Wolfenstein: Youngblood

Developer: MachineGames
Release: Jul 25th 2019
Platforms:
Action
Coop
Gunplay
Bullet Sponge
Grinding
Bugs
Wolfenstein: Youngblood Poster

" Fast-paced action shooter with smooth gunplay and co-op fun but repetitive missions "

Wolfenstein: Youngblood Review

Wolfenstein: Youngblood marks a significant departure from the traditional Wolfenstein formula, incorporating RPG elements and a cooperative focus that has divided the fanbase. Players control Jess and Soph Blazkowicz in a fast-paced shooter with character and weapon upgrades, but many find the gameplay monotonous and the enemies frustratingly bullet-spongy.

Critics and players alike note a lackluster storyline with underdeveloped characters and cheesy dialogue, which pales in comparison to previous entries like New Colossus. Technical issues such as bugs, crashes, and problematic enemy AI further detract from the experience. Despite its flaws, some appreciate the game's solid gunplay and optimization, especially when played cooperatively with friends. However, the grind-heavy progression system and limited replayability make it a less satisfying entry in the franchise overall.

Highlights

The game offers fast-paced, nonstop action shooting with smooth gunplay and satisfying weapon recoil.

Its optimization is solid, running without input lag or stuttering.

Cooperative gameplay enhances fun, making it enjoyable with a friend.

The RPG-style upgrades and character progression add depth for those who appreciate grinding.

Visually, it is competent though not exceptional, maintaining decent graphics quality.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include bullet sponge enemies that require excessive hits to kill, making combat frustrating.

The storyline is weak, with poorly written dialogue and unlikable characters that fail to engage players emotionally.

Technical problems such as bugs, crashes, and erratic enemy behavior negatively impact gameplay.

Progression is grind-heavy and can feel unrewarding, with locked map areas and repetitive mission design.

The game’s replayability is limited, and the co-op player base is sparse, forcing solo players to rely on AI partners.

Pros

  • Smooth and satisfying gunplay with varied weapon recoil and sound effects.
  • Well-optimized performance with minimal input lag or stuttering.
  • Cooperative gameplay enhances enjoyment when played with friends.
  • RPG elements add depth through upgrades and character progression.
  • Fast-paced action keeps moment-to-moment combat engaging.
  • Open map design allows revisiting unlocked areas freely.
  • Achievements and collectibles provide extra content for grinders.

Cons

  • Enemies are bullet sponges, requiring excessive hits to kill.
  • Storyline is weak with cheesy dialogue and unlikable characters.
  • Numerous bugs and glitches cause crashes and gameplay interruptions.
  • Grinding for XP and gold feels unrewarding and tedious.
  • Limited replayability due to repetitive mission design.
  • Sparse online player base makes co-op matchmaking difficult.
  • Certain map areas locked during replays, blocking loot access.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Wolfenstein: Youngblood is the first modern co-op Wolfenstein adventure. Team up with a friend or play solo as one of BJ Blazkowicz’s twin daughters and wield a powerful arsenal of new weapons, gadgets, and abilities to liberate Paris from the Nazis.

Release Date Jul 25th 2019
Publisher Bethesda Softworks
Developer MachineGames, Arkane Studios
Required Age 17+
Platforms

User Reviews

Mixed (5,646)
45% Positive 55% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
69