Lies of P a Late Review of the Must-Play Soulslike Game

The Soulslike genre has seen many entries over the years, but few have captured the imagination quite like Lies of P. This game takes the familiar formula of challenging combat and dark storytelling and adds a unique twist inspired by the classic tale of Pinocchio. If you have been hesitant to try it or missed the initial buzz, this review will explain why Lies of P deserves a spot on your gaming list.

We started Lies of P on a whim, a sick kid and travel plans over thanksgiving left us with free time and nothing on the docket while away from home. Fast forward a week and a half alter after "giving" it a try, we had beaten the titular Lies of P solely from our PlayStation Portal. It truly was worth the hype and a great experience for those looking for it in 2025.

Lies of P features a dark, gothic city setting with a mechanical puppet protagonist

A Fresh Take on the Must-Play Soulslike Formula

At first glance, Lies of P fits comfortably within the must-playSoulslike genre. It offers punishing combat, intricate level design, and a mysterious world filled with danger. What sets it apart is the narrative and character design. Instead of a typical knight or warrior, you play as a mechanical puppet inspired by Pinocchio or P, navigating the Krat city plagued by chaos and deception.

The game’s story revolves around the puppet’s quest to get to the bottom of the Puppet Frenzy and destruction of Krat, but this journey is anything but straightforward. The choices you make influence the ending, and the game cleverly weaves themes of truth, lies, and identity into the gameplay. This narrative depth adds a layer of engagement that many Soulslike games lack.

Combat and Gameplay Mechanics

Combat in Lies of P is tight and rewarding. The game demands precision, timing, and strategy. Enemies are varied, from grotesque monsters to corrupted humans, each requiring different tactics. The game encourages experimentation with weapons and abilities, allowing players to tailor their fighting style.

One standout feature is the weapon customization system. You can modify your weapons with parts scavenged from defeated foes, creating unique combinations that suit your approach. This system adds replay value and a sense of ownership over your combat style.

The game also features a stamina system familiar to Souls fans, but it balances challenge with fairness. While some bosses can be tough, the learning curve feels natural rather than punishing. This makes Lies of P accessible to newcomers without losing the core difficulty that veterans appreciate.

World Design and Atmosphere

The city in Lies of P is a character itself. Its dark, gothic architecture and eerie atmosphere create a sense of dread and curiosity. Exploration is rewarding, with hidden paths, secrets, and lore scattered throughout.

The level design encourages careful observation and planning. Narrow streets, towering buildings, and claustrophobic interiors build tension. The game uses lighting and sound effectively to immerse players in its unsettling world.

This setting perfectly complements the story’s themes. The decaying city mirrors the puppet’s struggle with identity and morality, making every corner feel meaningful.

Visuals and Audio

Visually, Lies of P impresses with detailed environments and character models. The mechanical design of the puppet protagonist is both creepy and fascinating, fitting the game’s tone. Lighting effects enhance the mood, especially during night sequences and boss fights.

The soundtrack supports the atmosphere with haunting melodies and intense battle music. Sound design plays a crucial role, alerting players to enemy movements and environmental hazards. Together, visuals and audio create a cohesive experience that draws players deeper into the game world.

Challenges and Learning Curve

The standout feature to us is mixing all of this in a great package without it being too punishing to those who are new or inconsistent with the Soulslike genre. The bosses are rewarding but not so punishing that you spend hours beating against a wall. We only had two bosses near the ending of the game that had us replaying again and against to finish it. However, these were appropriate challenging and the difficulty fit the narrative and world it was in without frustrating you to no end.

The game’s pacing and difficulty curve are well balanced. It provides a satisfying sense of accomplishment when overcoming tough enemies or uncovering hidden secrets.

Why Lies of P Is Worth Playing

• Unique protagonist and story: The mechanical puppet and its quest for humanity offer a fresh narrative angle.

• Engaging combat system: Customizable weapons and strategic fights keep gameplay interesting.

• Atmospheric world: The dark city setting enhances immersion and storytelling.

• Replay value: Multiple endings and weapon builds encourage multiple playthroughs.

• Accessible difficulty: While challenging, the game welcomes both newcomers and Souls veterans.

  
  

For fans of the genre looking for something new, Lies of P delivers a memorable experience that stands out from other Soulslike games.

Final Thoughts on Lies of P

Lies of P combines the best elements of Soulslike games with a unique story and setting. Its challenging combat, atmospheric world, and meaningful narrative make it a must-play for anyone interested in the genre. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to these games, Lies of P offers a rewarding journey worth taking.

We give Lies of P, an 8 out of 10 great experience in 2025, worth your time and money.