The iconic 1980s cult film Killer Klowns from Outer Space has made its way into the gaming world with IllFonic’s latest take on the asymmetrical multiplayer horror genre. Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game, available on current platforms including the PlayStation 5, pits players in a thrilling battle between the notorious Killer Klowns and the citizens of Crescent Cove. But while it offers a unique and engaging experience, it also comes with its share of highs and lows.
The game faithfully captures the whimsical yet terrifying essence of the original film – though we felt it could have been a good idea to include said film with the game as well, seeing as how many will be unfamiliar with it. Players can choose to either join the Klowns, working in a team of three to harvest humans using an array of bizarre abilities, or become one of the seven citizens of Crescent Cove, striving to evade capture and fight back using whatever resources they can find. This setup ensures a varied and dynamic experience, making each match feel fresh and unpredictable.
One of the standout aspects of the game is its novel approach to the asymmetrical multiplayer genre. The new 3v7 format mixes things up and introduces a distinct twist compared to other games in the genre. The randomly generated map layouts and diverse locations within Crescent Cove keep players on their toes, encouraging strategic thinking and cooperation, while dynamic objectives and evolving gameplay mechanics further enhance this.
However, the game isn’t without its flaws. While the premise and narrative are intriguing, they can sometimes feel thin, especially if you’re not a fan of the original film and have little connection to the source material as a result. The lack of a deeper storyline may leave some players wanting more context and depth to the overall experience in those cases, as it feels pretty random without it.
Gameplay mechanics are generally solid, with intuitive controls that make it easy to switch between different roles between rounds and utilize various abilities. However, there are moments where the controls can feel a bit clunky, particularly during intense chase sequences or when trying to execute precise actions while in danger and in a hurry. These occasional hiccups can disrupt the flow of gameplay and lead to some frustrating moments, even though they’re not new to the genre.
Visually, the game does a lovely job of recreating the eerie yet colorful aesthetic of the film. The Klowns are rendered in a lot of detail that fans of the film will appreciate, and the environments are richly designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia while also providing a suitably creepy backdrop for the action. The audio design complements this with a mix of eerie sound effects and an offbeat soundtrack that enhances the overall atmosphere.
The game does suffer from some balance issues though. The Klowns’ abilities can sometimes feel overpowered, making it difficult for the human players to stand a chance. This imbalance can lead to matches that feel one-sided and less enjoyable for those on the losing end, when the sweet spot is a game where you feel like it doesn’t matter which side you play on. Additionally, while the game offers plenty of fun and chaotic moments, it lacks significant surprises or innovations beyond its 3v7 unique setup, which might leave players seeking something more groundbreaking.
In conclusion, Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game is a nostalgic and entertaining experience that successfully brings a cult classic to a new medium. Its unique approach to asymmetrical multiplayer gameplay and vibrant visual and audio design make it a worthwhile addition to the genre. However, its thin narrative, occasional control issues, and balance problems prevent it from reaching its full potential. Fans of the original film and players looking for a fresh twist on multiplayer horror will find plenty to enjoy, even if the game doesn’t quite hit all the high notes.
Score: 6.9/10
Press Play Media 