In 2023, Lies of P emerged as a delightful surprise in the gaming world. Initially dismissed by many as a mere imitation of Bloodborne, thanks to its eerie, darkly Victorian setting and moody combat akin to a soulslike, it intrigued those who were willing to give it a chance. To everyone’s amazement, Lies of P proved to be one of the finest soulslike experiences crafted outside the studios of FromSoftware.
Neowiz and Round8 struck gold with Lies of P through clever and original game mechanics. The game introduced elements like weapon crafting, Fable Arts, and Legion Arms, which together create a distinctive combat experience that confidently stands alone. Yet, it’s impossible not to see the influence of FromSoftware’s storied titles. While Lies of P draws inspiration in areas such as level design, narrative style, and quest mechanics, it remains an exciting example of how to pay homage while marching to its own beat. As this franchise develops, future iterations might just surprise even the most seasoned fans.
The buzz about Lies of P is expected to carry on into 2025, hinting at significant developments ahead. An intriguing indication of where the series is headed comes from a few job postings unearthed by fans on Neowiz’s website for positions like Content Planner and Balance Planner. These roles hint at something exciting: one who’s experienced in crafting multiplayer elements and another adept at designing PvP systems. An intriguing note is that these job descriptions mention a project called “P’s False Next,” likely a translation glitch, as it’s listed under the Lies of P category.
The immediate assumption—and perhaps a logical one—is that the sequel may dive into multiplayer features, especially given the PvP emphasis suggested by the job ads. While it’s wise to wait for official word from Neowiz or Round8 before jumping to conclusions, this direction seems to be a nod towards the game’s FromSoftware roots.
When examining how multiplayer could unfold in Lies of P’s future, it’s interesting to consider FromSoftware’s history. The introduction of multiplayer in Demon’s Souls in 2009 brought to life innovative concepts like leaving asynchronous messages and the thrilling summoning/invading elements. These features set a precedent for what has become a staple in soulslikes, fostering both cooperation and competition when tackling mighty foes.
Lies of P 2 could incorporate a similar PvP element, perhaps akin to the invasion mechanisms players cherish from games like Demon’s Souls or Elden Ring’s Colosseum. In the original game, a summonable Specter offers a glimpse at what could evolve into cooperative play, reminiscent of ally summoning in FromSoftware titles. This mechanic may hint at plans that were sidelined but can now take center stage, bringing the spirit of collaboration or rivalry into the sequel’s gameplay.
Beyond the mechanics, the original Lies of P is a testament to creative storytelling. Set during the Belle Époque era, it reimagines the tale of Pinocchio, unraveling a narrative thick with deceit, danger, and discovery. Players guide a puppet crafted by Geppetto through the haunted alleys of Krat, once lively but now steeped in madness and malice. As the story twists, players must decide whether to solve dilemmas with the truth or wield lies—a choice that forms the core of this captivating journey to self-discovery.
Released on September 19, 2023, and running on Unreal Engine 4, Lies of P has cemented itself as a standout soulslike, acclaimed for its innovation and gripping narrative. It’s rated M for mature audiences, owing to its gritty, bloody battles, which offer around 20 hours of intense gameplay.
As players eagerly anticipate what’s next, lies and truths alike wait to be unveiled in this enthralling world.
