Ready at Dawn, the studio behind Facebook’s Oculus VR series Lone Echo, was recently shut down after over 20 years in the gaming industry. Before being acquired by Facebook in 2020, Ready at Dawn was known for creating PSP spin-offs of popular franchises like Daxter and God of War. In 2015, the studio released its own original IP, The Order: 1886, exclusively for the PlayStation 4.
Although The Order: 1886 received mixed reviews upon its initial release, it has aged well and is now available for just $10 as part of the PlayStation Summer Sale. The game follows the story of Sir Galahad, a member of an alternate history Knights of the Round Table, as he navigates a steampunk Victorian-era London filled with monstrous half-breeds. The game offers a brief but engaging experience, with an average playthrough time of around seven hours.
The Order: 1886 features a polished cover shooter gameplay with a unique steampunk setting. Players can wield a variety of period-appropriate firearms and futuristic weapons, including the electricity-firing Arc Induction Lance designed by a fictional version of scientist Nikola Tesla. The game also includes quick-time events that add to the immersive experience and showcase the attention to detail in its design.
Looking back on the potential of The Order: 1886, many fans and critics alike saw the opportunity for a sequel that could address the criticisms of the original game and further explore the intriguing world and characters. However, a sequel was never developed, and Ready at Dawn was eventually acquired by Meta, leaving the future of the franchise uncertain.
Despite its initial reception, The Order: 1886 is a game that deserves a second chance. With a discounted price and a fresh perspective, players can appreciate the game’s strengths and unique qualities that set it apart from other titles of its time. By revisiting The Order: 1886, players can immerse themselves in a captivating narrative, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a richly detailed world that still holds up years after its release.
In an industry that constantly evolves and reevaluates past works, The Order: 1886 stands out as a game that may have been ahead of its time. By giving it a second chance, players can rediscover the charm and potential of this underrated gem and celebrate the legacy of Ready at Dawn, a studio that left a lasting impact on the gaming community.