"Prequel to Soul Knight" is a pixel-style dark-like mobile game. Many people will compare it with the main sequel of "Soul Knight", which is actually unfair. The two are not on the same track at all. The current sequel is a pigeon dungeon, and the prequel is a dark gameplay developed through equipment grinding. It is more like a light version of "Torchlight" or the mobile version of "Diablo".
In terms of graphics, the prequel continues the cartoon pixel style of Soul Knight, but the details are richer and the light and shadow effects are also enhanced. Compared with the similar pixel RPG "Terriaria", the prequel's graphics are more cute, the special effects are more gorgeous, and it is highly visually recognizable on the mobile screen. Although it is not of top quality, it is better in that it has a unified style and is comfortable to watch.
In terms of gameplay, this is the core aspect. The career system in the prequel is quite in-depth. Each character has an independent skill tree and equipment matching logic, and equipment between different professions can be shared. Compared with the repetitive feeling of climbing towers layer by layer in "Cave of Greed 2", the map design of the prequel is richer, the level rhythm is more compact, and the diminishing return mechanism of layers can also stimulate the motivation to acquire equipment. The only thing I want to complain about is that the numerical growth curve is a bit steep in the early stage. If you don't use krypton gold, you need to be more cautious.
In terms of krypton gold, this must be emphasized. The main focus of the prequel is "free download + in-app purchase", and the overall commercialization level is much more restrained than similar games. Compared with many domestic mobile games, the payment points for the prequels are mainly focused on skins and battle passes, and there is no hard threshold such as locking character levels. Of course, there will still be some pressure to pay for enhanced equipment in the later stage, but as the living space of the Zero Krypton Party is relatively friendly, it can be regarded as a conscientious work.
Social and online experiences are a highlight. It supports a team of up to four people to brush the map, and is more stable than the online mode of "Lost Castle". The experience of defeating bosses, opening treasure chests, and allocating equipment together is quite enjoyable, and the social atmosphere is relaxed. It is worth mentioning that the game is well optimized on the current platform 5.0 system. No matter how the skills of four people on the same screen are displayed, there is no frame drop. This is much better than many similar competing products.
Although the music aspect is a bit off topic from the music section, I still have to say that the BGM style of the prequel is more lively and lively, the battle music has a strong rhythm, and it unexpectedly fits well with the pixel style graphics.
Overall rating: 8.0/10. The picture quality is 7.5, the gameplay is 8.5, the friendliness of krypton gold is 8.0, and the social network is 9.0. The advantages are that the gameplay depth is sufficient, the online experience is excellent, and the pressure for gold is low; the disadvantage is that the numerical curve is not smooth, and the pursuit of the ultimate build in the later stage requires a lot of time investment.
If you are a player who likes to buy dark equipment, but don't want to be too aggressive, this prequel is definitely worth a try. For those of you who come to the music area, it's good to just treat yourself to a game and listen to some BGM 😎