Review – Atomfall (PlayStation 5)

A Unique British Experience

Rebellion, known for their successful Sniper Elite series, has ventured into new territory with their latest game, Atomfall. This first-person experience draws comparisons to beloved titles like Fable and Fallout. While Atomfall may not have been on my radar initially, my admiration for Rebellion piqued my interest. After spending extensive time playing Atomfall, I can confidently say that while I have some personal pacing gripes, the game overall offers a solid experience.

An Intriguing Narrative

From the get-go, Atomfall exudes a distinctly British charm. The game’s dialogue and characters are unabashedly British, adding a unique touch to the experience. Set in the militaristic Atom Plant, the story unfolds as you awaken in a bunker with fragmented memories. Delving into the mystery of the Atom Plant and navigating the restrictions and military presence in surrounding villages keeps players engaged. While I won’t spoil the ending, I can attest to the layered and engrossing narrative that rewards players who invest time in uncovering its secrets.

A Non-Traditional Approach

Atomfall defies traditional RPG conventions by eschewing linear quests in favor of player-driven exploration. Rebellion challenges players to carve their path through the game, offering choices on how to tackle encounters and engage with the world. Whether adopting a stealthy, non-lethal approach or resorting to more direct methods, players must meticulously manage their resources, particularly ammunition. The game’s scarcity of supplies adds a layer of tension, making each decision crucial for progression.


Immersive Gameplay

Atomfall’s focus on player agency extends to dialogue choices that impact the narrative trajectory. The game’s lack of a traditional quest system in favor of leads and investigations adds depth to the gameplay. Players must navigate through dialogue interactions akin to games like LA Noire, where choices influence subsequent events. While the game’s pacing may not appeal to all players, Atomfall’s innovative approach to storytelling and gameplay mechanics make it a compelling experience worth exploring.

Rebellion’s bold foray into uncharted territory with Atomfall has yielded a pleasant surprise. Despite its deliberate pace, the game offers a engaging experience that will resonate with fans of Fallout and Fable. I recommend giving Atomfall a try, as it delivers a fresh take on the RPG genre that is sure to leave an impression.

Acknowledgments

A big thank you to Rebellion for providing the PlayStation 5 Review Code for this review. This review can be found on OpenCritic.