End the terror of the Others

SCARLET NEXUS is a role-playing video game wherein you do battle using the power of your mind. Developed by BANDAI NAMCO, this 3D sci-fi action-adventure game features engaging third-person POV combat that mixes fast-paced action and RPG mechanics in a semi-open-world environment. 

Similar to Astral Chain and Control, SCARLET NEXUS is set in an alternate cyberpunk future of the world called “brain punk” and has humanity settling in on a new era of technological advancements thanks to psionic powers. The price for this, however, is the arrival of the Others—mutant creatures hungry for human brains. 

Will Scarlet Nexus have character creation?

In SCARLET NEXUS, you can choose between two distinct protagonists: the energetic Yuito Sumeragi who hails from a prestigious political family, and the mysterious Kasane Randall who is talented among her peers. The two of them work for the Other Suppression Force, which is tasked with defeating Others. Unlike most RPGs, you can’t customize your character as these two have in-depth storylines unique to themselves—from their missions to their teammates.

This is because the two belong to different teams in the OSF, so while they may cross paths at times, their stories tackle different parts of the mystery surrounding the psionics and the Others. You’ll have to play both routes to reveal the full story—which makes for great replayability. Plus, the game employs a teammate friendship system similar to the Persona games, which gives you combat bonuses.

For the combat, you also get different playstyles. Yuito wields a sword and deals big damage on single targets within a short distance, while Kasane telepathically controls knives and can do area-of-effect (AOE) damage. However, they can both throw environmental objects at enemies using their telekinesis. While the two have a lot of differences between them, the locations they visit are disappointingly the same—making your second playthrough a bit boring.

Walking the same path

All in all, SCARLET NEXUS is a great action RPG to try out if you like combat like NieR:Automata and Devil May Cry but with the visual style of Astral Chain and Code Vein. It features two story campaigns with different protagonists and allies—all depending on the character you chose. While the locations could use some variety, the overall experience itself encourages you to play both sides.