Back 4 Blood
" Thrilling cooperative FPS with strategic card system and polished gunplay but repetitive loops "
Back 4 Blood Review
Back 4 Blood is a cooperative zombie shooter developed by Turtle Rock Studios, marketed as a spiritual successor to Left 4 Dead (L4D). While many players express disappointment when comparing it directly to L4D2, the game stands on its own as a fun, replayable experience especially with friends. The introduction of a card system adds strategic depth and variety to gameplay, although it can feel complicated and grind-heavy for some. Gunplay is generally praised as satisfying and modern, with improved weapon feel over L4D2.
However, the game struggles with technical issues such as bugs, matchmaking failures, and AI bot behavior, which some players find frustrating. Content droughts and repetitiveness in gameplay loops also dampen long-term appeal. Despite these flaws, the game has improved since launch, gaining positive reception for its graphics, performance (including on Steam Deck), and cooperative fun. Many recommend purchasing it only on discount due to its mixed reception and content limitations.
Highlights
Players appreciate the game's fun and engaging cooperative gameplay, especially with friends. The card system introduces strategic customization, enhancing replayability. Graphics are modern and polished, delivering satisfying visual effects and weapon feedback. The gunplay feels tight and enjoyable, borrowing elements from popular FPS games. The game runs well on various platforms, including mid-tier PCs and Steam Deck. The character interactions and personalities add charm, and expansions have revitalized interest. Overall, it provides a solid zombie shooter experience distinct from but inspired by Left 4 Dead.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the game's repetitiveness, with players often cycling through similar objectives and zombie encounters. The card system, while innovative, can be confusing and grind-heavy, alienating casual players. AI-controlled bots are frequently described as ineffective or annoying. Technical issues such as matchmaking failures, bugs, and optimization problems persist. Some players find the story and dialogue weak or cringe-worthy. The multiplayer community is declining, making online play difficult without friends. Additionally, the game is considered overpriced at full price, with many recommending purchase only during deep discounts.
Pros
- • Engaging cooperative gameplay especially enjoyable with friends in multiplayer sessions.
- • Card system adds strategic depth and variety to player builds and playstyles.
- • Modern and polished graphics with satisfying weapon recoil and visual effects.
- • Gunplay feels tight and responsive, improved over Left 4 Dead series.
- • Runs smoothly on mid-tier PCs and performs well on Steam Deck handheld.
- • Character personalities and voice lines add charm despite occasional repetitiveness.
- • Expansions and updates have added meaningful content and replayability.
Cons
- • Repetitive gameplay loop with similar objectives and zombie encounters.
- • Card system can be confusing, grind-heavy, and overwhelming for casual players.
- • AI-controlled bots often behave poorly and detract from gameplay experience.
- • Technical issues including bugs, matchmaking failures, and optimization problems.
- • Multiplayer population is low, causing long queue times and difficulty finding matches.
- • Storyline and character dialogue considered weak or cringe-worthy by some players.
- • Full price is considered too high; best bought on deep discounts or sales.
Rating Criteria
Back 4 Blood is a thrilling cooperative first-person shooter from the creators of the critically acclaimed Left 4 Dead franchise. Experience the intense 4 player co-op narrative campaign, competitive multiplayer as human or Ridden, and frenetic gameplay that keeps you in the action.
