ULTRAKILL

Developer: Arsi "Hakita" Patala
Release: Sep 3rd 2020
Platforms:
Action
Indie
Early Access
Addictive
Fast-paced
Challenging
Retro-style
Minimal-story
ULTRAKILL Poster

" Fast-paced retro FPS with fluid combat and varied weapons but high difficulty and bugs "

ULTRAKILL Review

ULTRAKILL is widely praised as an exhilarating, fast-paced first-person shooter that combines retro aesthetics with modern gameplay mechanics. Players appreciate its fluid movement system, intense combat, and satisfying parry mechanics, which create an addicting and skill-based experience. The game features a variety of imaginative levels and enemies, alongside a compelling soundtrack that enhances the adrenaline-fueled atmosphere.

Despite being in Early Access, ULTRAKILL is recognized for its completeness and polish, with ongoing updates improving visuals and adding content. The community is generally supportive, catering to different play styles and skill levels. While the storyline is simple and mostly conveyed through environmental storytelling and lore, it complements the gameplay well. Overall, ULTRAKILL is considered a masterpiece by many, offering hours of challenging, rewarding gameplay for shooter enthusiasts.

Highlights

Players overwhelmingly praise ULTRAKILL's fast, fluid movement and combat mechanics, which offer a high skill ceiling and rewarding gameplay loops. The game's graphics evoke nostalgic retro style with a unique, colorful design that stands out. The soundtrack and audio design receive high marks for matching the game's intense pace. Additionally, the variety of weapons, enemies, and secret content enriches the experience. The community is noted as positive and inclusive, supporting players across difficulty levels.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the game's steep difficulty curve that can frustrate newcomers and casual players, especially during later stages and boss fights. Some players mention occasional crashes or bugs, though these are generally minor and infrequent. There are also humorous but consistent requests for a "sex update" or more mature content involving robots, reflecting a quirky community in-joke rather than a serious flaw. A few players find the storyline minimal and desire deeper narrative elements.

Pros

  • Fast-paced, fluid movement system enhances gameplay excitement and skill expression.
  • Satisfying combat with diverse weapons and unique parry mechanics.
  • Imaginative and varied level design keeps gameplay fresh and engaging.
  • Outstanding retro-inspired graphics with vibrant, distinctive art style.
  • Energetic and fitting soundtrack intensifies the game’s adrenaline rush.
  • Addictive gameplay loop that rewards mastery and speedrunning.
  • Supportive community accommodating different skill levels and playstyles.

Cons

  • High difficulty may discourage casual or less skilled players.
  • Occasional crashes and minor bugs reported by some users.
  • Lack of a deep or complex storyline for players seeking narrative depth.
  • Community jokes about missing mature content may confuse newcomers.
  • Some players find the grind for perfect ranks frustrating.
  • Certain boss fights can feel punishing and repetitive.
  • Game’s humor and tone may not appeal to all audiences.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

ULTRAKILL is a fast-paced ultraviolent retro FPS combining the skill-based style scoring from character action games with unadulterated carnage inspired by the best shooters of the '90s. Rip apart your foes with varied destructive weapons and shower in their blood to regain your health.

Release Date Sep 3rd 2020
Publisher New Blood Interactive
Developer Arsi "Hakita" Patala
Platforms

User Reviews

Overwhelmingly Positive (111,421)
98% Positive 2% Negative