
Stepping into the world of Redfall feels like entering a twisted Americana nightmare. Arkane Austin, the studio behind Prey and Dishonored, has crafted an experience that blends their signature immersive sim DNA with heart-pounding co-op action against hordes of bloodsuckers. The quaint island town of Redfall, Massachusetts, once a haven for summer vacations, now lies under siege by a legion of vampires who have plunged the community into perpetual darkness.
The vampires aren’t your typical sparkly blood-drinking fiends. These creatures are terrifyingly diverse, ranging from the agile and swift “Shrike” to the monstrous “Bloodbags” that resemble bloated sacks of pulsating flesh. Each vampire type possesses unique abilities and weaknesses, demanding strategic thinking and careful planning when facing them in combat.
The game throws you into the fray as one of four specialized survivors:
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Remy: A sharp-tongued robotics expert who utilizes her trusty robot companion “Argo” for reconnaissance and distractions.
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Layla: A biomedical engineer blessed (or cursed) with telekinetic abilities, capable of manipulating objects and unleashing psychic blasts.
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Devinder: A conspiracy theorist armed with a barrage of improvised weaponry, including UV-powered crossbows and traps that utilize sound to disorient the undead.
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Jacob: An ex-military sharpshooter haunted by his past who wields deadly precision with firearms, augmented by spectral vision that reveals enemy locations through walls.
You can team up with friends online or play solo, switching between characters to tackle the vampire threat from different angles. The open world design allows for a significant degree of freedom. Explore Redfall’s abandoned streets and overgrown neighborhoods, uncover hidden lore through audio logs and environmental storytelling, and take on a variety of side missions that flesh out the town’s tragic history.
Redfall excels in its atmospheric presentation. The once-vibrant town is now shrouded in an eerie twilight, with shadows stretching long and whispers of the undead echoing through deserted alleyways. Arkane Austin masterfully employs lighting effects to create a palpable sense of unease, forcing you to constantly scan your surroundings for signs of lurking danger.
The game’s soundtrack further enhances the unsettling ambiance. Eerie synth melodies intertwine with melancholic piano pieces, creating a haunting soundscape that perfectly complements the gothic horror aesthetic.
Gameplay Mechanics: A Blend of Familiar and Innovative
Redfall borrows elements from established FPS titles but injects them with its unique flavor. The gunplay feels satisfyingly weighty, encouraging tactical aiming and positioning. While you can rely on brute force against weaker vampires, taking down tougher foes often requires exploiting their weaknesses or using environmental hazards to your advantage.
Layla’s telekinetic powers add a layer of strategic depth. She can lift objects to create makeshift barricades, hurl debris at enemies, or even control the environment itself by manipulating electrical wiring and machinery. Devinder’s inventive gadgets, like his UV-powered crossbow that weakens vampires and his “vampire repellent” sound traps, encourage creative problem-solving.
Jacob’s spectral vision allows him to see through walls and anticipate enemy movements, making him a valuable asset for stealthy approaches. The game encourages experimenting with different character combinations and discovering synergies between their abilities.
The Verdict: A Bloody Good Time
Redfall is not without its flaws. Some players might find the open world somewhat sparse in terms of activities, and the pacing can feel uneven at times. However, these minor blemishes are overshadowed by the game’s strengths. Its atmospheric presentation, engaging co-op gameplay, and diverse cast of characters make Redfall a truly memorable horror experience.
If you’re looking for a game that combines tense action with strategic depth and a healthy dose of gothic charm, then Redfall is definitely worth sinking your teeth into.
Table: Comparing Redfall to Other Popular Horror Games
Feature | Redfall | Resident Evil Village | Left 4 Dead 2 |
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Setting | Open world island town | Isolated village | Urban and rural environments |
Enemies | Diverse vampires with unique abilities | Lycans, zombies, and mutated creatures | Zombies and special infected |
Gameplay | FPS with co-op focus | Survival horror with emphasis on puzzle-solving | Cooperative zombie shooter |
Atmosphere | Gothic horror with a focus on tension and atmosphere | Classic survival horror with jump scares and gore | Fast-paced action with moments of humor |