Droid Gamers: Hands On With The Black Beacon Global Beta

Black Beacon: A Hands-On Look at the Global Beta Test

For those who haven't heard, the action-RPG gacha game, Black Beacon, recently launched its global beta test. Unsure if it's worth your time? This hands-on review from the weekend beta will help you decide if Black Beacon is poised to become the next mobile gacha sensation.

Setting and Story

The game unfolds within the enigmatic Library of Babel, a setting drawing inspiration from Jorge Luis Borges' short story and the biblical Tower of Babel. This unique blend of judeo-christian mythology and the vast, potentially infinite library creates a compelling and intriguing backdrop, a refreshing change from typical folklore settings.

Players assume the role of The Seer, awakening in the Library with amnesia and a hefty destiny: becoming the new custodian of this mysterious place. The Seer's arrival triggers significant changes, including a monstrous emergence from the depths, time-travel elements reminiscent of Doctor Who, and a looming threat from a clockwork star.

Gameplay

Black Beacon offers a 3D free-roaming experience with adjustable camera perspectives (top-down or free camera) via simple pinch-to-zoom controls. Real-time combat involves chaining combos and unleashing special moves. A standout feature is the seamless character-switching mechanic, even mid-combo. This tag-team approach allows benched characters to regenerate stamina quickly, encouraging strategic team management without penalty.

Combat emphasizes timing and reading enemy cues, avoiding mindless button-mashing. While straightforward enemies are easily dispatched, tougher opponents demand attention and strategic maneuvering. The gacha system provides a diverse roster of characters, each with unique combat styles and moves, adding depth and preventing monotony. Several characters possess engaging personalities, fostering a desire for deeper interaction.

Playing the Beta

The global beta is accessible via Google Play (Android) and TestFlight (iOS, limited slots). The beta allows players to experience the first five chapters. Pre-registration through the official website rewards players with 10 Development Material Boxes, while Google Play pre-registration offers an exclusive costume for Zero.

While it's premature to definitively label Black Beacon a future gacha giant, the beta test certainly piques interest and warrants further investigation.