ADEPTUS CRITICUS GAME REVIEWS

Developer Fatshark

Platforms PC & XBOX

System reviewed on PC

Warhammer 40,000 Darktide, developed by Fatshark, is an engaging first-person shooter that thrusts players into the grimdark universe of Warhammer 40,000. Set in the hive city of Tertium, this cooperative action game combines the visceral combat mechanics that fans of the genre adore with a deeply immersive Warhammer aesthetic.

At its core, Darktide emphasizes teamwork, challenging players to collaborate to survive hordes of enemies. The combat is a satisfying blend of melee and ranged attacks, reminiscent of Fatshark’s previous title Verminitide. The Melee combat is brutal and weighty, giving each swing a satisfying sense of impact as you slash tear away at the hordes. The ranged combat adds a tactical layer as players must balance ammunition management and positioning.

The game’s class system adds depth, with each class offering distinct abilities and playstyles. Whether you choose to play as a hardened Veteran, a Pysker or a brutish Ogryn, the diversity in character abilities encourages strategic diversity within teams.

Darktide excels in creating an atmospheric experience. The hive city of Tertium is depicted in stunning detail, with gothic architecture, industrial decay, and an oppressive sense of scale. The graphics are excellent, bringing the world to life in a way that fans will appreciate. Lighting and environmental effects further enhance the sense of dread and immersion, making every mission intense and consequential.

The audio design is another highlight. The sound effects for weapons and enemy encounters are visceral and impactful. The voice acting is solid, providing character and context to the missions, while the background music complements the grimdark setting perfectly. Fluctuating between eerie tension and bombastic action cues.

While Darktide’s primary focus is on gameplay, it does not skimp on lore. The narrative is woven into the missions and character interactions, providing a rich backdrop that will delight Warhammer enthusiasts. However, for the newcomers, the lore can be overwhelming at times, but it’s accessible enough to get the gist of the universe’s dark and unforgiving nature.

The game also offers significant Replayability and character customisation, the procedural generation of missions and enemy placements ensures that no two runs feel identical. Additionally, the progression system, including weapon upgrades and skill trees, provides a compelling reason to keep playing and improving your character. Additionally, Fatshark have recently released additional free content secrets of the machine god adding a new mission and new weapons.

Despite its strengths, Darktide is not without it flaws. The difficulty curve can be steep, particularly for new players not familiar with cooperative shooters. Additionally, some technical issues, such as occasional bugs and performance hitches, can detract from the experience, though these are relatives minor and likely to be addressed in future updates.

In conclusion Warhammer 40,000: Darktide is a robust and thrilling addition to the Warhammer gaming universe. Its blend of intense combat, atmospheric design, and cooperative gameplay creates an experience that is both challenging and rewarding. While it may present a steep learning curve and some technical hiccups, the overall package is a must-play for fans of the Warhammer series and those enjoy cooperative action games.

Darktide successfully captures the essence of Warhammer 40,000, providing a brutal and immersive experience that stands out in the crowded field of first -person shooters. Whether you’re a die-hard Warhammer fan or a newcomer to the series, this game offers a thrilling ride through the dark and dangerous universe of the 41^st millennium.

Rating 8/10

THE EMPEROR PROTECTS.