SPRAWL, developed by MAETH and published by Rogue Games, offers a gritty, adrenaline-pumping experience rooted in the fast-paced traditions of classic first-person shooters like Quake. Having debuted on PC earlier this year, the PlayStation 5 version delivers an updated slice of dystopian cyberpunk action. With its blend of wall-running mechanics, visceral gunplay, and an industrial aesthetic, SPRAWL feels like a love letter to retro FPS fans while injecting its own unique ideas into the mix.
The story centers on SEVEN, a cybernetically enhanced soldier betrayed by her military overlords and trapped in a sprawling, decaying megalopolis. The backdrop feels like a mashup of cyberpunk influences in both its aesthetic and the sense oppression you feel, all while unraveling a mystery tied to the enigmatic Spire. While the overarching tale is compelling, its delivery can feel fragmented, as much of the backstory is conveyed through environmental storytelling and cryptic in-game dialogue, leaving gaps in the lore for players to piece together themselves.
Gameplay is SPRAWL’s strongest asset, with frenetic combat and innovative traversal mechanics. The Icarus cybernetic implant allows SEVEN to seamlessly transition between wall-running, leaping, and gunning down enemies in midair. This dynamic movement system adds a refreshing layer to combat encounters, demanding precision and creative problem-solving. The game’s arsenal is satisfyingly varied, with weapons like the katana and shotgun offering distinct playstyles, while the adrenaline-triggered slow-motion mechanic ensures the action feels cinematic and impactful. In some ways, it’s Ghostrunner if you added tons of guns.
Despite its emphasis on speed and fluidity, SPRAWL’s controls can take time to master, especially when wall-running is involved. The mechanics occasionally lack the polish of modern platformers, leading to few frustrating moments. These instances are rare but noticeable, particularly during high-stakes sequences with a lot going on and only a split second to decide.
Visually, SPRAWL delivers a striking retro-futuristic aesthetic, blending neon-soaked backdrops with desolate industrial ruins. Inspired in part by anime classics, the environments are evocative, though their limited variety can cause the setting to feel repetitive after prolonged play. On the audio front, the game’s dynamic electronic soundtrack excels, adapting to the pace of combat and amplifying the intensity of encounters. The sound design, from the subtle hum of neon signs to the piercing screams of enemies, contributes significantly to the sense of atmosphere.
SPRAWL is an ambitious entry into the retro FPS genre, combining classic influences with modern innovations. Its mix of novel movement mechanics and visceral gunplay make it a joy to play, though occasional control hiccups and a somewhat disjointed narrative delivery hold it back from greatness. For fans of cyberpunk and fast-paced shooters, SPRAWL offers a rewarding, heart-pounding experience that’s as stylish as it is brutal.
Score: 7.8/10
Press Play Media 