From the delightful minds at Joey Drew Studios comes yet another title following up the Bendy and the Inky Machine IP. In an interesting departure from what most come to expect (a first person adventure they have become known for), Bendy: Lone Wolf follows Boris and his daily grind. And make no mistake: "Every Day is a Challenge". In a Top-Down Rougelike Hack-and-Slash, the formula is something that may cater to a different audience that the original IP.  I was more than eager to step into Boris' shoes while he roamed the studio, so I dove in head-first.

Keep your eyes out for the Little Miracle boxes. This Golden Glowing safe haven will likely save you when you least expect it!

To begin with, players that are not at least somewhat familiar with Bendy lore may want to have some vague idea of the storyline, though the story elements of Lone Wolf do follow along and fill in some aspects for first time players. Ultimately I would lean towards having at least SOME understanding before. Story is not heavily interwoven, as most of the game is you doing "dives" into various areas into the studio for supplies. The more dives you do, the harder it becomes over time. Enemy diversity and frequency increases, providing more challenge as you play. There are also other factors you can unlock- this really is a bit of a grind-fest, constantly diving repeatedly in specific levels for specific items. Some are just the supplies you need to leave, others may give you a benefit (Like Boris' Favourite Bone, an item that gives you a very useful speed buff) or perhaps you may collect the amount of keys you need, and only find out later that perhaps opening that crate wasn't exactly what you expected.  

Slugs are a type of coin that has multiple uses. You can find them scattered throughout the levels, check how many you have in the piggybank at the safehouse, and use them to roll for perks in dives (or suffer the consequences).

This will most definitely be a game most people would classify as some what of a roguelike spin on the bendy universe, as you lead Boris though the Animation Studio while he gathers supplies. But you're NOT alone. As you make your way, dispatching small enemies you may come across, the Ink Demon prowls along. Look out for dead ends. You may not have afforded yourself a way out. This comes in multiple forms. Running, blocking, and swinging your weapon depletes stamina. There are Soup machines scattered throughout the levels to replenish you. But don't get caught out- or you won't be able to run. There are also safe havens, Little Miracle boxes you can hide in while danger passes.

But who wants to roll for perks? Why do that when you could spend some time over at the Arcade!? That sounds much more fun...

Another thing to consider, is where your exit is. You come in on the elevator, and you go out on the elevator. Path will branch from the elevator room, but it may be worth taking the time to figure out where all the supplies are that you need. Don't leave the supply that is the farthest away from you for the very last. It's gonna be one long run, and I promise you may struggle to make it. Once you gather the last of what you need on the floor, the real Hunt begins. Regardless of where you are, and where the Ink Demon is (even if you've avoided them entirely)- you are now the prime target. Now you have your bounty, leg it to the lift. If you don't, all your effort is for nothing. There are ways you can still make this work in your favor. Look at floorplans, ways to kite, or simply look for chances to have your last item be a straight jog to the exit. If you need to hide- you can. But just keep in mind that you no longer benefit from hiding in the same way. Take your time, wait for the Ink Demon to leave, but you have to be fast. He will come charging right back once you set foot outside that box.

RUN FOR THE LIFT! This is NOT a suggestion. Once that last supply is yours, leg it- the longer you stay, the more danger you're in.

While the premise is indeed unique, and is featuring a very prominent franchise, I couldn't help but find myself left feeling slightly disappointed, for a few reasons. The game itself is not bad at all by any measure, but the substance of it is very focused on grinding. Progress can feel very slow, and at times, frustrating. For example, in all the fuse boxes I've opened (Close to 50) I only have maybe 2 fuses. They are littered throughout Artists Rest, but the actual probability of them dropping seems insanely low. Combat feels quite slow, and almost turn based in a sense. Some enemies you can clonk and dispatch, others requiring multiple hits, it's a slow ping pong of block, get hit, hit, block. While not terrible it can feel a little tedious.  Between the grindy nature of progression, and the slow combat, I found it hard to stay engaged over longer play sessions.

Despite being straight forward, the bosses seem to have unique mechanics that make them fun while still presenting a bit of a challenge to dispatch.

 Overall, Bendy: Lone Wolf feels true to the franchise both in style and tone. It's absolutely beautiful. The music, tone, and narration are delightful, and overall it's true to the Bendy Universe. Once you get a hold of the slower rate of battle, it's a matter of grinding out all the little knick-knacks that are strewn across each level, and occasionally romping with a boss here or there. Though, so far they have functioned the same as other enemies. As long as you block, you're good. I feel this game is much more of a narrative additive that adds more flavour to the Bendy universe. It grinding isn't your thing, I would very likely skip this one, but if collecting is your forte, grab a bone and some soup.  

Bendy: Lone Wolf is currently available on the Steam Marketplace for $19.99 USD. HOWEVER, if you purchased Boris and the Dark Survival, you can enjoy this unique game absolutely FREE.