Released initially on PC in early access back in 2022, V Rising has carved a niche for itself among survival game enthusiasts with its unique vampiric theme and engaging gameplay mechanics. Now, the game has made its way to the PlayStation 5, and it’s time to evaluate how it holds up in this new environment.
Gameplay and Theme
The World of Vardoran
V Rising takes place in Vardoran, a mystical land still reeling from a devastating vampire civil war and the oppressive rule of Dracula, the infamous vampire lord. Players awaken as a vampire with a simple yet profound goal: establish and expand their dominion while navigating the complexities of vampire politics and survival.
Gameplay Loop
The core gameplay revolves around the pursuit and defeat of V Bloods, powerful bosses scattered across the world. These encounters are not just combat challenges but are pivotal for progression, offering skill points and essential resources. This boss hunt is integral to the game’s plot, which, while minimalistic, provides enough context to make the battles feel meaningful.
Unique Features
Combat and Customization
V Rising distinguishes itself with a robust combat system that borrows elements from action-RPGs like Diablo. Players start with basic weaponry but soon gain access to a broader arsenal and magic spells across six categories: Blood, Chaos, Unholy, Illusion, Frost, and Storm. This variety allows for dynamic combat experiences and extensive customization in developing one’s vampire lord.
Building Mechanics
Unique to V Rising is its castle-building feature, which is not only intuitive but crucial for survival. Building an elaborate castle provides practical benefits like protection from the sunlight—a deadly hazard for vampires. This system enhances the game’s strategic depth, as players must balance aesthetics, functionality, and defense.
Blood Purity System
Another notable feature is the blood purity/type system, where vampires gain different buffs depending on whose blood they consume. This adds a layer of strategy to whom you choose to hunt, turning what could be a mundane task into a critical decision-making process.
Performance on PS5
Technical Aspects
The transition of V Rising from PC to PS5 is impressively smooth. The game runs well on the console, with only minor framerate issues and graphical glitches. The online performance is robust, providing a seamless multiplayer experience, which is crucial for a game with strong co-op elements.
Controller Support
However, the game faces some challenges with the PS5’s DualSense controller. Originally designed for keyboard and mouse, some actions feel clumsy and imprecise. This is particularly noticeable in spell casting and special attacks, where the lack of aim assist and a finicky radial menu can frustrate players. Despite these issues, the game is still playable, and most can adapt to these controls with time.
Conclusion
V Rising is an exemplary title in the survival genre, enriched with a gothic vampire theme that stands out. Its deep customization options, engaging combat, and innovative building mechanics make it a compelling choice for both fans of the genre and newcomers. While there are some pacing issues and the controller support could be improved, these do not significantly detract from the overall experience.
The game is a must-try for anyone interested in a fresh take on survival mechanics or those who have a penchant for Gothic horror and vampire lore. V Rising on PS5 not only meets but exceeds expectations, providing a rich, immersive experience that leverages the console’s capabilities to bring its dark, captivating world to life.
