In case you missed the latest gaming news, the gacha action-RPG *Black Beacon* has launched its global beta test just a few days ago. If you're on the fence about downloading it, don't worry—we've got you covered. We spent the weekend diving into the global beta to determine if *Black Beacon* has the potential to be the next big mobile gacha hit.
Setting And Story
Black Beacon is set in the vast and mysterious Library of Babel, an intriguing nod to Jorge Luis Borges' short story about an infinite library containing every conceivable combination of letters. The majority of its books are nonsensical, but hidden within are all known human writings. The game's setting also draws inspiration from the biblical Tower of Babel, integrating Judeo-Christian mythology—a refreshing departure from typical folklore themes.
In Black Beacon, you step into the shoes of The Seer, who awakens in this enigmatic place with no memory of how they arrived. You quickly find yourself saddled with the significant responsibility of being the Library's new custodian. Your presence seems to trigger unsettling changes, including a monster emerging from the depths, alongside time-travel elements reminiscent of Doctor Who's River Song, and a threatening clockwork star. It's a narrative that pulls you in from the start.
Gameplay
Black Beacon offers a 3D free-roaming experience where you can switch between top-down and free camera perspectives with simple touch controls. The real-time combat system is engaging, featuring hack-and-slash action with combo chaining and the ability to switch characters mid-fight or mid-combo. This tag team strategy enhances the gameplay by allowing benched characters to regenerate stamina faster, encouraging strategic swaps without any penalties.
The combat is both deep and accessible, requiring attention to enemy patterns rather than mindless button-mashing. While you can easily dispatch weaker foes, stronger enemies demand more focus, or they'll send you flying across the arena. As a gacha game, Black Beacon boasts a variety of characters, each bringing unique combat styles and moves, ensuring that every new addition feels significant and worth exploring.
Playing The Beta
If Black Beacon piques your interest, you can join the global beta test. Android users can download it from Google Play, while iOS users can participate through TestFlight, though slots are limited. Simply follow the provided links to sign up, download the game, and experience the first five chapters.
For those who enjoy the beta, consider pre-registering. Doing so via the official website grants you 10 Development Material Boxes, and on Google Play, you can secure an exclusive costume for Zero.
It's early days to predict if Black Beacon will become the next big thing in the gacha genre, but it certainly has our attention, and we're eager to see where it goes from here.
