The Soulslike genre, inspired by FromSoftware’s iconic titles, has carved out a niche that blends challenging gameplay with rich lore and atmospheric storytelling. While not every game in this genre hits the mark, they often offer a compelling mix of action and exploration that keeps players coming back. Recently, I had the opportunity to experience the demo for AI Limit, a new sci-fi Soulslike that has stirred interest at the Steam Next Fest. Although this title may not break new ground, it demonstrates how formulaic elements can still captivate fans looking for their next obsession.
At first glance, AI Limit seems to check all the boxes that fans of the genre have come to expect. From the initial character design—a soft-spoken female protagonist awakening in a dystopian landscape—to the familiar mechanics of “bonfire” checkpoints, the visuals and gameplay evoke a sense of nostalgia for seasoned players. It’s crucial to recognize that while AI Limit may not innovate within the genre, it successfully delivers an experience that feels both comfortable and engaging.
Players encounter textbook enemies adorning the classic red-and-gray palettes, embodying the typical aesthetic seen within the genre. The sense of familiarity, while slightly derivative, sets the stage for what fans have grown to appreciate—a space where the known breeds comfort even amidst the chaos of battle.
While the gameplay mechanics of AI Limit tread often-familiar terrain, there are intriguing variations that add depth. Notably, the loss mechanic where players only forfeit a portion of their experience upon death alleviates some of the punishing tension commonly associated with the genre. Moreover, AI Limit does away with the conventional stamina bar, allowing players more freedom in their engagement strategies. This approach invites experimentation, as players can dictate their approach and aggressiveness without the constraint of stamina management.
The emphasis on aggression is an exciting twist, inspired by the fast-paced combat of Bloodborne. Players generate a resource through successful strikes, which fuels their special abilities. This dynamic instills a dual incentive: players are encouraged to both attack relentlessly and play intelligently to safeguard their resource. This balance is crucial, as it rewards players for both strategic planning and bold execution.
While the combat mechanics show promise, the narrative and world-building aspects of AI Limit leave much to be desired. The demo provides glimpses of lore, yet players are left grappling with the breadth and depth of the storytelling. As it stands, the world feels somewhat generic—akin to stepping into a familiar, albeit visually stunning, painting without adequate context to understand its story. For a Soulslike game, rich lore and a compelling narrative can be just as essential as tight combat mechanics.
The initial lack of clarity regarding the story may challenge the game’s long-term engagement. Players often rely on a woven narrative to propel them through challenges, transforming gameplay into a meaningful journey rather than a series of encounters. AI Limit must work on this aspect to ensure it resonates beyond just being another Soulslike title.
Ultimately, AI Limit emerges as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Soulslike genre, even if it doesn’t push many boundaries. While offering a modicum of innovation in its mechanics, the game leans heavily into its predecessors’ established patterns. As a fan of this genre, I find myself intrigued by what AI Limit has to offer. Its gameplay systems propose a captivating blend of familiarity and innovation, while its lackluster narrative warrants further development for greater engagement.
As AI Limit inches toward its release on PS5 and PC, fans will be eager to see if it can transform the merits of its demo into a fully-fledged experience that balances compelling combat with a rich narrative universe. For players who crave their next adventure in a world steeped in challenge and lore, AI Limit signifies a promising journey, albeit one that may require a little polishing to shine.