Is Dying Light: The Beast Worth the Hype? Discover the Animal Attraction!

The Beast is an exciting new addition to the Dying Light series, blending zombie horror with open-world parkour in a fresh rural setting. Players take on the role of Kyle, who has acquired unique abilities after escaping captivity from the series' antagonist, the Baron. This game offers both thrilling gameplay and a chance to explore a beautiful yet dangerous landscape filled with undead foes.

Last updated: 18 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Beast is set in the new location of Castor Woods, featuring rural landscapes.
• Players can utilise vehicles for exploration and combat.
• New gameplay mechanics include Beast Mode, enhancing combat capabilities.
• Despite its fresh elements, some players may find the game feels outdated compared to its predecessor.
• Technical issues and bugs may affect the overall experience.

Introduction to The Beast

The Beast is a standalone title that expands on the Dying Light universe, which has gained a loyal following since its inception. Originally conceived as downloadable content for Dying Light 2, the game has evolved into a standalone experience that retains the core mechanics fans have come to love. Set in the picturesque yet perilous environment of Castor Woods, players will find themselves navigating through both familiar and new challenges.

What's New in The Beast?

One of the most significant changes in The Beast is the setting. Unlike the vibrant urban landscapes of previous games, Castor Woods presents a more subdued palette with vast open spaces, dense forests, and the haunting remnants of civilisation. This shift not only alters the aesthetic but also influences gameplay mechanics, particularly with the introduction of vehicles.

Gameplay Mechanics and Features

Players can now commandeer forestry service pick-up trucks, allowing for more extensive exploration of the open world. While these vehicles have their limitations, including handling issues and fuel consumption, they provide a new layer of strategy. The ability to crush zombies under the vehicle wheels adds a visceral element to combat, enabling players to tackle the undead in a different way.

Beast Mode: A New Power

In The Beast, Kyle gains new abilities powered by mutant DNA, allowing him to enter Beast Mode after landing hits on enemies. This temporary invulnerability enables players to unleash devastating attacks on zombies and bosses alike. Upgrading these abilities through combat with Chimeras—the game's new mutant enemies—adds depth to the gameplay, encouraging exploration and the pursuit of power.

Traversal and Parkour

Despite the changes in the environment, the series' trademark parkour mechanics remain intact. Players can still leap across rooftops and navigate the landscape with agility. The flatter terrain of Castor Woods presents unique traversal challenges, but the freedom of movement is still exhilarating. Players will need to balance their approach to combat and exploration, as the undead lurk around every corner.

The Aesthetic Shift

The change in scenery from urban to rural comes with a shift in visual style. Castor Woods boasts a more sun-bleached look, with terracotta rooftops and lush greenery set against snowy mountains. The game's day/night cycle enhances this atmosphere, providing varied experiences depending on the time, with darkness bringing heightened zombie threats.

Technical Issues and Player Experience

While The Beast offers an engaging experience, it is not without its flaws. Players have reported various bugs, from minor graphical glitches to more significant issues like freezing. These technical problems can detract from immersion, especially in a game that relies heavily on exploration and action. Additionally, some players may find the game's checkpoints frustrating, as they can lead to repetitive sequences when attempting to complete challenging missions.

Comparative Analysis: The Beast vs Dying Light 2

When comparing The Beast to Dying Light 2, it's essential to note the differences in map size and content density. While The Beast's map is smaller, it is packed with activities and engaging quests. However, as a full-priced game, expectations may lead to disappointment when compared to the expansive nature of its predecessor.

Gameplay Dynamics and Player Progression

The progression system in The Beast provides a satisfying sense of growth as players upgrade Kyle and his abilities. Engaging in side quests and hunting Chimeras for their DNA encourages exploration and strategy. The slow build-up of power adds anticipation for the final confrontation with the Baron, making each encounter significant.

Final Thoughts

Overall, The Beast offers a fresh take on the Dying Light formula, albeit with some growing pains. While the new setting and mechanics are compelling, the game feels rooted in a previous generation, lacking some of the innovations that players might expect. Nevertheless, its mix of action, exploration, and parkour will undoubtedly appeal to fans of the series.

As the Dying Light series continues to evolve, one wonders what the future holds. Will Techland embrace more significant changes to revitalise the franchise, or will they continue to build on the established formula? The potential for innovation remains, and players are eager to see where the journey goes from here. #DyingLight #TheBeast #GamingNews

FAQs

What platforms is The Beast available on?

The Beast is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.

Is The Beast a standalone game or DLC?

The Beast is considered a standalone game, although it originated as downloadable content for Dying Light 2.

What is Beast Mode in The Beast?

Beast Mode is a new mechanic allowing players to become temporarily invulnerable and unleash powerful attacks on enemies after charging an energy bar by landing hits.

Are there any significant bugs reported in The Beast?

Yes, players have reported various bugs, including freezing issues, minor graphical glitches, and frustrating checkpoint placements.

How does the map size of The Beast compare to Dying Light 2?

The map in The Beast is smaller than that of Dying Light 2, but it is densely packed with activities and quests, offering a rich experience nonetheless.