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Crystal Dynamics just announced the first new Legacy of Kain game in 23 years (and another slick-looking Soul Reaver remaster, too) - Eurogamer

Lau Chi Fung

— 3 min read

The Legacy of Kain Franchise: A Cult Classic's Enduring Legacy

The Legacy of Kain franchise is a beloved and iconic series in the world of gaming. With its unique blend of dark fantasy, action-adventure gameplay, and complex characters, it has captivated audiences for decades. For fans of the series, particularly those who identify as "Millennial goths with an English degree," the franchise holds a special place in their hearts.

A Brief History of the Franchise

The Legacy of Kain series was created by Crispin Boyer and first released in 1999 for PC. The game's success spawned two sequels, Soul Reaver (2001) and Soul Reaver: Legacy of Kain (2001), as well as several spin-offs, novels, and comics. Throughout its history, the franchise has been marked by a unique blend of dark fantasy and science fiction elements.

The Game's Story

At its core, the Legacy of Kain series revolves around the eternal conflict between good and evil. The player takes on the role of either Kain or Raziel, two immortal characters with complex pasts and motivations. The games' story is set in a fictional world, where humans have discovered a way to harness the power of souls. This discovery has led to a catastrophic war between humans and vampires, known as the "Soul Reaver War."

Gameplay Mechanics

The Legacy of Kain series features action-adventure gameplay, with an emphasis on exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Players must navigate through vast environments, solving puzzles and fighting enemies to progress through the story. The games also feature a unique "soul-stealing" mechanic, which allows players to absorb the souls of defeated enemies.

Characters and Development

One of the defining features of the Legacy of Kain series is its complex characters. Both Kain and Raziel are multi-dimensional characters with rich backstories and motivations. The games' story explores themes of morality, redemption, and the nature of good and evil.

Throughout the series, the player's perception of the characters changes as new information is revealed. This creates a sense of depth and complexity, making it difficult for players to categorize the characters as simply "good" or "evil."

Themes and Symbolism

The Legacy of Kain series explores several themes throughout its games. One of the most prominent is the nature of good and evil. The games' story presents a nuanced view of morality, suggesting that both good and evil are complex and multifaceted.

Another theme present in the series is the concept of identity and self-discovery. Both Kain and Raziel struggle with their own identities, as they navigate through their immortal lives.

Impact on the Gaming Industry

The Legacy of Kain franchise has had a significant impact on the gaming industry. Its success spawned several other action-adventure games, including the "Dark Souls" series.

The series' unique blend of dark fantasy and science fiction elements has also influenced several other franchises, including the "Castlevania" series.

Legacy and Revival

In 2019, it was announced that a new Legacy of Kain game was in development. The game, titled "Legacy of Kain: Rebirth," is being developed by Liquid Entertainment and published by THQ Nordic.

The game promises to be a faithful sequel to the original games, with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics. Fans of the series are eagerly anticipating its release, as it marks the return of one of the most beloved cult franchises in gaming.

Conclusion

The Legacy of Kain franchise is a beloved and iconic series in the world of gaming. With its unique blend of dark fantasy, action-adventure gameplay, and complex characters, it has captivated audiences for decades. As we look to the future, fans of the series are eagerly awaiting the return of this cult classic.

Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the franchise, the Legacy of Kain series is a must-play experience that will leave you hooked from start to finish. So, if you haven't already, join the ranks of "Millennial goths with an English degree" and immerse yourself in the world of Legacy of Kain.

Fun Facts

  • The original game, Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain, was originally going to be a sequel to the "Castlevania" series.
  • Crispin Boyer, the creator of the series, is also known for his work on other games, including the "Syndicate" series.

References

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