Project Downfall, developed by MGP Studios, thrusts players into a cyberpunk world, delivering a blend of old-school action with modern tech. The game, now available on multiple systems including the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, paints a dystopian picture where societal norms have crumbled, and players step into the shoes of a familiar-looking vigilante navigating through the chaos. Here’s our review.
The narrative unfolds in Crimson Tide – no, not the submarine film, but the first mega-city of Europe. This was supposed to be a utopia where two opposing systems coexist, and it’s a city where the protagonist, who resembles John Wick, balances his corporate life with a secret nightlife as a self-proclaimed dealer of justice. The story is about his journey into being a vigilante, and there are definite nods to films Falling Down as a source of inspiration. This mix means you’ll encounter some more questionable themes, though the storytelling also has a tendency to fall a little flat, especially in side missions that feel high of themes and low on details. There’s a branching storyline, but the lack of detail makes potentially different outcomes feel relatively unimpactful.
Gameplay-wise, Project Downfall introduces an unorthodox semi-tactical shooter experience, feeling like a mix of a classic 3D shooter and games where you plan ahead to be successful – like Hotline Miami or God’s Trigger. The action is generally fast-paced, demanding reflexes and an awareness of your environment as you move through the levels. The incorporation of temporary superpowers, which are unlocked through pills, adds an extra layer to combat, allowing for creative and stylish dispatching of foes while active. The challenge lies in the balance between risk and reward as well, as one-hit deaths are prevalent and can be a source of frustration. The AI, unfortunately, feels rather basic, using predictable patterns that become easy to exploit once you’ve figured them out.
The controls on the PlayStation 5 version are serviceable, but movements can feel sluggish compared to games like DOOM Eternal, while the inclusion of an exhaustion meter can hamper the enjoyment of the game’s combat. The aiming mechanics could also be tightened up, not always feeling as responsiveness as you’d like. The ability to slow down time with pills helps, but as with all bullet time mechanics this is a temporary fix. Meanwhile, the load times between hub levels, especially on the Switch, also contribute to occasional frustration.
Visually, Project Downfall adopts a cyberpunk retro style, complete with a pixelated aesthetic and neon-drenched colors. This look is initially impressive and fresh, but falls a little short in execution as levels feel a bit devoid of diversity, and the same goes for the enemies you face, diminishing potential of the game world – though there’s a disco level that certainly stands out as an audiovisual highlight.
Part of that is that the original soundtrack for the game emerges as a highlight, elevating the cyberpunk aesthetic with atmospheric and fitting tracks. The soundtrack’s quality contributes significantly to the overall experience, offering a sense of immersion that complements the action-packed gameplay.
Project Downfall is a mixed bag of exhilarating highs and frustrating lows. The adrenaline-rich action, interesting game world and soundtrack provide glimpses of greatness. However, narrative inconsistencies, AI shortcomings and control issues detract from the overall experience. Despite its flaws, Project Downfall is still a cyberpunk shooter with interesting angles that will ensure that it’ll find its audience.
Score: 6.8/10
Press Play Media 