VOID/BREAKER: Chaos, Customization, and a Dash of Destruction

A roguelite FPS that makes chaos an art form

Launch Day Larry

In the ever-expanding universe of roguelite FPS games, “VOID/BREAKER” emerges like a comet, blazing a trail of chaos and creativity. Developed by the dynamic duo of Daniel Stubbington and Joe Ford, this game is a testament to what a small team can achieve when they blend destruction mechanics with bullet-hell chaos, all wrapped up in a first-person perspective. It’s like “Titanfall” and “Returnal” had a wild night out and decided to raise a child together.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Destruction

“VOID/BREAKER” doesn’t just throw you into the fray; it catapults you with a grappling hook, a slide, and a prayer. The gameplay is a frenetic dance of bullets, explosions, and environmental destruction that would make even Michael Bay blush. The movement system is as fluid as a jazz solo, with sliding, running, and grappling mechanics that make you feel like a parkour master on a caffeine high. The arenas are vast playgrounds of destruction, where every structure is a potential weapon, and every enemy is a bullet sponge waiting to be popped.

Customization is the name of the game here, with a mod system that lets you turn your weapons into instruments of chaos. Want a gun that shoots bouncing sawblades? Done. How about a rifle that freezes enemies in their tracks? Easy. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination, assuming you can keep track of all the modifiers without needing a spreadsheet. The only downside? Some enemies are tougher than a two-dollar steak, and the bullet-hell mechanics might leave some players feeling like they’re in a dodgeball game with the universe.

Graphics: A Visual Feast

For a game developed by a small team, “VOID/BREAKER” punches well above its weight class in the graphics department. The visuals are stunning, with a cold, simulated world that feels both alien and familiar. It’s like stepping into a digital painting where every pixel is meticulously crafted. The cut-scenes are particularly noteworthy, adding a cinematic flair that enhances the game’s atmosphere.

However, not everything is picture-perfect. Some graphical effects, like the electricity mod, can cause significant lag, turning your smooth experience into a slideshow. And while the enemy design fits the game’s aesthetic, a bit more variety wouldn’t hurt. After all, even Picasso knew when to switch up his color palette.

Story: A Narrative in the Shadows

In “VOID/BREAKER,” the story is like a shadowy figure lurking in the background, intriguing yet elusive. The narrative unfolds as you play, with lore and gameplay seamlessly intertwined. It’s a smart design choice that keeps the pace brisk and the action uninterrupted. The apocalyptic tale of an evil AI might not win any awards for originality, but it’s executed with enough flair to keep players engaged.

Yet, the roguelike nature of the game means the story can sometimes feel like an afterthought, overshadowed by the relentless pace of combat. The progression system, while rewarding, can be a double-edged sword, requiring multiple runs to advance the narrative. It’s a bit like trying to read a novel while riding a rollercoaster—exciting, but not always conducive to deep storytelling.

Final Verdict

“VOID/BREAKER” is a masterclass in chaotic fun, offering a unique blend of destruction, creativity, and fast-paced action. It’s a game that stands out in the FPS-roguelite genre, appealing to fans of both explosive gameplay and intricate customization. While it has its rough edges, particularly in terms of enemy variety and story integration, the potential for future development is immense. For those willing to embrace the chaos, “VOID/BREAKER” is a wild ride worth taking.

Score: 8.5/10