The tale of the revival of the Prince of Persia series has sparked controversy among the gaming community. Has the new installment lived up to fans’ expectations? While it may not appeal to the most hardcore enthusiasts of the series, it certainly provides a great experience for those who enjoy good entertainment and can overlook a few narrative doubts.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is an adventure action game in the form of a 2.5D metroidvania. It’s hard to determine definitively whether it is a full-fledged metroidvania or just a platformer with elements of the genre, but it certainly possesses characteristic features of metroidvanias. The game offers a world in the form of one large map that we explore, unlocking new areas by acquiring abilities and items. However, there are no revolutionary gameplay mechanics – it is a production that relies on well-known patterns, albeit with minor innovations.
We are transported to ancient Persia, where we embody Sargon, one of the Immortals – elite warriors of the royal guard. Our task is to find the kidnapped Prince of Persia, Ghassan. Although the prince himself is not a playable character or a significant element of the plot, he serves as a crucial point that drives the game’s action.
The story in Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is secondary. The game’s greatest asset is its impressive world. Inspired by Persian culture, the game world captivates with its detail and spectacle. While exploring new areas, we encounter various puzzles and challenges.
I was pleasantly surprised by the mechanics of photographing the environment, which allows us to take pictures and place them on the map. It’s a great way to remember interesting places and revisit them in the future.
Combat in the game is not perfect, especially at the beginning when not all mechanics are explained. However, this is not a significant obstacle for most players. The difficulty level can be adjusted to fully enjoy the gameplay experience.
Despite some controversies, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a solid production that provides hours of fun. While it may not meet the expectations of series fans, it will undoubtedly attract those who appreciate well-executed adventure action games.