The Sakurajima update for Palworld is a much-needed improvement that brings a refreshing change to the game. I was fortunate enough to test it before it was officially released, and here is my hands-on review of this latest expansion for the already massive game that has only gotten bigger.
Pocket Pair has once again exceeded expectations with their latest release, featuring an expansive world that boasts breathtaking scenery, innovative additions, and a plethora of new Pals to discover.
Being a lover of Monster Collector games, Palworld was the perfect game that met all my expectations – an expansive and immersive experience with a vast and diverse map, featuring exquisitely crafted biomes.
Sakurajima offers a heightened version of the game, with multiple new areas to discover, unique dungeons to explore, and a demanding end-game adventure that requires dedication and patience to fully appreciate.
Despite its initial appearance of luxury and awe-inspiring beauty, Sakurajima can be deceiving. It is important to remain vigilant and cautious while taking in the stunning scenery, as the Island is home to a dangerous band of Shinobi who will not hesitate to attack if you make a mistake.
Expanding an already huge game
Sakurajima is a recently discovered location with a vast expanse to discover, featuring various biomes such as a misty wetland, a forest of mushrooms, an abandoned beach struck by lightning, a haunted graveyard, and of course, flourishing bamboo forests and blooming cherry blossom orchards.
In this incredibly detailed world, new characters can be found, such as Croajiro, a Toad Samurai armed with a stick and an impressive attitude. (Pun intended, and I absolutely adore it.)
Croajiro is definitely one of the best additions to Palworld.
The recent update greatly enhances the already excellent experience that the game has been offering since the initial Raid Boss update. The addition of features such as the Summoning Altar and Pal Boss Raids (Bellanoir Libero and Bellanoir Ultra) has resulted in a more streamlined gameplay and a more challenging end-game. The developers have now doubled their efforts, and players will definitely notice the difference as they reach the highest levels.
Exploring the Palpagos Islands feels like a whole new experience thanks to in-game events such as Meteorite Fall, Airdrops, and even Boss Pals nesting in the open. These events make it seem like the islands are a vibrant ecosystem, encouraging players to uncover every hidden corner.
The Sakurajima ninjas have advanced melee combat abilities, keep your distance.
The upgraded Dog Coin system elevates the process of grinding for hidden loot and salvaging through Wreckage to a higher level. With this updated currency, you can purchase a variety of new cosmetics, formidable accessories, and even Power-Ups to enhance your stats. Additionally, the introduction of Mimog, the Mimic-chest-dog Pal, adds a new element to the game as you strive to collect more Coins and reap exciting rewards.
The updated loot now available in Dungeons has enhanced the overall rewards of delving expeditions. As you advance through the adventure, the desire to conquer these challenges in order to obtain coveted blueprints, manuals, accessories, and Elixirs – the new boost items – only grows stronger.
Naturally, this also encompasses the recently added Blazamut Ryu slab fragments that are obtainable from Dungeon reward chests. Trust me when I say that having a full team of over 20 Pals in your base, along with additional Pal trainers, is crucial before undertaking this Raid. It is highly recommended to reach maximum level as well.
Knocklem is one of the new and challenging bosses you’ll face.
Base building became meaningful and difficult, and that’s good
At its core, Palworld is a Survival game that has been significantly revamped by Sakurajima.
Pocket Pair has successfully implemented new buildings and improved resource extraction techniques, resulting in a seamless chain of progression that allows your base to evolve from a shabby hut camp to an impregnable Pal city.
Despite the constant threat of bandits and enemy factions attacking your base, your Pals will be equipped with upgraded AI to effectively defend against them. Previously, Pals would encounter difficulty during a bandit Raid but this issue has been resolved.
Some familiar faces are roaming Sakurajima’s biomes, but their levels will be higher than in the mainland.
This statement also applies to all fundamental actions, as any problems related to using workstations have been resolved in the game and the ally Pal AI is now more reliable.
Despite the fact that the limits for base building can be a bit strict, this is not necessarily a negative aspect. With the necessity of specialized bases in multiple locations due to Sakurajima’s influence, there is no need for excessive fortresses to be constructed.
As a player, it is ultimately your decision to make. After all, what is the point of setting limitations so early when the game has many other exciting aspects beyond just creating the perfect base?
Steps for Enhancing the User Experience
When I first arrived at Sakurajima, I felt like I was venturing into unfamiliar territory. My first encounter with Helzephyr Lux, one of the new Pals, resulted in chaos and loss of life. However, I quickly realized that I was not adequately prepared and my Pals and I retreated to recover and returned with a better strategy for our second attempt.
I have to commend them for their understanding of the concept of end-game. The developers have successfully created a satisfying gaming experience, even for experienced players. After thoroughly exploring the lively new zone, I challenged the turf leaders: Saya and Selyne. It is safe to say that this was the most challenging Faction Boss battle in the entire game.
There are some cool Alice in Wonderland references around Sakurajima, blink and you’ll miss them.
Even after completing the additional 30 hours of gameplay that the update offers in normal mode and without adjusting the difficulty levels, it is clear that Palworld Sakurajima still has more content to offer. The experience of fighting the post-Faction Boss remains satisfying and seamless.
With the addition of dozens of new Pals, the already extensive breeding chart has grown even larger, offering endless possibilities. However, reaching this stage requires a significant amount of material grinding, including the collection of Oil for crafting Plasteel, the latest end-game resource. This task is notoriously difficult, making proper base management crucial. Trust me, it’s important to closely monitor your base.
Before diving into the Sakurajima update, I had already invested more than one hundred hours into the game to unlock the majority of its content. As of now, I have dedicated almost 30 hours to fully experiencing all the latest additions and I still have more to explore. With countless Pals to breed, additional crafting opportunities, and uncharted dungeons waiting to be discovered, my adventure is far from over.
Dungeons have been considerably overhauled, with new loot, enemies, and visuals.
As you correctly guessed, there will be additional Lifmunk Effigies to collect. However, there is good news – the grind for these Effigies will have new catch rate levels. This means that if you were having difficulty obtaining Jetragon before, you now have a better chance to balance the playing field.
After discussing design at length, it’s time for the most exciting part: taking out Pals with our upgraded arsenal. From the Meteorite Shooter and Guided Missile Launcher to the Grenade Launcher, Laser Rifle, and Gattling Gun, using these top-of-the-line weapons to blast enemies is an exhilarating experience.
The Cemetery of Sakurajima is a cursed foggy land, filled with dangerous Pals.
With the addition of Perks and Accessories that prevent Lethal damage, it is now possible to reduce your opponent’s Pals to 1 HP and safely contain them in their Pal-Spheres. If you choose to take a non-violent approach, no one will interfere with your decision.
In general, the enhancements to the design have left me thoroughly impressed and still craving for more!
The verdict – 5/5
Sakurajima offers a fantastic experience, featuring everything from engaging gameplay to masterful soundtrack composition. It also includes clever pop-culture references and meticulous scenario design, making it a must-try for any fan of Japanese culture.
Sakurajima is stunningly beautiful, and challenging at the same time.
Despite being open to improvement, the basic limitation does not take away from the predominantly positive updates and alterations that come with the update. Pocket Pair has demonstrated their ability to keep their commitments, and I am excited to witness their potential in the times ahead.
Palworld has successfully demonstrated that a combination of high quality and quantity is the key to an immersive, rewarding, and enjoyable gameplay experience. It is clear that they have found the winning formula.
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