Warstride Challenges review (PS5)

Warstride Challenges, developed by Dream Powered Games and published by Focus Entertainment, offers a breakneck-paced first-person shooter experience focused on speed and precision. It can feel a bit like Doom, but unlike traditional narrative-driven campaigns, Warstride Challenges presents players with smaller-sized, repeatable trials that demand a degree of mastery of FPS mechanics in order to be successful. We checked it out on a PlayStation 5.

The game’s core revolves around completing stages as quickly as possible while eliminating all of the enemies in your path. Starting with straightforward corridors, the complexity escalates, requiring strategic maneuvering and tactical use of an expanding arsenal – as well as a good strategy going into each challenge. The emphasis on speed, precision, and airborne movement creates a thrilling experience, making you feel empowered when you string together a perfect sequence.

While the game’s pace and precision-oriented gameplay may seem daunting for newcomers, it’s a rewarding challenge for those who thrive on honing their skills and chasing perfection in their runs. The inclusion of medals and asynchronous challenges through Nemesis Mode adds layers of depth, encouraging players to push their limits and compete globally whenever they feel like being competitive.

In terms of trying to narrow down its gameplay style, Warstride Challenges blends elements from classic competitive shooters like Quake and CounterStrike:GO with the intensity and visuals of modern games like DOOM (2016). Its gunplay, inspired by the iconic titles we just mentioned, feels satisfying, and the game’s familiar movement mechanics, which range from bunny hopping to sliding, invite players into an exhilarating rhythm.

However fun Warstride Challenges is, the game is not without its minor imperfections. The UI design feels static and somewhat bland compared to AAA shooters, missing an opportunity for a more immersive navigation into its sci-fi world. Some control options, like the grappling hook function for instance, could also be a little more intuitive, potentially leading to frustrating moments in intense situations.

In terms of audio-visual elements, it’s hard to not compare Warstride Challenges to titles like DOOM and DOOM Eternal. And while the game looks good, it slightly falls short in comparison to DOOM Eternal’s PS5 build. You could say similar things about the soundtrack, which while energy-filled and intense lacks the kind of polish that help define the DOOM experience.

Overall, Warstride Challenges is an adrenaline-fueled blend of first person shooter action, borrowing notes from beloved titles while crafting its own identity. It provides an addictive, high octane experience for players seeking quick reflex challenges. For those willing to embrace the intensity, Warstride Challenges offers a compelling and satisfying FPS experience, making it a must-play for fans of the genre – though those seeking a more traditional campaign experience might be left wanting more.

Score: 8.2/10