The Shocking Truth Behind Lies of P: Review Roundup

Lies of P is a unique blend of Pinocchio and Bloodborne, creating a bizarre and captivating experience. Set in a gothic, dark fantasy realm, you embark on battles as a warrior version of Pinocchio, where you have the ability to customize his puppet skills. The choices you make, whether they be lies or truths, will ultimately determine his ultimate destiny.

Reviews of Lies of P have generally been positive, with many praising the game's incorporation of the Bloodborne concept. Rather than being seen as a disappointment, the game successfully pays homage to the legacy of Bloodborne. While it may not reach the same level of greatness as classic From Soft games, it still holds its own and stands alongside the Souls series, according to most reviewers. Some common criticisms include the game's unwavering dedication to replicating the aesthetics and style of Bloodborne, inconsistent mechanics for dodging and parrying, as well as a customization system that feels unnecessary rather than essential. The game's narrative is a point of contention, with opinions varying from it being too lacking in substance to surprisingly thought-provoking and emotional, depending on who you ask.

Reviewer Richard Wakeling criticized the game "Lies of P" for heavily drawing from the tonal atmosphere and combat design of "Bloodborne," making it feel overly derivative at times. However, Wakeling also acknowledged that Neowiz managed to incorporate enough originality for "Lies of P" to establish its own identity, albeit a fragile one.

On Metacritic, the Xbox Series X and PlayStation versions of "Lies of P" have received a rating of 82, while the PC version has an average rating of 81. Below, you can find a selection of reviews from the website.

Game: Lies of PC

Platforms: PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4

Developer: Neowitz Games, Round8 Studio

Release Date: September 19

GameSpot - 8/10

"For the most part, however, Lies of P enhances existing mechanics and concepts with its unique narrative and aesthetic. While it may take inspiration from other sources, it effectively captures the essence of the Souls-like experience, where its diverse range of mechanics seamlessly blend together, resulting in an exhilarating action game that is both challenging and immersive." -- Richard Wakeling [Full review]

Price: $60

GLHF On Sports Illustrated - 8/10

"Despite its similarities to many other soulslike games, Lies of P manages to stand out. For die-hard soulslike players, there is the allure of a fresh storyline and multiple endings intertwined with challenging boss fights. For newcomers, Lies of P smoothly introduces you to the action." -- Georgina Young [Full review]

Digital Trends - 7/10

"Featuring a captivating setting and atmosphere, along with innovative gameplay mechanics that put a twist on the Soulslike formula, Lies of P presents one of the most impressive interpretations of the genre to date. While competing with strong contenders in the genre like Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, Code Vein, and Nioh, Lies of P holds its ground against them. However, it does have some notable flaws, particularly with the frustrating approach to boss battles. Developer Neowiz still has room to grow in order to reach the same caliber as the games that inspired it, but Lies of P is far from lackluster." -- George Yang (Our Website Contributor) [Full review]

IGN - 8/10

"Although Lies of P may not deviate significantly from its soulslike inspiration, it flawlessly assumes its role in a beautifully dark fantasy world, much like a marionette skillfully manipulated by its puppet master. It is worth mentioning that the uneven difficulty did not consistently make me feel like an underdog, particularly when embodying a robust, overpowering incarnation of Pinocchio armed with a colossal weapon. Furthermore, the combat confined me to a specific playstyle, while the levels themselves offered less openness and intricacy compared to most. However, with its remarkable weapon crafting system, impactful boss encounters, and one of the genre's more compelling stories, I wholeheartedly recommend immersing yourself in the company of Gepetto and companions." -- Travis Northup [Full review]

VG247 - 4/10

"Lies of P does possess some level of enjoyment. Its action is proficient, yet lacks the finesse and excitement found in its contemporary counterparts. The atmospheric setting can become absorbing, yet it comprises a medley of familiar themes and aesthetics that fail to transcend the ordinary. I never found myself truly impressed, and throughout my experience, I perpetually questioned the purpose of the entire endeavor." -- Sherif Saed [Full review]

Polygon - Unscored

"P's contributions to the genre offer a slow-burning experience. At the onset, there is just enough curiosity to captivate you and fortunately, it delivers. The game astounded me with its dark narrative, where avarice and the thirst for power caused a rift within the city. Despite a clear homage to its predecessors, it establishes its own existence — one where you ultimately determine which illusions to embrace." -- Diego Nicolás Argüello [Full review]