A new action-RPG, A Whisper of Fall: Jinyiwei, is bringing a distinct martial arts spectacle to the soulslike genre, drawing inspiration from the wuxia films like the classic Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Set in the historical Ming Dynasty, the game places players in the role of a new agent of the Jinyiwei, an imperial guard tasked with combating both internal and external threats to the kingdom.
In a hands-on preview, A Whisper of Fall: Jinyiwei demonstrated a blend of fast-paced, martial arts-inspired combat and parkour-style action-platforming, reminiscent of titles such as Black Myth: Wukong and Assassin's Creed. The game focuses on a less fantastical, more action-thriller approach to its Chinese historical and mythological setting, emphasizing stylish combat and visually exciting set-piece encounters.
The gameplay centers on precise martial arts action, requiring players to read enemy movements to dispatch them efficiently. Players can utilize wall-running, execute aerial attacks, and chain combos between different weapons carried into battle. A combat mechanic involves charging internal energy based on performance, which can be used to restore health or unleash a powerful special attack to break enemy defenses. While the combat flow is satisfying, the preview noted that camera angles could be disruptive during challenging fights.
Boss encounters in the preview featured opponents with unique fighting styles rather than oversized monsters. These fights emphasized player composure and the ability to read opponent movements for carefully timed counterstrikes and parries, aiming for a sense of evenly matched duels. One notable boss was a rival mercenary using a long sword and homing darts, followed by the bandit leader who revealed a fiery, flamesword-wielding form.
The game also incorporates vertical exploration and stealth-action elements, similar to the Assassin's Creed series, allowing players to use wall-runs to gain advantageous positions. While the preview focused on more linear level design, it suggested multiple approaches to engaging enemies. The developers aim to build upon these fundamentals in later stages, which are described to include battles on crumbling battleships during storms and wall-running brawls above death-pits.
While the preview offered a promising glimpse into A Whisper of Fall: Jinyiwei's martial arts action-adventure, the reviewer expressed a desire for more open exploration of towns and communities to better understand the game's broader world. The current build, however, successfully captures the feeling of being an action hero with its stylish combat and dynamic environments.