Launched in early access, the unbridled potential of this modern take on the beloved “boomer shooter” genre is palpable from the moment you open the menu. It feels like an egregious error to have not included Prodeus here sooner. We don’t want to spoil too much, but if there was ever a game you needed to risk playing even though you knew nothing about it, it’s Pentiment. You play as an artist learning to become a master at a Benedictine monastic church, and while that might sound like an environment that is as dry as a dusty old book, it is artfully (pun intended) brought to vivacious life thanks to Obsidian’s narrative talents.

We’ve long known Obsidian to be masters at crafting immersive storylines and grounded dialogue, and they showcase their skill here by choosing one of the most unique time periods and settings in the history of gaming. To boil down Pentiment to its genre as a simple narrative adventure is a disservice to what Obsidian Entertainment has made here. Looking at gameplay pictures of Pentiment is not enough to fully grasp its charm, though it does showcase the artistic style you’ll find throughout the game. Dark Souls fans are sure to find themselves at home. In addition to several other unique mechanics, players can expect a sharp execution of the other Souls trappings: parries and ripostes, bombastic boss fights demanding sensitive timing, and a decrepit, moldering world begging for a savior. Players begin life in Mortal Shell as an overly tender slab of beef jerky, but inhabit several different bodies, or “shells,” that have unique play styles and capabilities over the course of their venture. One major facet that sets it apart is in the name - Shells. However, that isn’t to say it’s without its own distinct identity and nuances. It’s likely safe to dub Mortal Shell as the most Souls-like of the Soulslikes, as the majority of the core gameplay elements are going to be immediately and intimately familiar to those steeped in FromSoftware’s iconic catalogue.

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