Nordcurrent’s latest entry, Chains of Freedom, invites players into a gripping turn-based strategy world on PS5, drawing inspiration from classics like XCOM and Mutant Year Zero. In our in-depth review, we’re diving into what makes this game a must-play.
Set within a bleak, dystopian Eastern European landscape, Chains of Freedom challenges you to lead a top-tier military squad under the Sovereignty’s command. Unravel the compelling mystery before chaos ensues. The story kicks off with an asteroid crashing onto Earth, introducing EDEN crystals. These aren’t just any crystals; they infect people, morphing them into monstrous mutants hungry for carnage.
Thankfully, the Sovereignty emerged as a beacon of hope, restoring some semblance of order while concocting an antidote against the EDEN infection. Yet, rebellion brews as some citizens reject this control, preferring to follow their own path. Curious how Chains of Freedom measures up to previous titles like Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden and the more recent Miasma Chronicles? Let’s find out.
You’ll have three difficulty levels to choose from: Story, Adventure, and Challenge. Opt for the Story mode if you’re in it mainly for the plot, enjoying a milder combat experience. Here, foes pose less threat, resources aren’t scarce, and you’ll have unlimited time to revive allies. Adventure offers a balanced experience, pushing you just enough without overwhelming you. In this mode, you get three turns to revive fallen comrades. Now, for those in pursuit of a real test, Challenge mode ups the ante. Here, enemies are sharper and hit harder, demanding prompt revivals within just two turns and featuring stringent battle turn limits.
As you traverse each location, guide your characters using the left stick, with the right stick providing a full camera view to scout your surroundings. Sprint using R2, engage with objects or characters using the X button, and switch between team members with L1 and R1. Your inventory is a Circle button press away, where you can equip weapons, bandages to stop bleeding, or food rations for health regeneration.
When strategy dictates, sometimes splitting your squad is key. Press Triangle to separate them, and regroup with the same button. Ready to jump into combat? Initiate your attack with Square, seizing the element of surprise.
In battle, each character has their set of moves, selected with the D-Pad. Weapons can be swapped up or down on the D-Pad. Your moves and actions rely on Action Points (AP), which renew every turn. Make smart use of them; from moving to executing special skills, AP is your lifeline.
Every character boasts unique abilities. Fidel’s Uppercut, for instance, is a melee powerhouse, while Corgan’s Overwatch alerts him to cover a chosen area, attacking intruding enemies. Use cover wisely to boost evasion, but be wary of flanked positions, and mind enemy reinforcements—they might not be far behind.
Exploration rewards you with resources for crafting essential items like ammunition or bandages. As Chains of Freedom unfolds, you’ll uncover more crafting options. Harness these to stay prepared and ahead in battles.
One major game-changer is the EDEN Biocrystals. Equipped to squad members, they bestow passive and active abilities. However, consider potential drawbacks. Some crystals enhance abilities significantly, like the Graze passive skill from Maiming Thorn, ensuring even missed shots inflict damage. Choices matter as they often come with trade-offs.
Completing Chains of Freedom on PS5 doesn’t just offer an engaging tactical experience—it rewards players with trophies. From rescuing a downed pilot or using bare fists in combat to successfully employing each character’s special abilities, the game offers numerous accolades to chase. There’s even a coveted Platinum trophy for ultimate completion.
Chains of Freedom is a strategic delight set in a dystopian world changed by EDEN’s presence. Leading an elite squad under the Sovereignty’s command, your mission is to resolve a gripping mystery before chaos prevails. With its debut on PlayStation 5, Chains of Freedom is ready to test your tactical prowess and decision-making.
This review of Chains of Freedom was made possible with a PS5 copy provided by Nordcurrent. If you’re keen on a solid tactical game with a sci-fi flair, this might just be your next adventure.
