FromSoftware’s 2019 ninja sim, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, made a significant impact on the gaming industry with its innovative combat mechanics and challenging gameplay. While fans eagerly await news of a potential sequel, the influence of Sekiro can be seen in upcoming RPGs from renowned developers BioWare and Obsidian Entertainment.
Borrowing from the Best
Several games have already drawn inspiration from Sekiro’s gameplay mechanics, such as Wo Long and Lies of P. Even the recent Resident Evil 4 Remake implemented a Sekiro-style parry system to enhance its combat experience. However, it’s particularly exciting to see established RPG developers like BioWare and Obsidian incorporating elements of Sekiro into their upcoming titles.
Sekiro introduced a new approach to combat with its emphasis on parrying over dodging, as well as the introduction of a stagger meter alongside player and enemy health bars. These unique features added depth and strategy to the gameplay, rewarding players for precise timing and aggression.
BioWare’s Veilguard
BioWare’s upcoming RPG, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, showcased an 11-minute combat demo at Gamescom that highlighted its Sekiro-inspired parry system. Players can perform parries to open up enemies for high-damage counterattacks, with the option to enhance attacks with elemental buffs after successful parries. This integration of action game mechanics with BioWare’s signature buildcrafting has sparked excitement among fans.
According to previews from WccfTech, Warriors in Veilguard will have a less forgiving parry window but can block attacks with a shield, while Rogues will have a more generous parry window but no shield. This strategic approach to combat allows players to tailor their playstyle to their preferences, adding depth to the gameplay experience.
Obsidian’s Avowed
Obsidian Entertainment’s upcoming RPG, Avowed, also embraces the stagger mechanic introduced in Sekiro. While the game’s 31-minute Gamescom demo did not showcase timed blocks, players can fill a meter with their attacks to weaken enemies and make them more susceptible to damage. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy to combat, encouraging players to time their attacks effectively to gain an advantage over their foes.
In addition to stagger mechanics, The Veilguard also features takedown moves that can be performed on staggered enemies, reminiscent of Dragon Age: Origins’ cinematic finishers. These dynamic combat elements enhance the overall gameplay experience, providing players with a sense of satisfaction and empowerment as they engage in intense battles.
Evolution of RPGs
BioWare and Obsidian’s decision to incorporate Sekiro’s combat mechanics into their upcoming RPGs signifies a shift in the genre towards more action-oriented gameplay. Traditionally known for their tactical RPGs, both studios are adapting to the changing landscape of gaming by infusing their games with elements of action games like Sekiro.
In the past, BioWare and Obsidian’s ARPGs were criticized for being sluggish and clumsy compared to other action games. However, by borrowing from the best action games in the industry, these developers are able to create more engaging and immersive gameplay experiences for their players.
The integration of Sekiro’s innovative combat mechanics into Dragon Age: The Veilguard and Avowed demonstrates a willingness to evolve and innovate within the RPG genre. By embracing the strengths of action games while retaining their storytelling prowess, BioWare and Obsidian are poised to deliver groundbreaking RPG experiences that appeal to both fans of the genre and newcomers alike.
In conclusion, the influence of Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice can be seen in the upcoming RPGs from BioWare and Obsidian Entertainment, with both developers incorporating elements of the game’s innovative combat mechanics into their titles. This evolution of the RPG genre towards more action-oriented gameplay showcases a commitment to creating immersive and engaging experiences for players. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Dragon Age: The Veilguard and Avowed, it’s clear that Sekiro’s influence is shaping the future of RPGs in exciting new ways.
