Fun fact: the term ‘grimdark’ has its origins from the Warhammer 40k tabletop game, a universe where humanity is in a constant state of warfare against eldritch space gods and aliens. Warhammer 40k and the boomer shooter genre are a match made in hell, and Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun on Nintendo Switch is a solid recommendation for anyone seeking a retro first-person shooter experience.

Post-Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine, Boltgun follows a marine sent to pacify heretics who have been experimenting with a dangerous power source on a distant planet. With nothing more than a chainsaw sword, players must continue into a den of cultists to complete their mission. Although the game lacks depth in terms of narrative, it compensates with exhilarating gameplay.

Boltgun follows classic boomer shooter game design as players explore mazelike levels, pick up upgrades and ammo, and tear through masses of enemies in the goriest ways possible. Starting with the titular boltgun, players gain new weapons as they progress, each with strengths that make them more effective in certain situations. Although you’re encouraged to use your full arsenal, favorite weapons work just as well, and the game is never too difficult, though players may have to break away from enemy hordes to replenish their armor and health.

The game’s controls could use some work. Players may feel a lack of precision with their inputs, especially in undocked mode, as the Joy-Con sticks do not have enough travel. As a result, aiming for distant enemies can be challenging when running and strafing.

While the shooting action remains electrifying and exciting, Boltgun’s level design can be confusing. The environments are vast, and corridors tend to loop back on themselves, making it challenging to determine the way forward. Additionally, the general lack of notable landmarks to help with wayfinding and the absence of a map can exacerbate confusion.

Graphically, Boltgun uses a fascinating visual style, blending modern 3D with old-school 2D spritework of the original Doom game. The locales perfectly fit the characteristic grimdark aesthetic, with bleak, vaguely religious settings that blend science fiction and fantasy. Industrial tracks play throughout, adding a fittingly frenzied tone that complements the game’s unadulterated violence.

Though the game is not without its flaws, Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun is a satisfying addition to any boomer shooter fan’s library. Its violence-filled combat sequences offer consistently thrilling engagements, though players may have to come to terms with confusing level design and somewhat finicky controls. Overall, Boltgun is just a plain fun game to tear through, and we recommend it to anyone looking for a solid boomer shooter experience on the Nintendo Switch.