4/5 ★ – blskier's review of Astral Chain.

An imperfect game with outstanding combat, a good enough story, and probably a little too much content. Beginning of the game is bombastic, explosive, overstimulating fun. Then a long (necessary) training that once you get through really unlocks a unique and satisfying combat system, focused around controlling two characters at once. Once you get the hang of it, it’s tough to stop playing. Story is solid as well. There’s a few twist and turns that will keep you hooked during the middle section, but it does all become a bit too predictable and honestly nonsensical by the end. Enough to keep me interested so not really a gripe as I didn’t need a super amazing story in a game focused on combat. Some gripes - there is a ton of random (mostly optional) crap to do. I did a decent amount because my brain requires me to do it, but trailing, stealth, and following your legion who tracks scents is just not especially fun. The games ending also feels like it goes on forever, and I was screaming my head off at the final boss for being pretty cheap with multiple moves that kill you in one go. Once I figured out what it wanted me to do it wasn’t terrible, but first few gos were overwhelming. Overall a super unique and fun package hidden away on the switch. If you’re lookin for Bayonetta like style with a combat style you’ve never played before, would definitely recommend! Just don’t waste too much time on the side nonsense.