Summary
- Release Year: 2016
- Genres: Fighting, Shooter
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Psyonix
- Publishers: Square Enix
Nosgoth: A Tragic Tale of Unfulfilled Potential
Nosgoth, the free-to-play multiplayer action game developed by Psyonix and published by Square Enix, was a spin-off from the beloved Legacy of Kain series. Set in the same dark and gothic universe, Nosgoth offered a unique take on the franchise’s lore, pitting vampires against humans in a battle for survival.
Development and Release
Nosgoth was first announced in June 2013, following internet leaks about a new Legacy of Kain game in development. It was initially intended to be part of a single-player project called Legacy of Kain: Dead Sun, but was reconceptualized and continued development as a standalone title following Dead Sun’s cancellation.
When officially revealed in September 2013, Nosgoth attracted mixed reactions from fans. Some were excited about the prospect of a new Legacy of Kain game, while others were disappointed by its departure from the traditional single-player and story-driven formula.
Despite the mixed reception, Nosgoth entered closed alpha in late 2013, and its servers were opened up to registered players. The game’s open beta began in January 2015 and ended in May 2016.
Gameplay
Nosgoth employed a player versus player system in which each match consisted of two rounds. Teams were composed of characters assigned to one of two races: vampires, designed around hack and slash combat; and humans, whose gameplay was styled after third-person shooters.
Between rounds, teams would switch to control the opposing race, and the team which accumulated the most points by fighting their counterparts won the match.
Vampires were agile and deadly in close combat, with abilities that allowed them to teleport, turn invisible, and drain the blood of their enemies. Humans, on the other hand, were more versatile and could use a variety of weapons and gadgets to take down their vampire foes.
Reception and Legacy
Nosgoth received mixed reviews upon its release. Some praised its unique gameplay and dark atmosphere, while others criticized its repetitive gameplay and lack of content. The game also suffered from technical issues and a small player base.
Despite its flaws, Nosgoth had a passionate community of fans who enjoyed its unique blend of action and strategy. However, the game’s fate was sealed when Square Enix Europe announced on April 8, 2016, that Nosgoth’s servers would shut down on May 31, 2016. Nosgoth’s official forums also shut down on June 14, 2016.
Unfulfilled Potential
Nosgoth was a game with a lot of potential, but it was ultimately let down by its repetitive gameplay and lack of content. The game’s closure was a disappointment to fans, who felt that it had the potential to be a truly great multiplayer experience.
Despite its short lifespan, Nosgoth remains a testament to the enduring popularity of the Legacy of Kain series. The game’s unique gameplay and dark atmosphere continue to inspire fans, and it is hoped that one day, a new Legacy of Kain game will be released that can finally fulfill the promise of Nosgoth.
Additional Information
- Developer: Psyonix
- Publisher: Square Enix
- Platforms: Microsoft Windows
- Release Date: January 15, 2015 (open beta)
- Closure Date: May 31, 2016
- Genre: Multiplayer action
- Setting: Legacy of Kain universe
- Gameplay: Player versus player, two rounds, vampires vs humans
- Reception: Mixed
- Legacy: A unique and fun experience that sadly met an untimely demise
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
