Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown Review
Embark on a time-defying journey through the storied lands of Persia as Ubisoft resurrects the iconic Prince of Persia series with "The Lost Crown." After an agonizing 13-year hiatus, the franchise returns with a daring departure, abandoning the familiar 3D landscapes in favour of a visually striking 2D side-scrolling adventure set in the intricate tapestry of 9th-century Persia. This seismic shift from tradition sets the stage for a unique and captivating gaming experience.
Emphasis on Innovation
Ubisoft's choice to embrace the 2D side-scrolling format isn't just a departure from tradition; it's a deliberate effort to elevate the Prince of Persia series. The visual allure showcases a commitment to innovation while honouring the franchise's roots. "The Lost Crown" rejuvenates a beloved series and sets a standard for how a classic can be reimagined for a new era, offering players a captivating blend of nostalgia and innovation.
The visual allure of "The Lost Crown" is evident from the first frame, blending realism with cartoon aesthetics to craft a mesmerizing world. Navigating this visually stunning environment is not for the faint-hearted, as deadly traps, spikes, and murderous pendulums demand nimble maneuvering and razor-sharp reflexes. The level design is exceptional, introducing players to accessible puzzle platforming at the onset, only to escalate into progressively intricate challenges as the game unfolds.
Character and Combat System
You play as Sargon, the charismatic and acrobatic member of The Immortals, who takes the reins as the protagonist, breathing fresh life into the series. The combat system emerges as the show's undisputed star, delivering an experience that is fast, sharp, and profoundly satisfying. The parry system, initially accessible, evolves into a gratifying dance with power-ups. At the same time, the ability to juggle enemies in the air introduces an element of joy seldom found in combat systems. A dedicated training area provides the perfect space for players to hone their skills and master intricate combos.
Amulets and Wak-Wak Trees
The Wak-Wak Trees scattered throughout the game serve as both save points and upgrade stations, providing healing and a chance to tweak amulet selections. With their unique special abilities, Amulets become an integral part of the gaming experience. The decision of which amulet to equip becomes a tactical choice, and players must carefully consider their options.
Beyond the core mechanics, Ubisoft introduces strategic elements into the gameplay. A nod to the series' iconic time-rewinding mechanic, Sargon gains the ability to teleport back to a past location. This addition injects a layer of strategy, offering players opportunities for surprise attacks or a chance to rectify missed jumps. The upgrade system further enriches the gameplay, allowing players to enhance health, attack power, and unlock additional amulet slots.
Musical Score and Additional Features
Gareth Coker, renowned for his work on the Ori series, lends his musical prowess to "The Lost Crown," enhancing the overall experience with a score that complements the fantastic combat and reaches its crescendo during intense boss battles. Ubisoft's thoughtful additions, such as a snapshot feature on the map, add a layer of convenience for players keen on exploration. Two gameplay modes, exploration and guided, cater to different player preferences, ensuring a flexible and enjoyable experience.
Customizable difficulty settings further amplify the game's replayability. Players can tweak variables such as enemy health, damage, environmental hazards, parry difficulty, and dodge windows, tailoring the experience to their liking. The result is a game that can be as accessible or challenging as the player desires.
Technical aspects also shine, with the game running seamlessly at 60 frames per second on PC. A commendable 24-28 hours of gameplay ensures players have a substantial and satisfying adventure. The voice acting is top-notch, contributing to an engaging narrative that doesn't shy away from moments of gravitas.
"The Lost Crown" may not be the 3D platformer most people wanted, but it is the revitalization the series needed. Ubisoft's bold choice to embrace the 2D side-scrolling format pays off, delivering a captivating adventure with solid combat and an unapologetic narrative. As Ubisoft kicks off the 2024 gaming season, I can say that "Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown" is an early entry for Game of The Year and deserves a 9/10. Don't let this gem slip under your radar – it's a triumph, offering a fresh and enthralling take on a beloved franchise.