Atomfall review (PS5)

Set against the backdrop of a reimagined 1960s Northern England, Atomfall immerses players in a world that is dealing with the aftermath of a nuclear disaster. The game’s narrative unfolds as a mystery after you awaken in a military bunker, devoid of memories, thrust into the quarantined zone surrounding the Windscale incident. This premise sets the stage for a journey filled with intrigue, where uncovering the truth behind the catastrophe becomes paramount. The narrative’s depth is commendable, offering a rich tapestry of (side) stories that keep players engaged. However, some plot elements may feel overly familiar to enthusiasts of the post-apocalyptic genre, potentially diminishing the impact of certain twists for some.

Gameplay in Atomfall emphasizes exploration and player choice. Rather than following a linear path, the game presents interconnected narratives influenced by your decisions. This design encourages multiple playthroughs, as different choices lead to varied outcomes. The freedom to approach situations in diverse ways – be it through combat, diplomacy, or stealth – adds additional layers to the experience. However, this openness can sometimes lead to ambiguity, leaving players uncertain about the consequences of their actions and where to focus next. Some objectives feel vague, which can result in aimless wandering rather than meaningful discovery.

The combat system, while functional, lacks the refinement seen Rebellion’s Sniper games. Encounters often feel repetitive, and enemy AI exhibits predictable patterns, reducing the challenge over time. This simplicity in combat contrasts with the game’s otherwise intricate design, making confrontations feel more like obstacles than integral components of the narrative. While gunplay is responsive, weapons and ammunition are scarce, often making melee combat (or stealth) a necessity. Unfortunately, the melee system feels clunky, lacking the weight and precision needed to make it satisfying. The stamina system also plays a role in combat, but its implementation can feel more like an inconvenience than a strategic element if you’re a combat-focused player.

Exploration is one of Atomfall’s strongest aspects. The game offers a richly detailed world filled with abandoned towns, underground bunkers, and unsettling cult hideouts that may hide clues or rewards. The setting is dense with lore, encouraging players to piece together the past through environmental storytelling. NPCs add further depth, often revealing chilling details about life in the quarantine zone. However, some side quests feel underdeveloped, offering little in terms of rewards or meaningful world-building. A stronger emphasis on unique questlines would have further enriched the game’s immersive world.

Visually, Atomfall captures the essence of the British countryside, juxtaposing serene landscapes with the eerie remnants of nuclear devastation. The game’s engine allows for detailed environments, though some textures and character models lack polish, occasionally breaking immersion. The atmospheric design, complemented by dynamic lighting, effectively conveys the game’s somber tone. However, technical inconsistencies, such as texture pop-ins and occasional frame rate drops, detract from the visual fidelity. These issues are particularly noticeable in dense areas, where performance dips can momentarily pull players out of the experience.

Audio design stands out as a highlight. The soundtrack, blending orchestral compositions with period-appropriate tunes, enriches the game’s setting. Ambient sounds, from the rustling of leaves to distant echoes, enhance immersion. The sound design plays a crucial role in building tension, with subtle audio cues often signaling nearby dangers. Voice acting is generally strong, though some performances lack emotional depth, which can lessen the impact of pivotal scenes. The quality of voiceovers varies between characters, with some NPCs delivering more convincing performances than others.

Atomfall succeeds in delivering a compelling atmosphere and a world filled with mystery, rewarding players who take the time to explore its intricacies. The blend of post-apocalyptic survival with folk horror and cultural elements creates a unique identity that sets it apart from more traditional survival games – as well as Rebellion’s other titles. However, its shortcomings in combat mechanics and occasional technical flaws hold it back from reaching its full potential. Players drawn to deep storytelling and immersive world-building will find much to appreciate, but those seeking refined action mechanics may find themselves a tad frustrated at times.

Ultimately, Atomfall is an ambitious title that excels in atmosphere and narrative depth while struggling in certain gameplay areas. It offers an engaging journey through a hauntingly reimagined Britain, but players should be prepared to overlook some rough edges. With some refinements to combat and quest design, it could stand among the best in its genre, but even in its current form, it’s a worthwhile experience for fans of narrative-driven survival games.

Score: 7.8/10