Arkane Studios, renowned for its thought-provoking games with intriguing twists, has recently released Redfall, a vampire-hunting, occult co-op shooter. However, this latest offering from the studio falls short of expectations, deviating from Arkane’s track record of delivering memorable and unique experiences. Redfall suffers from clunky systems, lackluster gunplay, and persistent performance issues, failing to live up to its potential as another standout title in Arkane’s portfolio.
The opening mission of Redfall sets a disappointing tone, with uninspired environments reminiscent of mediocre shooters from the early 2010s and bullet-sponge enemies akin to the worst parts of Borderlands 3. This underwhelming experience left players unimpressed and yearning for more.
Despite Redfall’s shortcomings, co-op horror enthusiasts need not despair. Another title that may fulfill their desires is available on Xbox Game Pass – Warhammer 40,000: Darktide, developed by Fatshark Games.
Darktide, set in the gothic sci-fi horror of the 41st Millennium, immerses players in a hellscape of occult horror. As a group of convicts pressed into service by the authoritarian Imperium of humanity, players confront a cult of Plague God worshipers, hordes of zombies, and powerful mutants. While Darktide also has its flaws, such as limited class variation and a thin plot beyond its stellar opening, it excels in delivering incredible combat fundamentals that Redfall sorely lacks.
The combat in Darktide feels weighty and intense, supported by immersive sound design. From the dramatic and satisfying Bolter, a massive gun firing rocket-propelled shells, to the responsive and versatile Lasgun, the weapons in Darktide offer distinct and tactile experiences, reminiscent of the weight and feel found in Doom Eternal.
By contrast, Redfall’s combat feels dull and uninspiring. Enemies possess excessive health, turning gunfights into monotonous affairs, while the responsiveness and satisfaction of gunfire are lacking. In terms of impactful weapons and combat, even the original Borderlands from 2009 surpasses Redfall.
Darktide’s encounter pacing shines, providing players with moments of respite between frantic, high-pressure engagements that often require difficult decision-making. In contrast, Redfall’s opening fails to ground players in the conflict or establish a wider context. The disjointed narrative and bewildering progression hinder the game’s immersion, leaving players disconnected from the story.
Co-op shooters are notoriously challenging to execute successfully, requiring well-designed levels that deliver a satisfying gameplay loop. While both Redfall and Darktide faced performance issues at launch, Darktide has received substantial improvements through patches, leading to a more stable experience. The key differentiator lies in the gameplay fundamentals, where Darktide excels with its kinetic, responsive, and satisfying mechanics, while Redfall falls short in its current state.
For those seeking a cooperative experience that leaves a lasting impression, Warhammer 40,000: Darktide stands as the superior choice on Xbox Game Pass. Despite its imperfections, Darktide offers smart mission design, immersive environments, and a highly enjoyable selection of weapons, delivering dozens of memorable moments for players and their friends.
