Tag: FPS

  • Ultrakill Update Boosts Steam Players to 71K

    Ultrakill Update Boosts Steam Players to 71K

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Update Highlights: The Layer 8: Fraud update introduces four new levels, featuring intricate designs, fresh aesthetics, and new enemies and bosses.

    2. Player Base Growth: The update has significantly increased player numbers, reaching up to 71,785 concurrent players, nearly tripling previous counts.

    3. Performance Considerations: Players on lower-end PCs may experience performance issues due to complex designs; enabling options like Simple Explosions is recommended.

    4. Current Discounts: Ultrakill is available at a discounted price on platforms like Humble Store and Steam, making it a great time to try the game.

    5. Replay Value: The game offers replayability through extra levels, secret stages, and an endless survival mode called “The Cyber Grind.”

    Ultrakill, or ULTRAKILL as it’s stylized, has emerged as the top single-player FPS game on Steam after the release of its Layer 8: Fraud update, which introduces four new levels. This update has garnered significant pre-release excitement, more than any previous layers (which are worlds made up of four levels excluding secrets or “Encore” stages). The heightened anticipation is due to the intricate level design and geometry put into these new stages. As players navigate through layers of Hell, each new layer presents a fresh aesthetic along with new foes, bosses, and gameplay mechanics. The Fraud layer, which is the second to last, stands out as the most intense, featuring levels with non-Euclidean designs, gravity tricks, mirror worlds, and additional surprises.

    Rising Player Numbers

    Up until now, Ultrakill has maintained a somewhat small fanbase. Although player counts would occasionally spike to around 28,076 during updates, the launch of Layer 8: Fraud has nearly tripled that number, reaching up to 71,785 players. The new levels are both challenging and mind-bending, even for seasoned players of the genre, and overall feedback has been positive. However, some users pointed out performance issues; despite the game’s retro PlayStation 1-style graphics, the complex designs and new stage elements can lead to a significant increase in particle effects and models being rendered simultaneously. For those using lower-end or mid-tier PCs, it is advisable to turn on performance options like Simple Explosions during your initial playthrough of Layer 8: Fraud.

    An Excellent Time to Play

    That said, it’s a fantastic moment to try Ultrakill if you’re interested. The game is currently available at a discounted price on both the Humble Store and Steam as of now. After completing the existing levels, players can find a lot of replay value by unlocking the “Prime Sanctum” extra levels by achieving a P-Rank in each level, along with secret stages that explore different genres and hidden weapons throughout the game. Furthermore, there’s an endless survival mode known as “The Cyber Grind,” where players can challenge themselves in a customizable arena against endless waves of tougher and tougher enemies.

    For a game that was once referred to as “Devil May Quake” due to its strong influences from Devil May Cry and Quake, Ultrakill is carving out its own identity in the FPS landscape. If you’ve been searching for something fresh in the FPS genre and enjoy the fast-paced, high-energy gunplay reminiscent of classic “boomer shooters” like Quake or Doom, Ultrakill might just be the game for you.

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  • Splitgate 2 Unlaunches as Player Count Plummets 93% Ahead of 2026 Relaunch

    Splitgate 2 Unlaunches as Player Count Plummets 93% Ahead of 2026 Relaunch

    Key Takeaways

    1. 1047 Games “unlaunched” Splitgate 2, reverting it to beta status after a problematic release with low player numbers and mixed community reactions.
    2. The launch faced significant issues, including technical problems, excessive microtransactions, and a lack of the original game’s appeal.
    3. Player numbers drastically declined from 25,785 to 1,839 concurrent players, a 93% drop in just one month.
    4. The game received 18,260 reviews on Steam with a 61% positive rating, compared to the original’s 91% rating, largely due to community frustrations over missing features and pricing.
    5. 1047 Games plans to focus on a major overhaul for a relaunch in 2026, addressing monetization, gameplay mechanics, and community feedback.

    To the astonishment of many, 1047 Games has made the surprising decision to “unlaunch” Splitgate 2, their eagerly awaited FPS sequel, reverting it to “Beta Status” after a problematic release on June 6, 2025.

    In a frank message posted on Splitgate 2’s official X account and Steam page, co-founders Ian Proulx and Nicholas Bagamian explained that the choice was driven by lower-than-expected player numbers and mixed reactions from the community. Additionally, the studio revealed that they had to let go of 45 employees, which is around 28% of their team, and announced that servers would be taken offline in August. These layoffs are due to the studio’s decision to refocus its resources for a complete game overhaul.

    A Troubled Launch

    To give some background, Splitgate 2’s launch faced challenges from the beginning. The game suffered from numerous technical problems, an overemphasis on microtransactions, and a noticeable absence of the “polished, portal-filled mayhem” that made the first game a success in 2019.

    Data from SteamDB highlights a drastic decline in player numbers. Once boasting 25,785 concurrent players last month, the game has now plummeted to a peak of only 1,839 in a 24-hour period. This represents a staggering 93% decrease in player count in just one month.

    Community Backlash

    Currently, the game has amassed 18,260 reviews on Steam, holding a 61% positive rating. In contrast, the original game received 91% positive feedback out of 111,737 reviews. This drop in approval seems to stem from player frustration. Many gamers voiced their displeasure over the absence of a ranked mode and the introduction of an absurd $80 cosmetic bundle, which was later reduced to $40 due to the overwhelming negative response it generated.

    Acknowledging their missteps, 1047 Games took responsibility, admitting they rushed certain features, made “boneheaded mistakes,” and acknowledged that they “bit off more than they could chew.”

    Future Plans for Splitgate 2

    Regarding the “unlaunch” of Splitgate 2, the game will still be playable, but it will revert back to beta status. 1047 Games has stated that they are focusing 95% of their resources on a significant overhaul planned for a relaunch in 2026. Their objectives include streamlining monetization, introducing additional portal structures, devising a better progression system, and integrating community feedback along with necessary bug fixes.

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  • Fast-Paced Cyberpunk FPS Demo: Win $1,000 Speedrun Prize

    Fast-Paced Cyberpunk FPS Demo: Win $1,000 Speedrun Prize

    Key Takeaways

    1. Metal Eden is a sci-fi FPS that combines elements from games like Mirror’s Edge, Doom, and Metroid.
    2. Players control Hyper Unit Aksa, who uses advanced cybernetic skills and agility in a post-apocalyptic setting.
    3. The game features diverse combat mechanics, including wall-running, dashing, and jetpack flying.
    4. Aksa can transform into an “Armored Ramball” to tackle tough enemies, enhancing gameplay variety.
    5. The game launches on May 6, 2025, on Steam, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5, with a free demo available and a $1,000 speedrun challenge.

    Metal Eden is described as a “thrilling sci-fi FPS” that merges aspects from iconic games. It draws on the parkour and agility seen in Mirror’s Edge and Ghostrunner, the rapid action and shooting mechanics from Doom, and even includes a version of Metroid’s Morph Ball. Set in a post-apocalyptic sci-fi universe, it is teeming with cyberpunk visuals, creatures, and advanced weaponry, all accompanied by a pounding dubstep soundtrack.

    Campaign Overview

    The single-player experience is focused on a mission where players are thrown into a dangerous task to save a group of survivors trapped in an orbital city, which was supposed to be humanity’s last hope. Similar to Ghostrunner, players control a soldier known as Hyper Unit Aksa, who possesses augmented cybernetic skills and increased agility. Combat and movement feature a range of actions, including wall-running, dashing, grappling, jetpack flying, and leaping over barriers.

    Weapon Variety

    With the emphasis on shooting in Metal Eden, it’s no wonder that the arsenal is diverse, including various types of firearms and elemental effects. Taking a cue from Metroid, when enemies become challenging, Aksa can change into what the developers term an “Armored Ramball” to confront formidable foes.

    Release Details

    Metal Eden is set to officially launch on Steam, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 (currently priced at $399.99 at Best Buy) on May 6, 2025. However, players can try a free demo on Steam. The creators have teamed up with Speedrun.com to present a challenge, offering a $1,000 reward for the player who can complete the demo in the quickest time.

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  • Greatest FPS Game Ever Only $1.99 in Limited-Time Steam Deal

    Greatest FPS Game Ever Only $1.99 in Limited-Time Steam Deal

    Key Takeaways

    1. Doom is currently 90% off on Steam, priced at $1.99 instead of $19.99.
    2. The game revitalized its genre with fast-paced combat and a focus on movement and aggression.
    3. Doom has over 200,000 reviews on Steam, with a 94% positive rating, showcasing its lasting appeal.
    4. The current deal includes all updates and three DLC packs, enhancing gameplay and replay value.
    5. The discount lasts until March 20, making it an excellent opportunity for both new and returning players.

    If you’re looking for a great bargain on a fast-paced shooter game, now is the time to act. Doom, a modern first-person shooter that has become a classic, is currently 90% off on Steam, lowering the price to only $1.99 from its regular price of $19.99.

    A Game That Changed the Genre

    When it was first released, this game really brought new life to its franchise with its quick combat, unyielding enemy encounters, and a straightforward approach to shooting. Players are thrown into thrilling battles where the main focus is on movement and aggression to stay alive. Forget hiding; you’ll be sprinting, leaping, and smashing through countless foes with a collection of powerful weapons.

    Timeless Appeal

    Even years after its debut, Doom remains one of the finest in its category, boasting more than 200,000 reviews on Steam and a whopping 94% positive rating. The current deal includes all updates released after launch, which enhance multiplayer experiences and introduce new game modes. Additionally, it comes with three DLC packs that offer extra maps, weapons, and arcade-like modes, boosting the game’s replay value.

    Unmissable Opportunity

    Whether you’ve been a fan for years or are just jumping into the series, this is a fantastic chance to grab Doom for your collection. This discount lasts until March 20, making it one of the lowest prices ever seen for this title. If you want a top-tier FPS at an unbeatable price, this is your moment before the cost goes back up. You can also check out our benchmarks for the game linked here.

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  • Epic Immersive Sim on Steam: 80% Discount, High Replay Value

    Epic Immersive Sim on Steam: 80% Discount, High Replay Value

    Key Takeaways

    1. Prey is an immersive sim that is currently available on Steam with a 90% discount, including all extra content like the Mooncrash DLC.
    2. The game is a first-person shooter (FPS) where players often need to use strategies other than shooting due to limited ammo and powerful enemies.
    3. Each playthrough of Prey can reveal new aspects and strategies, making it a unique experience every time.
    4. The setting is a space station called Talos I, where players explore various areas and encounter terrifying experiences.
    5. Players can float in zero gravity and engage with survivors, learn their stories, and complete side quests throughout the game.

    Even though Prey was not very well-received by critics when it first came out, this immersive sim is a gem that lovers of the genre shouldn’t miss. Right now, it’s on Steam with a massive 90% discount, and this includes all the extra content that was released after its launch, like the Mooncrash DLC which introduces a Roguelike element to the gameplay.

    Gameplay Experience

    At its core, Prey is an FPS title. However, you’ll find out pretty quickly that shooting isn’t the best solution for every problem. Early on, weapons don’t pack much punch, ammo is limited, and enemies are everywhere, prompting players to seek out different strategies and avoid fights when they can. There are numerous ways to experience Prey, and every playthrough can uncover new aspects that you might have overlooked previously.

    Setting and Exploration

    The game takes place on Talos I, a space station that orbits Earth. As you move forward in the game, you’ll unlock additional areas of the station and encounter new terrifying experiences. Yes, there are parts where you have to float through zero gravity, both inside and outside of Talos I. Alongside the continuous waves of foes, you can discover the remnants of a mostly operational space station, meet survivors, learn their stories, and even take on various side-quests to keep you engaged.

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  • New Bioshock-Inspired FPS Demo Trending on Steam

    New Bioshock-Inspired FPS Demo Trending on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nostalgic Influence: Twisted Tower draws strong inspiration from the Bioshock universe while establishing its own identity through a dark narrative and original gameplay features.

    2. Heartfelt Storyline: Players control Tiny, who is grappling with PTSD in 1950s London after his beloved Charlotte disappears, leading him to a mysterious resort.

    3. Unique Gameplay Mechanics: The game features five distinct levels with unique pathways, hidden secrets, and a variety of unusual weapons, enhancing the combat experience.

    4. Weapon Enhancement: Players can upgrade their weapons using coins found throughout the levels and utilize gadgets for improved mobility and combat techniques.

    5. Engaging Mystery: The story unfolds gradually, revealing the relationship between Tiny and Charlotte, with a mix of bizarre enemies and a haunting voice guiding the experience.

    Twisted Tower is a nostalgic first-person shooter that draws strong influence from the Bioshock universe while carving out its own identity with a dark story and original gameplay features. You take on the role of Tiny, who appears to be dealing with PTSD in 1950s London.

    A Heartbreaking Journey

    Tiny’s beloved, Charlotte, has mysteriously disappeared, leaving a note stating she has found another person. Heartbroken, Tiny receives an invitation to a peculiar show. This leads him to a strange and deserted resort, where the host seems to possess more knowledge than he reveals.

    Unique Gameplay Experience

    The engaging demo reveals five distinct levels filled with unique pathways and hidden secrets. The combat feels rewarding, featuring an array of unusual weapons, including mallets, rubber bullet pistols, and a dart-powered Tommy Gun. Players can enhance these weapons using coins scattered across the levels, and some gadgets help with dashing, grappling, and jumping.

    Unraveling the Mystery

    As you progress, the story gradually uncovers what might have transpired between Tiny and Charlotte. An insane voice taunts you while you navigate the resort, and the voice acting is believable, although somewhat monotonous. Enemies include bizarre mascots and aggressive telephones that charge at you. Overall, it’s quite an enjoyable experience. You can try the demo on Steam.

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