The First Berserker: Khazan Is a Brutal, Beautiful Soulslike You Don’t Want to Miss

If Sekiro, Nioh, and Lies of P had a grimdark anime baby, it would look a lot like The First Berserker: Khazan. Developed by Neople and published by Nexon, this hardcore action-RPG arrives March 27, 2025, and it’s already carving out its place among the genre's elite.

Whether you're here for a challenge, the slick combat, or just curious about its place in the Dungeon Fighter Online (DNF) universe, let’s break down why Khazan is turning heads—and breaking spirits.

A Revenge Fueled Journey 800 Years Before DNF

You play as General Khazan, a former hero of the Pell Los Empire betrayed by those he once served. Left for dead, he’s revived and fused with the Blade Phantom - a ghostly entity that fuels both his rage and newfound powers. This isn’t just about survival; it’s about retribution.

Sure, the story plays into familiar revenge tropes, but the presentation is anything but standard. Lavish cutscenes, dark political undertones, and that eerie voice in your head (thanks, Blade Phantom) give the narrative a sinister edge that fans of darker fantasy will appreciate.

Combat That Cuts Deep - Literally and Figuratively

Let’s be clear: Khazan doesn’t hold your hand. It chews it off. Combat is the true star here. With just three core weapon types - greatsword, spear, and dual blades - you’d think it might get repetitive. But each weapon is so distinct, so satisfying, it’s like playing a different class entirely. Every swing matters. Perfect blocks, parries, burst attacks, stamina management - this is Soulslike combat turned up to 11.

What’s more, you can respec anytime. Want to ditch the spear and try the dual blades? Go for it. The game encourages experimentation, rewarding you with smoother combos and deadlier damage as you learn its systems.

Bosses That Will Break You (In a Good Way)

If you live for boss battles, Khazan delivers in spades. These encounters are memorization marathons, with long combo chains, massive AoEs, and no mercy. Some players are calling this “one of the hardest Soulslikes ever,” and for good reason.

Yet, despite the punishment, it never feels unfair. Bosses are designed with readable attack patterns and clear counter windows. It’s tough, but it’s clean - death becomes a lesson, not a setback.

The World: Grim, Gorgeous, and (Sometimes) Grey

Visually, The First Berserker: Khazan sets itself apart with anime-inspired, cell-shaded art. While the character design and cutscenes pop, the environments can occasionally feel washed out or foggy- especially in early-game zones. But deeper into the journey, the world opens up with more visually dynamic regions, from corrupted temples to haunted ruins.

Still, some players wish for more vibrant or memorable landmarks. Think “more personality, less mist.”

The Crevice: Your Grim (But Functional) Hub

Like the Firelink Shrine of this world, The Crevice is your base of operations. Here, you’ll craft gear, upgrade weapons, take side quests, and meet NPCs. While it’s more functional than fascinating, it serves its purpose - and evolves as you progress.

Bonus points for the inclusion of a summon mechanic (later in the game), and those adorable Jarlings hidden in pots that double as a collectible side-quest.

Final Verdict: A Top-Tier Soulslike That Demands Your Best

The First Berserker: Khazan might not reinvent the wheel, but it perfects the ride. It's punishing, stylish, and surprisingly refined for a first-time Soulslike from Nexon. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the genre or just itching for a new challenge, this one’s worth your time.

If you can endure its brutality, Khazan rewards you with a sense of mastery few games can match.

Will you rise as the First Berserker or fall to the blade?