The First Descendant Beta Preview: Good Intentions, Middling Execution

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As a new free-to-play looter shooter, The First Descendant faces heavy competition. Between established juggernauts like Destiny 2 and Warframe receiving regular expansions and the regular stream of smaller games, making yourself seen in this crowded genre isn’t easy. After spending time with The First Descendant’s upcoming beta test in solo play and four-player co-op, I don’t believe this will be the one to break through. What’s here is enjoyable enough, just nothing especially compelling.

The First Descendant’s story wouldn’t feel out of place in a classic sci-fi novel; it’s that old tale of humanity fending off alien invaders. Here, you can choose one of ten playable Descendants, each bringing unique skills to repel the Vulgus. You’re initially limited to choosing between three, unlocking the rest later through a Research Institute. With differing stats and combat skills, differences aren’t just skin deep; be aware that you can’t customize a Descendant’s appearance. Nexon Games says you can decorate them, a feature unavailable during this beta test, but the team wishes to retain everyone’s unique aspects.

Once I’d chosen my character, I arrived in Albion, The First Descendant’s pretty hub world. Here, you can upgrade your weapons, take on quests, and more. I ventured towards the Kingston region, picking up several field missions. Between defending set objects to investigating broken detectors, there’s some variance. Boss fights are separately contained within Void Intercept Battles, accessed from terminals across Albion. These fearsome foes have specific weak points to target and can’t be played alone, unlike field missions.

However, I didn’t find missions in this beta exciting, even when playing with friends. Despite