Graphics and Atmosphere:
From the moment you start Blackthorne, you'll be drawn into its gritty and foreboding world. The game's graphics, while limited by the SNES's capabilities, make effective use of atmospheric lighting and detailed character sprites. The environments are beautifully designed, featuring dark and moody backgrounds that perfectly set the tone for the game's oppressive atmosphere. The attention to detail in the animations adds an extra layer of immersion, making every action and movement feel impactful.

Gameplay and Controls:
Blackthorne combines action, platforming, and puzzle-solving elements to create an engaging and challenging experience. Playing as the titular character, Kyle "Blackthorne" Vlaros, a brooding and heavily-armed warrior, you'll embark on a quest for revenge against the forces of the evil Sarlac. The gameplay focuses on exploration, precision platforming, and strategic combat.

The controls are simple and responsive, allowing you to easily navigate the treacherous environments and engage in intense firefights. Blackthorne has an arsenal of weapons at his disposal, from shotguns and grenades to bombs and landmines, which adds variety to the combat encounters. The inclusion of cover mechanics and the ability to dodge enemy fire adds a tactical element, requiring you to think on your feet during heated battles.

Level Design and Puzzles:
The game's levels are intricately designed, with a good balance of platforming challenges, enemy encounters, and clever puzzles. Each stage presents unique obstacles and hazards that must be overcome using a combination of precise jumps, timed attacks, and environmental interactions. The puzzles are well-integrated into the gameplay, requiring you to explore your surroundings, find keys, and unlock hidden areas to progress.

Story and Characters:
Blackthorne features a compelling and dark fantasy narrative that unfolds through in-game cutscenes and dialogue exchanges. The protagonist, Blackthorne, is a memorable character with a mysterious past, and his journey to liberate his homeland from Sarlac's forces is filled with twists and turns. The game successfully creates a sense of urgency and drives you forward as you uncover the secrets of the world.

Replayability and Legacy:
While Blackthorne's main campaign can be completed in a reasonable amount of time, the game offers a decent amount of replay value. Exploring alternate paths, discovering hidden items, and perfecting your combat skills adds depth and encourages multiple playthroughs. Furthermore, Blackthorne's legacy is evident in its influence on later action-platformers, particularly its impact on the development of cinematic storytelling in video games.