Very Positive(97%)
high replay value
strong soundtrack
complex themes
rewarding gameplay
narrative depth
art style
freedom of choice
moral complexity
censored content
requires patch
frustrating limitations
disturbing themes
unplayable without patch
The general sentiment of the reviews is that Black Souls offers a deeply engaging and rewarding experience for those interested in dark fantasy RPGs, leveraging strong narrative and rich lore. However, players are frustrated with the heavily censored version available on Steam and emphasize that engagement with mature themes and downloading a patch is necessary to fully enjoy the game. The game is particularly recommended for those who appreciate narrative depth and can navigate its morally complex elements.
Positive Points
The game is a unique blend of a classic JRPG and a Souls-like experience, providing a challenging yet fair gameplay that many players find rewarding.It offers a high replay value due to multiple viable builds and a variety of endings, including what feels like a "true" ending.The narrative and story are praised for their depth, with game design and mechanics that explore complex themes.The music and soundtrack are notably strong for an RPGMaker title, adding to the immersive experience.Patching the game restores cut content and offers the full experience as intended by the developers.Negative Points
The game on its own is heavily censored on Steam, making it almost unplayable without downloading a patch from an outside source.Some players express frustration at the lack of content in the unpatched version, stating it's akin to a demo rather than a full game.The game contains controversial content, including themes of assault, which may be distressing to some players and is a topic of criticism.The patching process can be cumbersome, and the need for it can be a deterrent for some potential players.The game's combat mechanics and some aspects of its storyline are said to be simple and less engaging without the context of the sequel.Mixed Points
The art style and graphics are described as rough but atmospheric, fitting for the game's dark thematic elements, yet this style is not universally appreciated.The game requires engagement with moral complexity, which some players find intriguing, while others may find it unsettling.Some players appreciate the freedom of choice, allowing for morally complex decisions, but this same aspect can be controversial due to its potential content.Common Themes
The necessity of patching to unlock the full experience is a widely discussed topic across reviews.Players emphasize the importance of experiencing the game with all its content available, including NSFW scenes, to fully appreciate its narrative depth.References to the sequel, Black Souls 2, hint at improvements and continued storytelling that enhance the original's appeal.There is a recurring mention of beloved characters like Alice and Leaf, demonstrating attachment to the narrative and character development.Updated 8/17/2025, 12:01:05 AM UTC
