Atomfall
" Immersive action-adventure with rich British post-apocalyptic world but clunky melee combat "
Atomfall Review
Atomfall is a narrative-driven survival-action game set in an alternate history version of northern England after a nuclear disaster. Players explore a richly detailed, atmospheric world filled with mystery, environmental storytelling, and a strong British cultural vibe. The game features open-ended objectives, multiple endings, and a mix of combat, stealth, and exploration mechanics. While it offers a compelling story and intriguing world, Atomfall struggles with inconsistent gameplay elements, including clunky melee combat, limited inventory space, and frustrating enemy respawn mechanics.
Many players appreciate the game's immersive storytelling, unique setting, and the absence of quest markers which encourages organic exploration. However, criticisms focus on its lack of polish, underdeveloped stealth system, repetitive enemy AI, and a somewhat unsatisfying ending. Despite these flaws, the game provides a decent 15-20 hour experience with replay value through branching storylines and DLC content. It is recommended mainly to players who enjoy exploration and narrative over refined mechanics.
Highlights
Players praise Atomfall's atmospheric and detailed British post-apocalyptic setting, which combines serene countryside with a mysterious, contaminated zone. The storytelling is immersive and well woven through notes and environmental clues, rewarding exploration without quest markers.
Gunplay is generally regarded as solid and satisfying, and the game offers multiple endings and branching storylines. The inclusion of quirky British humor and cultural references adds charm. The DLC expands the narrative and gameplay, enhancing the overall experience. The minimal HUD and journal system are also appreciated for aiding immersion.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include clunky and unsatisfying melee combat, with many players preferring stealth or ranged combat due to melee's limitations. The enemy AI and respawn mechanics frustrate players, with enemies often respawning too quickly and unpredictably, breaking immersion. Inventory management is frequently described as restrictive and cumbersome, impacting exploration and trading.
The stealth system is considered underdeveloped and sometimes unfair, with enemies spotting players instantly. Some players find the story leaves too many unanswered questions, and the endings are viewed as bland or unsatisfying. Technical issues such as occasional graphics bugs and crashes also detract from the experience.
Pros
- • Immersive British post-apocalyptic setting with atmospheric environments.
- • Engaging narrative told through exploration and environmental storytelling.
- • Multiple endings and branching storylines enhance replayability.
- • Solid and tactile gunplay with varied weapon options.
- • No quest markers encourage organic exploration and discovery.
- • Minimal HUD and journal system improve immersion.
- • DLC content adds meaningful expansion to story and gameplay.
Cons
- • Clunky and unsatisfying melee combat mechanics.
- • Frustrating enemy AI and frequent respawn break immersion.
- • Restrictive and cumbersome inventory system limits exploration.
- • Underdeveloped stealth system with unfair enemy detection.
- • Story leaves many questions unanswered and endings feel bland.
- • Technical issues including occasional crashes and graphics bugs.
- • Limited enemy variety reduces combat engagement.
Rating Criteria
A nuclear disaster has left an area of Britain in tatters. Atomfall, a new survival-action game, will see you explore, scavenge, craft, barter and fight your way through beautifully recreated scenery in search of answers.