When we first discussed the idea of doing a series on Zelda-likes for Retro Encounter, I immediately wanted to cover Darksiders. I've long considered this series to be one of the most under-appreciated gems of the previous console generation, so it was refreshing to revisit the first game for the podcast. War's bloody quest for redemption covers a lot of the same beats as Link's innumerable adventures, but it does so with unique and stylish flair. The game isn't without its flaws, to be sure: The Black Throne is an almost unbearable slog, and there are definitely some areas where the game feels less fleshed out than it could be. Nevertheless, Darksiders is a truly special game, and now that we have Darksiders III on the horizon, I can't wait to take another journey alongside the Horsemen of the Apocalypse.

Also, I can't believe I made it through two episodes without making a Metallica reference. Maybe if we do Darksiders II...

To call Darksiders simply a Zelda clone is to discredit everything that this series has created. Vigil Games has created a world that subverted all of my expectations, fleshing out amazing set pieces that would fit perfectly in any 90s era comic book. It tells a story that, as a whole, offers a new and exciting look at a biblically old story. While some elements fall flat on their face, and I still have nightmares of the Black Throne, Darksiders is truly an experience that I would recommend to any interested gamers. I came into this episode expecting simply another game for me to complete, yet when I finished I found myself at the edge of my seat, desperately wanting to learn more about this series. Thank goodness we'll be able to continue this saga once Darksiders III is released!

Darksiders has been sitting on my ever-growing gaming docket since its release. When it showed up as May's Retro Encounter game, I knew it was time to drag that sucker to the front of the list. I have no regrets doing so, because Darksiders is a fun game. Vigil Games did a lovely job with their landscapes (loved the Ashlands), hired an outstanding voice cast to present the narrative (Mark Hamill is always a perfect choice), and made mindlessly hacking and slashing everything satisfying. I think my major gripe with the game is War's speed — which is just a personal pet peeve I have with most games (I like fast movement). Besides that and what was said on the podcast, I think Darksiders is worth your time if you were still on the fence about starting this series. Really, give it a shot and I think you'll enjoy it.