Black Beacon Global Beta: A Hands-On Look at This Gacha Action-RPG

Black Beacon, the gacha action-RPG, recently launched its global beta test. Intrigued? Read on for our in-depth review after spending the weekend playing the beta.

Setting and Story

The game unfolds within the Library of Babel, a setting drawing inspiration from Jorge Luis Borges' short story and the biblical Tower of Babel. This unique blend of literary and religious references creates a compelling backdrop, reminiscent of works like Evangelion.

Players assume the role of The Seer, inexplicably awakening in the Library with a significant destiny: becoming its custodian. The Seer's arrival triggers significant changes, including a monstrous threat emerging from the depths, time-travel elements, and a looming celestial danger. The narrative is engaging, though details are gradually revealed.

Gameplay

Black Beacon offers a 3D free-roaming experience with adjustable camera perspectives (top-down or free camera). Real-time combat involves chaining combos and utilizing character-specific moves. A standout feature is the seamless character-switching mechanic, mid-combat or even mid-combo, allowing benched characters to recover stamina quickly. This strategic element adds depth without penalizing frequent swaps, resembling a Pokémon-style team management system.

Combat demands timing and awareness of enemy attack patterns, preventing mindless button-mashing. While straightforward enemies are easily dispatched, more powerful foes require careful observation and strategic responses. The diverse roster of characters, each with unique combat styles, ensures a consistently fresh experience. Several characters possess engaging personalities, encouraging player investment.

Beta Participation

The global beta is accessible via Google Play (Android) and TestFlight (iOS, limited spots). The beta allows access to the first five chapters. Pre-registration is encouraged, offering rewards like Development Material Boxes (official website) or an exclusive Zero costume (Google Play).

Conclusion

While it's premature to definitively label Black Beacon a future gacha giant, the beta showcases a promising blend of engaging narrative, strategic combat, and a compelling character roster. Its unique setting and innovative gameplay mechanics make it worth exploring.