2025 has just kicked off, and gaming enthusiasts are already buzzing about a new contender in the Soulslike genre. Developed by Neople, the folks behind Dungeon Fighter Online, and published by Nexon, The First Berserker: Khazan is shaping up to be a thrilling action-RPG. Taking us back to the early days of the MMORPG’s universe, this game, initially teased as Project BBQ in 2018, made a splash with its trailer at The Game Awards 2023. Players on Steam, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S can look forward to diving into this adventure on March 27, 2025. The flashy cinematic and gameplay trailers have certainly piqued interest, leaving much for eager players to uncover.
The narrative of The First Berserker: Khazan centers on the legendary General Khazan of the Pell Los Empire. Wrongfully incriminated, tortured, and exiled from his homeland, Khazan seeks vengeance. Although fans of Dungeon Fighter Online will recognize him and his connection to the Berserker class, how much of this story aligns with the established canon remains a mystery. A fortuitous encounter with a Blade Phantom arms Khazan with three distinctive weapon classes and their skill trees, setting the stage for an epic revenge tale. As anticipation builds, players won’t have to wait long to experience this riveting Soulslike saga themselves.
In an unusual move for a Soulslike, a demo for The First Berserker is set to drop on January 16, 2025, allowing players to transfer their save data. This demo is expected to include the first significant mission up to the Yetuga boss. Past beta previews, which included the first three missions and a visit to The Crevice—a central hub in the game—hint at a robust seven-hour experience, suggesting a couple of solid hours for those trying out the demo.
The window between the demo’s release and the full launch is rather short—from mid-January to the end of March. Fortunately, there aren’t any major competing releases expected around this timeline. As we edge closer to the release date, keep an eye out for launch trailers and promotional content. Gamers eager to pre-order have physical and digital options, with pre-order bonuses including the Fallen Star armor set, a nod to Khazan’s initial story, though admittedly not the flashiest incentive out there.
For those opting for The First Berserker: Khazan’s Deluxe Edition, pre-order bonuses extend beyond the Fallen Star armor to include the Hero’s armor and weapon set, which bestows additional stats akin to Elden Ring’s Scarseals and Soreseal Talismans. A digital art book is also part of the package, viewable straight from the main menu. However, the main draw might be the 72-hour early access, letting eager players jump into the game on March 24. The Deluxe Edition comes at a premium, but for fans captivated by the demo, it’s worth considering.
Looking ahead, fans could see fascinating cross-promotional events within the Dungeon Fighter Universe, leveraging Neople’s dual involvement. The Dungeon Fighter MMO might host events centered on Khazan’s tale. While a crossover with games like DNF Duel seems unlikely given its existing Berserker character, future events in Dungeon & Fighter: Arad might capitalize on Khazan’s appeal, particularly in its gacha-focused design.
As for post-launch plans, The First Berserker seems primed for DLC following the traditional pattern of Soulslikes. Additional missions, weapon styles, areas, and challenges could be on the horizon, reminiscent of expansions seen in games like Nioh. Quality of life improvements could roll out throughout 2025. While it’s early days, enthusiasts can anticipate announcements at events like Summer Game Fest or The Game Awards, with potential releases in 2026. Even amidst other DLC contenders like Lies of P, The First Berserker: Khazan promises a vibrant year ahead, hoping to satisfy a wide audience.
