The First Berserker: Khazan is a dark fantasy action game released on March 27 that is part of the Dungeon & Fighter series. The game’s story revolves around Khazan, a character within the larger Dungeon & Fighter universe, specifically focusing on his role in the lore of the iconic Demon Slayer class. The developers aimed to delve deeper into Khazan’s story and expand the universe through this new entry in the souls-like genre. Ben Starr, the voice of Khazan, was drawn to the project due to its cool concept, deep story, and engaging dynamic with Blade Phantom, another character in the game.
Players do not need prior knowledge of Dungeon & Fighter to enjoy The First Berserker: Khazan as the game was designed to be accessible to newcomers. However, fans of the original IP may appreciate Easter eggs and references scattered throughout the game. The transition from beat ’em ups and fighting games in the Dungeon & Fighter series to a souls-like action game like Khazan was a deliberate choice by the developers to provide a more immersive and contemporary gaming experience while retaining the core elements of the franchise.
The issue of difficulty settings in hardcore action games like Khazan was addressed through the inclusion of an easy mode option and the lacrima system, allowing players to progress through repetition against challenging bosses. The developers wanted to strike a balance between offering a sense of achievement for overcoming obstacles and making the game accessible to a wider audience. The team actively engaged with players and sought feedback to enhance the gaming experience, demonstrating a commitment to player satisfaction and inclusivity.
The conversation extended to the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the gaming industry, with both Myeongjin Yun and Ben Starr acknowledging its potential benefits and ethical considerations. While AI can enhance accessibility and creativity in game development, there are concerns about copyright infringement and ethical boundaries that need to be carefully navigated. The use of AI in voice acting and other aspects of game development requires thoughtful regulation to ensure responsible and beneficial implementation.
When not working on Khazan, Myeongjin Yun enjoys playing and researching games, while Ben Starr recently purchased a Steam Deck and has been exploring titles like Vampire Survivors and Half-Life 2. He also praised games like The Curse of the Golden Idol series for their storytelling diversity and unique approaches to narrative delivery. The gaming industry continues to evolve, offering a wide range of experiences for players to enjoy, from challenging action RPGs to immersive narrative-driven adventures.
