BLACKSHARD (PS5) - A Maze-like Musically Orchestrated Masterpiece

Developed by Redlock Studio and Enclave, and likewise published by Redlock Studio, BLACKSHARD brings to the player an explorative walking sim in it's purest and most artistically expressed form. Encompassing a palette of black and white, accented by hints of gold and amber, this megalithic maze-like journey with a cubist interior with statuesque presences offers the player 5 possible endings dependent upon choices made during the traversal of the enigmatic labyrinth. As you trek ever forward to the tune of melancholic music complimented by instrumentals, ambiance, and haunting whispers in a foreign tongue you'll find that you are not alone, and that there are guides promising you eternal outcomes. Which doors you enter, and which paths you take will determine the tyranny of fate that you face at the end.

Starting of in a field of dry bones with a starlit beacon ahead leading to your first door you will begin your seemingly timeless journey through an eternally expansive mega structure made of towering black and white platforms, talking masks, and melded statues that echo an alien presence unseen. All pointing you in various directions through lit doorways and paths that lead to named locations each with their own theme and purpose. It is here that haunting voices of the inhabitants will hint at your destiny, and lure you forth as the scenery continues to morph and change through monochromatic hues and kaleidoscopic displays of gold, amber, blood red, and even some purples. 

Progress in BLACKSHARD comes with save points in the guise of face inclusive columns that are activated with interaction. Ultimately though you will be focused on choosing paths illuminated by glaring light sources, and enter doors and corridors that lead deeper into the maze-like mega structure. It is an experience with minimal movement and interactive options at your beckon call, allowing you to not only take it all in stride, but to also enjoy the narrative being spun along the way. It's much like the guided tour of an artist's installation where the meaning is hinted at, but you are left to interpret that meaning after having seen the masterpiece in it's entirety. The multiple endings add to the intrigue making return journeys viable.

The Presentation ...

BLACKSHARD is an artistically ambient walking sim filled with the haunting hum of chords, and the playing of various orchestral instruments. It evokes an ethereal quality that fits the mystery of the mega structure, and aligns with it's seemingly eternal theme. The foreign whispers of unseen, but present NPCs heightens the mysterious vibe, and the constant change in musical mood sets the tone for the ever-changing landscapes. A true musical masterpiece in every sense of the meaning.

The Verdict ...

If you like art, and fancy something chill, relaxing, and intriguing BLACKSHARD is a game that can fill that void. It's a game with a vague plot open for interpretation, and encourages multiple playthroughs for all endings. It is a visual delight that calms the senses, and guides the gamer along the journey of discovery. Evoking an otherworldly experience that we don't often see in the gaming sphere. 

I recommend it for gamers who enjoy walking sims, art, and alien encounters. It is a blend of all three, and will mesmerize you with it's detail, music, and graphic design. Not a dull moment passes in this deep dive into another world.