Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown (Compatible with Xbox One) - Xbox X

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a 2.5D side-scrolling action-adventure platformer developed by Ubisoft Montpellier. Released on January 18, 2024, for multiple platforms including Xbox Series X and Xbox One, the game marks a significant return to the franchise's roots, offering a fresh experience for both new players and long-time fans.

Players assume the role of Sargon, a young and agile warrior from the Inmortal clan, embarking on a perilous journey to the cursed city atop Mount Qaf to rescue the kidnapped Prince Ghassan. The narrative unfolds in a richly designed world inspired by Persian mythology, blending traditional storytelling with modern gameplay elements.

The game emphasizes fluid movement and combat mechanics. Sargon can jump, slide, and perform air dashes to navigate complex environments. Combat is dynamic, with Sargon wielding dual blades to execute swift attacks. A well-timed parry system allows players to fill the Athra's Gauge, unlocking powerful special abilities when fully charged.

Time-based powers play a crucial role in both exploration and combat. 'Rush of the Simurgh' enables Sargon to dash forward instantly, while 'Shadow of the Simurgh' lets him set a shadow marker, serving as a temporary checkpoint to which he can return instantly. These abilities add depth to the gameplay, requiring strategic thinking and precise timing.

The Lost Crown incorporates Metroidvania elements, featuring an interconnected world filled with shortcuts and secret rooms. Players encounter various puzzles that must be solved to progress. Time Crystals collected throughout the journey can be used to purchase weapon upgrades, enhancing Sargon's combat capabilities. The game encourages exploration, allowing players to revisit areas with newfound abilities to uncover hidden secrets.

A notable feature is the ability to take screenshots and pin them to the in-game map. This assists players in tracking unresolved puzzles or areas requiring further exploration, enhancing the overall experience by promoting thorough engagement with the game world.

The game's artistic direction combines modern cultural references with traditional Persian aesthetics. The development team aimed to modernize the franchise's image, introducing a fresh visual design that resonates with contemporary audiences while honoring the series' legacy.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its innovative gameplay mechanics, engaging story, and the seamless integration of time-manipulation abilities. The game was also lauded for its accessibility features, winning the Innovation in Accessibility award at The Game Awards 2024. These features, such as high-contrast mode and guided mode, were integrated into the core design, ensuring a challenging yet inclusive experience for a diverse player base.

Despite the positive reception and sales exceeding 1 million copies, the game did not meet Ubisoft's internal sales expectations, leading to the disbandment of the development team. Nonetheless, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown stands as a testament to the franchise's enduring appeal, successfully blending classic elements with modern innovations to deliver a memorable gaming experience.