If you haven't caught the latest buzz, the global beta test for the gacha action-RPG Black Beacon started just a few days ago. Not sure if it's worth your time to dive in? Don't worry—we've got you covered. We've spent the weekend exploring the beta to determine if Black Beacon has the potential to be the next big hit in mobile gacha games.
Setting and Story
Let's delve into the game's premise. Black Beacon is set in the grand halls of the Library of Babel, an intriguing reference to Jorge Luis Borges' short story about a world in the form of a vast library containing every possible combination of letters. While most of the books are nonsensical, the library also holds every known book, hidden somewhere within its depths.
The game's Library of Babel also draws inspiration from the biblical Tower of Babel, integrating Judeo-Christian mythology and biblical references into its setting. This unique blend of literary and religious elements sets Black Beacon apart from other games that often rely on different folklore. As a fan of series like Evangelion, we appreciate this creative departure.
In Black Beacon, you play as The Seer, a classic gacha protagonist who awakens in this mysterious place with no memory of how they arrived. You're quickly thrust into a significant role as the new custodian of the Library of Babel. Despite your arrival, the other characters seem unfazed, though they're not overly forthcoming with information.
Your presence, however, triggers a significant event—a monstrous entity begins to emerge from the library's depths. Coupled with time-travel elements reminiscent of Doctor Who's River Song and a looming clockwork star that threatens destruction, you'll need to act fast and adapt quickly.
Now, let's shift our focus to how Black Beacon plays.
Gameplay
Black Beacon offers a 3D free-roaming experience where you can switch between a top-down or free camera perspective with simple touchscreen controls. The real-time combat system encourages dynamic action, allowing you to chain combos and execute various moves. A standout feature is the ability to switch characters mid-fight, even mid-combo, without any penalty.
This tag team mechanic allows benched characters to regenerate stamina faster, adding strategic depth to battles. The combat demands attention to enemy cues and timing, making it engaging yet accessible. While you can easily handle weaker foes, stronger opponents will challenge you, demanding focus to avoid being knocked across the arena.
As a gacha game, Black Beacon boasts a diverse roster of characters, each with unique combat styles and moves that offer a fresh experience. Some characters are compelling enough to make you want to delve deeper into their stories.
Playing the Beta
If this sounds like your kind of game, you can participate in the global beta test. It's available on Google Play for Android users, while iOS users can join through TestFlight, though spots are limited. Simply follow the link to sign up, download the game, and play through the first five chapters.
Interested in more? Consider pre-registering for Black Beacon. By doing so through the official website, you can receive 10 Development Material Boxes, and on Google Play, you'll get an exclusive costume for Zero.
It's too early to tell if Black Beacon will become the next major gacha sensation, but we're excited to see how it develops.