Killing Floor 3 on PlayStation 5 arrives as a faithful successor to the franchise’s signature blend of gory cooperative action and wave-based FPS combat, but while it builds confidently on familiar foundations, its evolution is cautious. Set in a grim cyberpunk future where the Nightfall resistance fights to stop Horzine’s grotesque experiments, the game offers a satisfying combat loop that fans of the series will instantly recognize and appreciate. However, those hoping for more innovation may find themselves underwhelmed by the safe design choices, even if it’s a very polished game.
Gameplay remains at the heart of the experience, with tight shooting mechanics and a visceral, satisfying impact to every weapon. Whether using firearms, explosives, or melee gear, the sheer variety of tools and the upgraded dismemberment system offer plenty of gruesome feedback. The new M.E.A.T. system has been improved for a more detailed display of carnage, something that stands out especially in the higher difficulties and more chaotic matches. Unfortunately, the game’s combat can start to feel repetitive in longer sessions, as most of the mission objectives still boil down to surviving successive waves and defeating bosses that don’t deviate far from established patterns.
Co-op remains the primary draw, with support for up to six players. The interplay between classes and character loadouts encourages strategy and teamwork, and the progression system – bolstered by weapon mods and skill trees – adds a meaningful sense of growth. That said, the balance between classes still needs some fine-tuning, with certain roles feeling overpowered while others struggle to contribute meaningfully, especially at lower levels. AI enemies show some noticeable improvements in terms of pathfinding and aggression, but they aren’t always consistent, and their behavior can sometimes feel more reactive than strategic.
The game’s visuals lean into a dark, high-contrast cyberpunk aesthetic that complements its tone. Levels are atmospheric and often feature interactive traps and hazards that add tactical variety to encounters. However, the art direction doesn’t always feel cohesive, and some of the environments – while technically solid – lack the visual distinction or flair to make them truly memorable. On PS5, performance is generally smooth with a stable framerate, but occasional dips and texture pop-in were noted, particularly during heavy firefights.
Audio design deserves praise for both its haunting ambient music and satisfyingly punchy sound effects in combat. Weapon feedback is excellent, and the shrieks of the various Zeds are suitably unsettling. However, voice acting in the campaign is serviceable at best, with some performances coming off as flat or lacking conviction. There’s also a sense that the game could have leaned further into narrative-driven content – especially for solo players – since the focus remains almost entirely on repeatable missions rather than a story-led experience that draws you in.
In the end, Killing Floor 3 delivers more of what the series does best: gory, fast-paced co-op action with a solid gameplay loop. It’s polished and entertaining, especially in multiplayer, but it doesn’t quite rise to the level of a reinvention. With stronger narrative elements, better solo integration, and more varied mission design, it could have gone beyond fan service. As it stands, it’s a competent and fun sequel that plays it a little too safe, even if it’s the best that the series has ever been.
Score: 7.8/10
Press Play Media 