Developed by Ready At Dawn, The Order: 1886 is a third-person action adventure game released exclusively for the PlayStation 4 on January 13, 2015. Set in a richly detailed alternate Victorian England, this title blends Arthurian legend with steampunk aesthetics to deliver a linear, cinematic experience. Players step into the boots of Grayson, also known as Galahad, a member of the Order of the Knights of the Round Table, as they navigate a world teetering on the brink of chaos.

World and Narrative

The game unfolds in a reimagined 1886 where the gentry rule over a society of rebelling common citizens. Central to the lore is the Order of the Knights of the Round Table, an ancient group of knights who have survived for centuries using a mysterious substance known as the Black Water. This elixir grants the knights immortality, halting their aging process and allowing them to regenerate from wounds. The narrative follows the Order's struggle against lycans, a race of werewolf-like mutants resembling human-animal hybrids, and the internal conspiracy unraveling within the high ranks of the Order itself. As Grayson, you are tasked with investigating these conspiracies while battling the encroaching threat of the half-breeds.

Gameplay Mechanics

The Order: 1886 operates primarily as a cover-based shooter with a focus on linear progression. The combat system requires players to lock into cover, peek out to engage enemies, and manage resources carefully. Grayson is equipped with an arsenal of period-appropriate and steampunk-inspired weaponry, including automatic rifles, pistols, and various types of grenades. Melee combat plays a crucial role, offering silent takedowns that allow players to eliminate foes without alerting others. The experience is punctuated by heavy use of quick time events (QTEs) to enhance dramatic moments. Players can explore these linear levels to find collectibles that expand upon the game's deep lore, though the focus remains on the tightly scripted action sequences.

Notable Features

  • Visual Fidelity: Recognized for its stunning, photo-realistic graphics, the game showcases the technical capabilities of the PS4 with incredible attention to detail. Technical implementations include advanced multi-sampling anti-aliasing to ensure visual clarity across diverse environments.
  • Steampunk Innovation: The setting features advanced technology for the era, including zeppelins hovering overhead and unique armaments designed by a young Nikola Tesla.
  • Atmospheric Immersion: The game recreates the Victorian Era with aggressive attention to aesthetic detail, blending historical elements with fantastical creatures and conspiracies.

Who Should Play The Order: 1886?

This title is ideal for fans of cinematic action games and players who appreciate high-fidelity graphics and atmospheric storytelling. It appeals to those interested in Arthurian mythology reimagined through a steampunk lens, as well as PS4 owners seeking a polished, linear shooter experience. With a Metacritic score of 63.00, the game offers a visually impressive journey for those who prioritize style and narrative presentation. The game serves as a technical showcase for the console, attracting tech enthusiasts and those who enjoy the visual prowess of early PS4 first-party titles.