New Game “Sprawl” Combines Elements of Killzone, Titanfall, F.E.A.R., and Doom
Sprawl, a new game developed by MAETH and released on August 23 on Steam, is being described as a “hardcore retro FPS set in an endless cyberpunk metropolis.” The game combines the gloomy atmosphere of Killzone with the gameplay features of Titanfall, F.E.A.R., and Doom, while also drawing inspiration from the 1995 anime Ghost in the Shell.
Sprawl offers a fast-paced shooter experience with unique gameplay mechanics that include wall-running and bullet time combat. Players are immersed in intense shootouts in arenas reminiscent of Doom, complete with the visual aesthetic of Killzone. The enemies in the game resemble Helghast soldiers from Killzone who have been combined with other elements.
The combat in Sprawl requires players to employ bullet time, a feature reminiscent of F.E.A.R., to enhance their aim and deal with surrounding threats. The game aims to provide players with the fantasy of being a super soldier facing insurmountable challenges and relying on wits and physical enhancements to come out victorious. The waves of enemies can feel endless, requiring players to maintain a rhythm of acrobatic moves and strategic use of bullet time.
Sprawl’s combat elements, including ammo, slide distance, jumps, wall-running, and bullet time, are all balanced to provide a challenging but rewarding experience. Players must rely on their skill and execution to succeed, rather than relying solely on features such as wall running.
The game’s visual style, inspired by the original Killzone, features dark and oppressive environments that create a sense of sustained dread. However, this aesthetic also serves to enhance the fast-paced action by directing the player’s attention to the combat rather than distracting from it.
While Sprawl’s gameplay has been well received overall, there are still some areas that could be improved. Some environments can feel restrictive and punishing for movement, and the enemy AI could be more dynamic. Players have also expressed a desire for a more substantial melee option and options to customize the HUD and turn off subtitles. Despite these issues, players have found the game to be a thrilling and enjoyable experience.
Sprawl has received positive reviews and has been praised as one of the best games of the year so far. Players are looking forward to future updates and exploring higher difficulty levels. The game has also been optimized for the Steam Deck, with players reporting great performance and appreciating the convenience of rear buttons for gameplay.
