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Let’s dive into Atomfall, a game that, at first glance, is often described as a fusion of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2’s allure and the deep questlines of Fallout 76. Initially, that seemed fitting when I previewed it. But after spending more time with the game, I found it more akin to Arkane’s 2017 Prey than the Fallout series.
Atomfall is a magnificent blend of surreal science fiction and player autonomy, striking an unexpected resemblance to Prey, which was initially underrated but eventually recognized as a masterpiece among gamers. Atomfall seems set to follow a similar path.
Although not without flaws, it’s the kind of game that reminds us of the joys of gaming. In an era overloaded with directives and predetermined paths, Atomfall rewards your creativity. Ignore mission prompts or follow them in various ways — the choice is yours.
The liberty to choose how you interact with the world is a rare gift. Atomfall not only supports this approach but is why I’d urge anyone to delve into this Rebellion RPG.
Why should you rely on my insights? I’m Michael Hoglund, a gaming enthusiast since childhood, starting with a Super Nintendo. Today, I share my 30+ years of gaming passion through contributions to Windows Central.
This review comes your way thanks to a code from Rebellion, who had no influence over its content before publication.
Now, let’s talk about what I loved: the freedom to explore. The world isn’t a single, continuous map but is split into distinct zones.
You begin your journey in the outlaw-heavy Slatten Dale. From there, you can choose your path through five main zones like the chatty Wyndham Village or the eccentric Casterfell Woods, each with a unique atmosphere.
In these zones, your standing with the locals can determine if you need to move stealthily or can navigate freely, leading to varied and interesting gameplay experiences.
Exploration is richly rewarded. Each decision offers something new, whether in terms of gear, skills, or just the path you choose. Quest clues, often found in scattered notes or overheard conversations, lead you on multi-step missions that uncover rewards or deepen your relationship with the world.
This quest system doesn’t hold your hand but provides a direction, inviting players to engage and discover.
Once you arrive at The Interchange, your main task is clear: escape the quarantine zone. How you achieve this is your story to tell. Maybe by piecing together riddles through dusty notes or by forging alliances—or simply by going it alone.
Atomfall gives players unprecedented freedom, a standard many other games only claim to offer. This freedom elevates the experience, encouraging players to genuinely make the story their own. Your choices influence the narrative, and the game respects this by providing multiple ways to engage with it.
While the overarching objective involves powering the Interchange using atomic batteries, how you collect these batteries is entirely up to you. Engage in brawls, forge alliances, or explore the rich narrative infused with classic British sci-fi elements. The lore and story are captivating, pulling from the likes of Day of the Triffids and Doctor Who.
The choices you face—who to help, who to oppose—are complex and affect your journey. Your individual path will undoubtedly differ from friends, driving home how personal this adventure feels.
A unique aspect involves a secret achievement, offering a fresh challenge by encouraging you to play without picking up the phone—a twist on conventional gaming tasks that underscores Atomfall’s commitment to player choice. It’s an option you’d rarely encounter elsewhere.
Transitioning to what’s just “fine,” let’s discuss the combat. It’s straightforward and simple but does its job well enough. There’s no blocking, and the range of weapons isn’t vast, sticking to functional basics rather than extravagant options.
Weapons don’t degrade, allowing players to stick with favorites throughout the game. While combat serves its purpose, the real star remains the exploration and the game’s world.
However, not everything is perfect. The game’s AI leaves much to be desired, with occasionally comical, brainless behavior. Enemies can fall into predictable patterns, sometimes allowing players to clear areas unchallenged, highlighting a need for polish in this aspect.
So, should you purchase Atomfall? If you crave a world rich with freedom and exploration, this game is for you. However, if you’re seeking groundbreaking combat, you might look elsewhere. Though not without quirks, Atomfall offers a rewarding experience worth its price point—a sentiment echoed by fans of similar games like Prey and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. It’s a game that only gets better with time, and I eagerly await future updates and DLC.
