Chapter 1: The Initial Launch and Reception

Do you recall Godfall? If not, you wouldn't be alone. This action RPG made its debut with the PS5 in 2020 but was soon overshadowed by the much-anticipated remake of Demon’s Souls. Although it shares a similar viewpoint and gameplay essence with From Software's iconic series, Godfall infuses a generous amount of Diablo-style loot mechanics. It aimed to showcase the PS5's capabilities with stunning graphics powered by Unreal Engine and made extensive use of the DualSense controller's haptic feedback.

Despite its ambitious launch, the game was met with a lukewarm reception, earning only a 61 on Metacritic. The rapid rise of Demon’s Souls quickly eclipsed it in the minds of ARPG enthusiasts. In a less competitive release window, Godfall’s impressive production quality might have propelled its score into the seventies, yet it struggled to stand out against such a celebrated title.

Chapter 2: The Developer's Continued Efforts

The developers, Counterplay Games and Gearbox Publishing, did not abandon Godfall. However, their management of the game over the years has been somewhat disorganized. Upon its PC release, it boasted enhanced ray-traced shadows and support for new AMD color technologies. Unfortunately, these features often hindered the already stable framerate, failing to significantly improve the visual experience compared to the PS5 version.

After a period of exclusivity, Godfall was adapted for PS4 about two years later. This version, while still functional, lacked the technical finesse of its next-gen counterparts. It suffered from longer loading times, absent haptic features, and inferior visual quality, suggesting a more opportunistic approach rather than a thoughtful adaptation.

Last year, the game finally made its way to Xbox consoles, where it retained the impressive visuals and performance of the PS5 edition while preserving some of the haptic effects thanks to Microsoft's Impulse Triggers.

Chapter 3: The Challenger Edition Controversy

In addition to its multiplatform release, Gearbox also introduced a controversial version dubbed the “Challenger Edition.” Initially free on PlayStation Plus and the Epic Store, it now retails for $15—a poor deal compared to the full game, which has dropped to $40. While this edition allows players to engage in co-op endgame content, it excludes the main storyline, making it seem like a missed opportunity for better content development and marketing strategies.

This situation is particularly frustrating, as Godfall is a compelling action RPG with graphics that remain impressive. Its combat system is both heavy and tactical, standing in contrast to the fast-paced gameplay of titles like Diablo IV, and it avoids the monetization pitfalls found in many modern games.

Your character embodies a spirit inhabiting various unlockable armors, each offering unique abilities—similar to Warframe, but with a more fantastical twist. The gameplay requires a balance of blocking, countering, and evading while executing weapon combos. Light and heavy attacks serve distinct purposes: light attacks build "damage debt," which can be redeemed with heavy strikes, while heavy attacks inflict greater damage on enemy stamina and can quickly stagger foes.

Chapter 4: Aesthetic Appeal and Lasting Impressions

Revisiting Godfall today reveals its stunning audiovisual presentation. Even when compared to the visually striking Immortals of Aveum, Godfall holds its own remarkably well. On the Xbox Series S, it often surpasses the newer title in detail and performance, showcasing the impressive fidelity of its graphics.

Had Godfall been introduced as a budget title or made a prominent appearance on services like PS Plus and Game Pass, it might have attracted a larger audience. Currently, with so many heavy-hitting titles like Diablo, Aveum, and Starfield competing for attention, Godfall demands a significant investment of time and focus.

However, if you find yourself seeking a captivating experience that bridges the gap between these titles and showcases remarkable visuals, Godfall is certainly worth exploring—even if you opt for its less impressive PS4 version. While the developers’ website has seen little activity since launch, I hope they are working on new projects that receive a more robust marketing push.

Godfall stands as a testament to the capabilities of contemporary gaming systems. Although it may not be groundbreaking in design, it remains an enjoyable experience. It’s perplexing that it hasn’t gained traction among fans of Warframe and Diablo, as it seems to be trapped in the shadows of larger, mainstream titles.

Chapter 5: Video Insights on Godfall

This video provides a retrospective review of Godfall, discussing its development and evolution over the past two years.

This review explores whether Godfall is worth purchasing in 2024, considering its current standing in the gaming landscape.