Selaco

Selaco is a standout FPS that masterfully blends classic shooter elements with modern gameplay and immersive sim mechanics. Players praise its fast-paced, visceral gunplay, challenging AI, and highly interactive environments that encourage exploration and experimentation. The game’s level design is intricate, featuring secrets, upgrades, and a continuous world with backtracking, lending a metroidvania feel. Combat is intense and strategic, rewarding smart movement and weapon customization. The art style combines retro and stylized visuals with detailed, atmospheric settings complemented by an excellent soundtrack. Despite being in Early Access, it feels polished and content-rich, often compared favorably to classics like F.E.A.R., Half-Life 2, and System Shock 2.

However, some players note issues with confusing level navigation, sparse enemy density in certain areas, and occasional difficulty spikes due to bullet sponge enemies and scarce ammo. The map system lacks vertical clarity, and tutorial hints are fleeting. While the story is subtle and environmental, some desire more narrative depth and clarity. Overall, Selaco is highly recommended for fans of the genre, with promising ongoing development.

Highlights

Players especially praise Selaco's fast, satisfying gunplay and challenging, intelligent enemy AI that evolves over time. The highly interactive environments and detailed level design create an immersive experience reminiscent of classic shooters and immersive sims. The game’s unique blend of retro and stylized graphics pushes the GZDoom engine impressively, while the soundtrack and sound design enhance the tense atmosphere. Exploration and secret hunting are rewarding, supported by weapon upgrades and alternate fire modes. The game’s pacing balances combat and exploration well, and the developers’ passion shines through frequent updates and quality-of-life improvements.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include confusing level layouts and a sometimes slow or meandering start that may deter new players. Some find the enemy density low in exploration sections, leading to less engaging pacing. The map system lacks verticality indication, complicating navigation in multi-level areas. Ammo scarcity and bullet sponge enemies on higher difficulties frustrate some players. Tutorial hints are brief and hard to revisit. A few note that the story is minimal and told mostly through environmental cues, leaving some wanting more narrative depth. Minor technical issues like FPS drops and gamma settings were also mentioned.