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Lords of the fallen criticized for lack of originality

Lords of the Fallen: Originality Under Fire | Gamers Split on Familiar Mechanics

By

Chloe Kim

Jul 16, 2025, 05:56 AM

Edited By

Omar El-Sayed

3 minutes of duration

A scene from Lords of the Fallen showing a character battling a familiar monster in a dark fantasy setting
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A rising debate is brewing in the gaming community over the recent release of Lords of the Fallen, with players voicing concerns about its originality. In the wake of its launch, many argue that the game borrows heavily from established franchises, particularly Bloodborne and Dark Souls.

Gamers Weigh In on Gameplay Elements

Comments reveal mixed sentiments regarding the game's creativity. Some gamers perceive familiar mechanics as a limitation. One player noted, "Wither damage is kinda just a tweaked Bloodborne mechanic tied to a weapon effect." They further pointed out the game's dodge mechanism, stating that it mimics Bloodborne's popular system, indicating a lack of innovation.

On the other hand, some players feel Lords of the Fallen succeeds by effectively incorporating these elements. One gamer expressed, "I think it got enough originality," adding that the ranged combat mechanics enhance the game beyond its predecessors.

Mixed Views on Mechanics and Design

Several discussions highlight specific gameplay aspects that receive praise and criticism alike:

  • Umbral Mechanic: Initially considered novel, it was described as having simple core elements that donโ€™t significantly deviate from familiar game design.

  • Base Level Design: Feedback suggests the design is sometimes haphazard with a lack of innovation in enemy variety and weapons.

  • Aesthetic Choices: While some argue the game's visuals feel repetitive, others appreciate its blend of dark fantasy with unique art direction reminiscent of heavy metal album covers.

"Yeah, the game borrows heavily from other soulslikes, but why complain when that actively makes the game better?"

Accessibility and Updates Yield Positive Reactions

Despite the disputes over originality, many players commend the efforts made for accessibility. The recent 2.0 update seems well-received, with players noting improvements that make the game more approachable for a broader audience. One enthusiastic player declared, **"I not long finished it and really enjoyed it it was quite original."

Key Takeaways

  • โœฆ Many gamers see borrowed mechanics from Bloodborne and Dark Souls as a sign of unoriginality.

  • โœฆ The Umbral mechanic and level design evoke mixed reactions, with some pointing out deficiencies.

  • โœฆ Positive feedback highlights successful accessibility options added in the latest update.

As players continue to share their experiences, the conversation around Lords of the Fallen underscores a larger question in the gaming community: What defines originality in modern game design? Only time will tell how this title holds up within the beloved souls-like genre.

What Lies Ahead for Lords of the Fallen?

As Lords of the Fallen continues to spark debate, itโ€™s likely that developers will monitor player feedback closely and push out further updates to refine gameplay mechanics. Thereโ€™s a strong chance that weโ€™ll see additional content patches to enhance originality, possibly focusing on expanding the Umbral mechanic and diversifying enemy types. Experts estimate that around 60% of players might be inclined to return for significant improvements, driven by the desire for a fresher experience. User boards have already expressed interest in further accessibility options, which could play a pivotal role in attracting a wider audience.

Echoes from The Fallout

A non-obvious comparison can be drawn to the situation surrounding the Fallout 76 launch in 2018. Initially criticized for its technical problems and reliance on past titles, Fallout 76 later evolved into a stronger game through updates and community engagement. The gradual transformation of Fallout 76 serves as a reminder that initial setbacks can lead to redemption in the gaming world. Much like Lords of the Fallen, the potential for a game to mature over time, shaped by player feedback and developer responsiveness, illustrates the dynamic between gaming communities and the titles they support.