unlocking the legendary Forge of the Gods. Here, you'll craft extraordinary weapons, essential in your battle against Queen Nereia's relentless army. Prepare for an epic journey that spans approximately 60 to 70 hours.

Immerse yourself in a visually stunning fantasy world that blends beauty with brutality. Traverse enchanted forests teeming with magical creatures like trolls and elementals, or wander through vibrant, blooming fields. The game's visual style is inspired by the monumental aesthetics of Blizzard's creations, featuring characters with exaggerated proportions and robust, imposing architecture. The presence of stocky soldiers reminiscent of Gears of War's Locust adds a distinct flair to the already captivating environment.

Experience a groundbreaking weapon modification system and a combat mechanic that elevates the game beyond the typical action genre. Begin your forging journey by choosing a basic weapon template, which you can then customize by altering its size, shape, material, and other properties that directly impact its performance. The forging process culminates in an engaging mini-game, where the precision of your hammer strikes—controlling strength, length, and angle—determines the weapon's final quality and durability. For ease, players can quickly replicate previously crafted weapons. The game encourages a deep emotional connection to your arsenal, urging you to wield the same weapons throughout your adventure. Should you fall in battle, your weapon remains at the site of your demise, retrievable upon your return.

Versatility is key, as you can carry up to four weapon types and switch between them seamlessly during combat. Each weapon offers unique stances, enabling varied attacks such as slashes and thrusts. Unlike traditional games where weapons are found, in this world, you'll forge every blade yourself, with seven distinct types ranging from halberds to dual axes at your disposal.

Master the art of directional combat, where strategic attacks to the face, torso, left, or right can turn the tide of battle. Outsmart foes by targeting unguarded areas—for instance, if an enemy shields their face, aim for their body. Engage with formidable bosses like trolls, who possess a secondary health bar that only becomes vulnerable after you sever a limb. Whether it's disarming them by cutting off a club-wielding arm or temporarily blinding them by destroying their face, tactical prowess is essential. Remember, stamina, crucial for executing attacks and dodges, regenerates only when you hold the block button.

While reviewers have noted potential issues such as a lack of content, uneven difficulty spikes, and a forging system that may not be immediately intuitive, the game's unique setting and innovative combat mechanics shine brightly, making it a must-play for enthusiasts of the genre.

Mark your calendars for the launch of Blades of Fire on May 22, 2025, available on next-gen consoles (PS5, Xbox Series) and PC via the Epic Games Store.