Review of “Chains of Freedom” for PlayStation 5

We’re diving into Chains of Freedom, a game from Nordcurrent designed for the PS5 that channels the spirit of turn-based tactical classics like XCOM and Mutant Year Zero. Let’s unravel what this adventure holds!

Nordcurrent’s Chains of Freedom is set in a reimagined Eastern European dystopia, heavily impacted by a perilous entity known as EDEN. In this world, your task is to steer an elite military squad under the command of the Sovereignty, as you dig into a looming enigma. Everything began with an asteroid, and since then, EDEN crystals have been wreaking havoc, transforming people into insane mutants thirsty for destruction.

Thankfully, Sovereignty emerged, bringing a semblance of order. They concocted a serum to make humanity immune to these crystals. However, not everyone is eager to follow Sovereignty’s lead, spearheading revolts and starting their own regimes. Having experienced Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden and Miasma Chronicles, I was certainly keen to see what Chains of Freedom brings to the table.

In Chains of Freedom, you have three difficulty settings to select from: Story, Adventure, and Challenge. The Story mode is more forgiving, letting you soak up the narrative with fewer battle hurdles—enemies pack less of a punch, and reviving allies is less of a race against time. The Adventure setting strikes the right balance, offering a conventional challenge while requiring you to revive allies within three turns. For the seasoned strategists, the Challenge mode cranks up the intensity with sharp-shooting foes, aggressive tactics, and a narrow two-turn window to rescue incapacitated comrades.

As you navigate the game, the controls are straightforward. Move your characters with the left stick, adjust the camera view with the right stick, and run using R2. Interaction is mapped to the X button, with L1 and R1 for cycling through your team. Your inventory—accessed via the Circle button—contains additional weaponry and items like bandages to restore health.

When it comes to sustenance, food rations—capable of healing and providing a regenerative boost—are invaluable. Strategically splitting your squad might also be necessary to scout ahead or position them advantageously for an imminent skirmish. The Triangle button splits and regroups your team, while pressing Square allows you to initiate combat on your terms.

Once engaged in battle, every character has a selection of actions, moved along the D-Pad. Action Points (AP) dictate your ability to maneuver and strike and are refreshed every turn. You can also enhance your shot accuracy by using AP. Each team member possesses unique skills—like Fidel’s devastating Uppercut melee attack or Corgan’s vigilant Overwatch—that can turn the tide of combat.

Make efficient use of available cover, as environment manipulation is crucial for survival. Half or full cover spots provide differing degrees of protection, and you’ll need to be vigilant against enemy flanking tactics. Anticipate reinforcements, as additional enemies may arrive unannounced.

Loot gathered during your adventure can be used in crafting, accessed through the game menu. As you progress, more crafting recipes will become available, expanding your arsenal and capabilities. Finding and utilizing EDEN Biocrystals is another gameplay layer, allowing you to enhance your squad members with new skills and stats, though sometimes at a cost.

The game also rewards you with trophies for completing various objectives—ranging from basic tutorials and first wins to more complex feats involving particular strategies and character upgrades.

In summary, Chains of Freedom offers a compelling turn-based tactical journey on the PS5, enriched by its dystopian setting and multifaceted gameplay inspired by industry staples. Whether you’re drawn in by its strategic depth, engaging story, or challenging combat, there’s plenty to explore. It’s out now, and eager strategists can jump right in!

This review of Chains of Freedom is based on a PS5 copy kindly provided by Nordcurrent.