The First Berserker: Khazan - A Relentless Rival in the Soulslike Arena

Since its release, The First Berserker: Khazan has stormed into the Soulslike genre, a brutal action RPG that draws from the Dungeon Fighter Online universe. Players step into the boots of Khazan, a betrayed general of the Pell Los Empire, framed for treason, tortured, and resurrected by the spectral Blade Phantom. This sets the stage for a vengeance-fueled odyssey through icy tundras and crumbling fortresses, blending familiar Soulslike patterns with fresh twists. But what does Khazan offer compared to its genre peers like Dark Souls, Elden Ring, or Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice? Let’s break it down.

What to expect from the game

Combat is Khazan’s beating heart, offering three distinct weapon styles—dual-wield sword and axe, a greatsword, and a spear, each with deep skill trees for customization. Unlike the methodical pace of Dark Souls or Elden Ring’s versatile builds, Khazan leans into aggressive, parry-heavy mechanics akin to Sekiro, rewarding precise timing with devastating counterattacks. Where Dark Souls emphasizes endurance and Elden Ring exploration, Khazan delivers a flashier, combo-driven flow, bridging Soulslike precision with hack-and-slash flair. Boss fights stand out, their towering designs and intricate patterns rivaling the genre’s best, though its linear, mission-based structure—warping from a hub called The Crevice—contrasts with the sprawling, interconnected worlds of FromSoftware’s titans.

Visually, The First Berserker: Khazan carves its own path with a cel-shaded art style, a vibrant departure from the muted palettes of Dark Souls or Bloodborne’s gothic gloom. This anime-inspired look, paired with a pounding soundtrack, amplifies its cinematic intensity, making every clash pop. Progression also feels distinct: earning Lacrima persists through death, and an Easy mode softens the genre’s notorious edge, concessions absent in Sekiro’s unforgiving design or Elden Ring’s optional flexibility via summons. It’s not as open-ended as Elden Ring, but this focus keeps the action relentless.

Compared to its peers, Khazan sacrifices environmental storytelling and exploration for a tighter, combat-driven experience. Its narrative, while serviceable, lacks the cryptic depth of Dark Souls or Bloodborne. Yet, for players craving a polished, aggressive Soulslike with visual flair and a slight nod to accessibility, Khazan shines. It’s not here to dethrone the kings but to offer a fierce, bloody alternative. We also offer the best prices for The First Berserker: Khazan with our comparator.