Fear the old blood, Laurence. By the gods, fear it.

User Rating: 10 | Bloodborne PS4

Bloodborne is one of those games you'll come back to ten years from now and still have an absolute blast. It is the crowning achievement of FromSoftware, and is a worthy contender of game of the generation; perhaps even ever, period. Bloodborne is simply that good, that engrossing and that much of a spectacle in the aRPG genre, fusing beautifully gothic scenery and strong influences from H.P Lovecraft, which become more and more prevalent during the second half of the game.

Bloodborne is not for the fearful, more so for those who embrace said fear, not only due to the immense difficulty, but a legitimate sense of dread. Bloodborne, an aRPG game, possesses stronger elements of horror than most straightforward horror games on the market. On one particular occasion, I honestly felt like my heart found its way into my throat. The lingering sense of dread is augmented by the phenomenal soundtrack, which is worth multiple listens on its own merit.

It is arduous to deny a games greatness when it still feels absolutely flawless without uncovering the story. NPC interactions, item descriptions and simply paying enough attention regarding what is happening around you will reveal a story which is grand, deep and heart-wrenching. Every single area in the game is worth revisiting to witness the changes occurring amongst characters who's side-missions you've embarked on, changes in the environment, and branching stories which could severely effect how NPC's that you've emotionally attached yourself to could alter based on your own decisions. All of this could be missed by an ignorant player. All I can say is, when in Central Yharnam, or any other area of the game for that matter, look out for doors with orange lanterns outside of them. Remember what some of them say, and come back later, when you feel like vague objectives have been completed.

If you are a newcomer to FromSoftware, I'd recommend you to not do very much besides read this review. Play Bloodborne somewhat blind. Look out for messengers in the hub world and the area in which you initially spawn to learn the controls, and prepare to embark on a certified essential.