Painkiller

Painkiller (2025) is a cooperative first-person shooter that diverges significantly from the original Painkiller series, adopting gameplay elements reminiscent of Doom Eternal, Vermintide, and Left 4 Dead. Players engage in fast-paced combat with a limited arsenal of two weapons, supported by alt-fire modes and a unique "painkiller" melee weapon that restores resources. The game features three biomes with nine missions total, each concluding with boss fights, and includes a roguelike mode for extended play.

While the graphics are generally well-optimized and visually appealing, the game suffers from repetitive level design, limited weapon variety, and shallow character differentiation. The story is minimal, delivered through in-game dialogue that many find cringeworthy and tonally mismatched.

Multiplayer is mandatory, with bots filling empty slots in solo play, which some players find frustrating. The progression system involves unlocking weapons and tarot cards using in-game currency, but the grind and limited content reduce replay value. Despite these flaws, the combat mechanics and gunplay receive praise for their responsiveness and feel.

Highlights

Players praise Painkiller's fast-paced and responsive gunplay, with satisfying weapon feedback and alt-fire mechanics. The graphics and optimization are noted as strong points, running smoothly even on mid-range hardware. The game's core combat loop and movement—featuring dashes, slides, and grappling—are engaging and enjoyable.

The inclusion of iconic weapons from the original series, modernized with elemental effects and upgrades, adds depth. The soundtrack, featuring metal music, enhances the atmosphere. Offline mode with competent bots allows solo play, and crossplay supports multiplayer accessibility.

Overall, fans of co-op shooters and fast FPS action find the gameplay addictive and fun, especially when played with friends, appreciating the game's attempt to blend classic Painkiller DNA with modern mechanics.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the game’s failure to capture the spirit and atmosphere of the original Painkiller series. The storyline is minimal and delivered through awkward, often cringeworthy dialogue that clashes with the intended dark tone. Content is sparse, with only nine missions and limited enemy and weapon variety, leading to repetitive gameplay.

Players are frustrated by the forced multiplayer setup, where solo players must contend with bots that can be overpowered or uncooperative. The progression system is seen as grind-heavy and unrewarding, with costly unlocks and consumable tarot cards. Visual clutter and poor enemy visibility reduce combat clarity. Several reviews mention bugs, small arena sizes, and lack of meaningful character uniqueness.

Many feel the game is overpriced for its content and recommend waiting for a sale or avoiding it altogether.