PGC NEWS

Severed Steel, published by Digerati Games, is a rare gem that leaves you craving more after the credits roll, for reasons both good and bad. This fast-paced, acrobatic first-person shooter blends familiar mechanics from various titles into a unique and exhilarating experience.

Severed Steel Gameplay

A Thrilling Blend of Familiar Mechanics

If you’ve played F.E.A.R., Doom, Mirror’s Edge, Max Payne, Titanfall, or Destiny, you’ll recognize many of the core mechanics that Severed Steel employs. However, the game combines these elements in a way that feels fresh and frantic. Imagine wall-running like a Titanfall Pilot, sliding across the floor, performing acrobatic flips like Max Payne, and chaining together double jumps and wall bounces reminiscent of Destiny’s Guardians. Add to that a slow-motion mechanic similar to F.E.A.R., and you have a recipe for chaotic, high-octane action.

Severed Steel Movement

Severed Steel’s movement system is its defining feature. You’re constantly in motion, sprinting, sliding, and leaping across multi-level environments. Unlike Doom, where you bounce between enemies, Severed Steel has you ricocheting off walls like a human pinball, creating a thrilling sense of momentum.

Severed Steel Combat

But movement is only half the equation. Combat in Severed Steel is equally dynamic. Often starting unarmed, you must rush enemies, wrestle their weapons away, and then use those very weapons against them. This constant need to acquire new firearms keeps the action fresh and forces you to adapt to different combat scenarios. The game’s 20 levels are cleverly designed, featuring a variety of enemy types, including shielded foes, airborne units, snipers, and heavily armored opponents. This encourages strategic thinking and rewards players who can master the game’s fluid movement and combat systems. Whether you choose a methodical approach or dive headfirst into the chaos, Severed Steel accommodates various playstyles.

Severed Steel Action

Room for Improvement

While Severed Steel’s minimalist art style is appealing, the high contrast and reflective surfaces can sometimes make it difficult to discern the environment, especially during the fast-paced action. While the game offers colorblind options, these don’t entirely alleviate the issue.

Severed Steel Visuals

Another drawback is the game’s short length. The campaign can be completed in around two hours, and the Firefight mode simply rehashes existing content. For a game with such engaging mechanics, this brevity leaves you wanting more.

Severed Steel Gameplay

Conclusion

Severed Steel delivers a thrilling, albeit brief, experience. Its unique blend of acrobatic movement and dynamic combat creates a frenetic and satisfying gameplay loop. While the game’s visuals can sometimes be problematic and its short length disappointing, the core gameplay is undeniably addictive. Severed Steel is a must-try for fans of fast-paced, innovative first-person shooters.