Review: Chains of Freedom for PlayStation 5

Chains of Freedom, crafted by Nordcurrent, brings a compelling turn-based tactical game to the PS5, drawing heavily from inspirations like XCOM and Mutant Year Zero. This review dives into the mechanics and charms of Chains of Freedom as it whisks players away to a fictional dystopian Eastern European state beset by the spread of the notorious EDEN.

The storyline thrusts you into the role of leading an elite military squad, operating under Sovereignty’s orders. Your mission: uncover the secrets lying beneath this chaotic world before it’s too late. The saga began years ago when an asteroid struck Earth, unleashing EDEN crystals that transformed humans into frenzied mutant monstrosities. But amidst the chaos, Sovereignty emerged, not only restoring semblance of order but also concocting a formula to prevent EDEN infections. However, dissent brews as some people reject immunity, choosing uprising and self-governance instead.

Jumping into the gameplay, you have the option to select from three difficulty levels: Story, Adventure, or Challenge. The Story mode eases you into the tale with less taxing combat scenarios, reduced enemy threat levels, and generous resource drops. In Adventure mode, the balance is the key – offering a rigorous yet manageable experience, with a three-turn grace period to revive fallen allies. Challenge mode, however, is strictly for those who savor nail-biting encounters. Enemies hit harder, have sharper accuracy, and a strict two-turn deadline to aid allies fallen in battle.

Navigating this engaging world means you’ll be venturing through areas, maneuvering characters with the controllers, and managing combat to your advantage. Sprint with R2, interact using X, and strategically switch between squad members with L1 and R1. Check your inventory with the Circle button, allowing you to equip weapons or essential items like bandages and rations to boost health and stamina in combat.

Combat is a tactical dance of moves and actions, consuming your Action Points (AP) each turn. With available AP, you make strategic decisions: repositioning, taking aim and firing with an added focus for accuracy, or unleashing special skills. These skills are pivotal; for instance, Fidel’s mighty Uppercut delivers a strong melee punch that leaves enemies momentarily stunned, or Corgan’s vigilant Overwatch guarding strategic areas against enemy advancement.

One cannot overshadow the importance of cover in skirmishes. Cleverly use cover to dodge enemy fire, though be wary of positions that enemies can easily flank. Timely reinforcements by foes can catch even well-prepared teams off-guard, adding a layer of tension to the battlefield.

Throughout Chains of Freedom, crafting tools and items become vital. Scavenge areas for crafting materials to create ammo, bandages, and more from your crafting interface. As your journey unfolds, discover EDEN Biocrystals that can empower your squad with bonuses or, sometimes, even disadvantages that require a strategic mind to manipulate successfully.

As you experience this thrill, expect to unlock trophies, starting with simple achievements and moving to more complex strategic feats. Completing objectives like using specific skills efficiently or finishing the game under particular conditions add another layer of satisfaction.

Chains of Freedom offers a gritty turn-based experience on the PS5, enriched by its dystopian narrative backdrop. Guiding your squad, deciphering the mysteries of EDEN, and engaging in challenging yet rewarding combat are all part of the thrilling journey. Available today on PlayStation 5, it’s time to test your mettle against the dark tide of mutant adversaries.

Please note, this review is derived from a PlayStation 5 copy provided by Nordcurrent.