Blasphemous 1 vs. 2: Which Pilgrimage Should You Undertake?
If you’re looking for a grim, gothic Metroidvania experience steeped in religious iconography and challenging combat, then the Blasphemous series is definitely on your radar. But with two entries now available, the question arises: Which Blasphemous game is better?
The answer, unequivocally, is Blasphemous 2. While the original Blasphemous laid a strong foundation with its striking art style and brutal atmosphere, Blasphemous 2 refines and expands upon almost every aspect, delivering a more polished, engaging, and ultimately satisfying experience.
A Penitent Comparison: Why Blasphemous 2 Ascends
While the original Blasphemous was a compelling title that was lauded by many, several areas were ripe for improvement. Blasphemous 2 addresses these concerns head-on, resulting in a superior game. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
Gameplay Enhancements: Mobility and Combat
The most significant upgrade in Blasphemous 2 is the increased mobility afforded to the Penitent One. The addition of a double jump (the “Passage of Ash”) and a dash ability fundamentally alters how you traverse the map. Suddenly, previously inaccessible areas become attainable, and combat encounters gain an extra layer of strategic depth. These additions alone make exploration far more enjoyable and feel less restrictive than in the original game.
Combat in Blasphemous 2 is also vastly improved. Players begin the game by choosing one of three different weapon types, each with its own unique moveset and playstyle. These are the Ruego Al Alba (sword), the Veredicto (incense thurible) and the Sarmiento & Centella (dual daggers). This customization element is absent in the first game, where you’re locked into a single weapon. The presence of multiple weapons encourages experimentation and allows players to tailor their fighting style to their preferences. The weapons can be upgraded by finding Marks of Martyrdom in game. The combat feels tighter and more responsive overall, making each encounter feel more deliberate and rewarding.
Level Design and World Building
The world of Cvstodia in Blasphemous 2 is noticeably larger and more interconnected than in the original. The environments are more varied and visually striking, and the level design is generally more intricate and rewarding. The Metroidvania aspects are heightened, encouraging exploration and backtracking as you unlock new abilities. The game world is a massive improvement in comparison to the world of Cvstodia in Blasphemous 1.
Furthermore, Blasphemous 2 provides a more compelling narrative and a more engaging cast of characters. While the first game’s story was shrouded in mystery, Blasphemous 2 offers a clearer understanding of the lore and the motivations of the various factions vying for power. This gives you a better sense of investment in the world and the Penitent One’s mission.
Difficulty and Accessibility
While both Blasphemous games are challenging, Blasphemous 2 offers a slightly more balanced difficulty curve. The early game is more forgiving, allowing players to ease into the mechanics and explore the world without being constantly overwhelmed. The difficulty does ramp up in the later stages, but it feels more fair and less reliant on frustrating enemy placements. In this way, Blasphemous 2 offers a challenging but fair experience to players.
Blasphemous 2 also includes some quality-of-life improvements that make the game more accessible. For example, the map is more detailed and easier to read, and there are more frequent checkpoints, reducing the frustration of dying and having to repeat long sections.
Content and Replayability
Blasphemous 2 offers significantly more content than its predecessor. The main story is longer, and there are more side quests, secrets, and collectibles to discover. The presence of multiple endings adds to the game’s replayability, encouraging players to explore different paths and make different choices.
Furthermore, the post-launch support for Blasphemous 2 has been excellent, with new content and updates being added regularly. This ensures that the game remains fresh and engaging long after you’ve completed the main story.
Why Blasphemous 1 Still Holds Merit
Despite Blasphemous 2’s clear superiority, the original Blasphemous still holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. Its dark, oppressive atmosphere, striking pixel art style, and challenging combat made it a unique and memorable experience. It introduced the world to the grotesque beauty of Cvstodia and established the core gameplay mechanics that would be refined in the sequel.
If you are looking for a more unforgiving and challenging experience, then Blasphemous 1 might be a better choice. However, if you prioritize gameplay mechanics, exploration, and overall polish, then Blasphemous 2 is the clear winner.
Conclusion: A Worthy Successor
In conclusion, Blasphemous 2 is a superior game to Blasphemous 1 in almost every way. It refines and expands upon the core gameplay mechanics, offers a more engaging story and world, and provides a more balanced and accessible experience. While the original Blasphemous is still a worthwhile game, Blasphemous 2 is the definitive Blasphemous experience. It is a must-play for fans of Metroidvanias, Souls-likes, and anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding action-platformer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How hard is Blasphemous 2 compared to the first game?
Blasphemous 2 is generally considered slightly easier than the first game, especially in the early stages. While it still offers a significant challenge, the difficulty curve is more balanced, and the quality-of-life improvements make it more accessible. The second half of the game and the boss fights will likely test your skills, though.
How many endings does Blasphemous 2 have?
Blasphemous 2 has two distinct endings. Achieving both requires completing specific side quests and making particular choices throughout the game.
Is Blasphemous 2 a Metroidvania?
Yes, Blasphemous 2 is a Metroidvania game. Players explore a large, interconnected world, unlocking new abilities that allow them to access previously inaccessible areas.
How long does it take to beat Blasphemous 2?
The main story of Blasphemous 2 typically takes around 20 hours to complete. Completionists can expect to spend around 30 hours exploring every nook and cranny and unlocking all the achievements.
What are the different weapons in Blasphemous 2?
Blasphemous 2 features three weapons: the Ruego Al Alba (sword), the Veredicto (incense thurible), and the Sarmiento & Centella (dual daggers). Each weapon offers a unique playstyle and can be upgraded throughout the game.
Is Blasphemous harder than Elden Ring?
This is a subjective question, but generally, Elden Ring is considered to be harder than Blasphemous, due to its open world and multitude of bosses. Blasphemous may not reach the same scale as Elden Ring.
Is Blasphemous similar to Hollow Knight?
Both Blasphemous and Hollow Knight are Metroidvanias, but they have different styles. Hollow Knight emphasizes exploration and platforming, while Blasphemous leans more heavily into its Soulslike combat and dark, gothic atmosphere.
Is Blasphemous DLC free?
Yes, Blasphemous has had free DLC. The Stir of Dawn DLC was available for free to all owners of the game.
Can you double jump in Blasphemous?
Yes, you can double jump in Blasphemous 2. The double jump ability, called “Passage of Ash,” is acquired early in the game and is essential for exploration. The double jump is not possible in the first game in the series.
What is the hardest boss in Blasphemous 2?
Many consider Eviterno, First Of The Penitents/Last Desecrator to be the hardest boss in Blasphemous 2, due to his fast attacks and relentless aggression.
Is Blasphemous hard to navigate?
In both games, navigation can be challenging due to the intricate level design and the lack of a detailed map. However, Blasphemous 2’s map is significantly improved over the original, making it easier to find your way around.
Is Blasphemous Blade strong?
The Blasphemous Blade is a powerful weapon in Elden Ring. Its skill, Taker’s Flame, deals significant damage and heals the player. But keep in mind that it has high attribute requirements for wielding it effectively.
How many bits is Blasphemous?
Blasphemous requires a 64-bit processor and operating system.
Is Blasphemous best faith weapon?
Blasphemous Blade is a very strong contender for the best Faith weapon in Elden Ring.
Where can I learn more about the intersection of games and learning?
You can find many resources and insights on the educational potential of video games at the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The GamesLearningSociety.org has dedicated years to researching and promoting games as a tool for education.