WRATH: Aeon of Ruin for PlayStation 4

Quake-inspired retro FPS

Wrath: Aeon of Ruin is a premium action game from KillPixel and 3D Realms, the latter being the publisher of classic games like Duke Nukem and Max Payne. This retro first-person shooter (FPS), inspired by classics like Doom and Quake II, puts you in the shoes of the Outlander. Tasked with hunting the last Guardians of the Old World, you face hordes of monsters, zombies, and other horrific creatures scattered across various set designs.

Despite its authentic graphics and audio, Wrath: Aeon of Ruin features increased replayability value and smoother movements. It’s a lot like Graven and HEXEN: Beyond Heretic.

Relive the early days of FPS

The first thing to note about Wrath: Aeon of Ruin is its complete retro feel. Powered by Quake-1 technology and set designs crafted by people involved in the Quake scene, expect an all-new story with the same familiar vibes. The game is in full 3D, both the set and all the characters, but uses low-resolution and pixelated textures. It also features fast-paced and action-packed music pieces, making it more immersive.

Unlike the games that inspired it, Wrath features a more fluid combat system. This game features smooth movements, animations, and projectile physics, which lends to the difficulty and the immersion. The selection of weapons, however, can feel largely unoriginal, although most come with various firing modes. One thing missing is the Spellbook, which has been in promotional materials but is yet to appear in the game.

The set designs are also noteworthy, with its areas spanning from AMID EVIL to Scorn. The biggest letdown in this title is that it was stuck in development hell for about four years, by which many other games in the so-called neo-FPS subgenre have come and gone. Despite its very good action potential, the fact that it blatantly reuses enemy units derails the storyline potential and the gameplay experience.

Still a must-try

For people who grew up with the original Doom and Quake, or those who have been enjoying the wave of retro FPS for modern devices, Wrath: Aeon of Ruin is still worth a shot. Hardcore fans might dismiss it as missing its window, but it still has some things to offer. It has impressive set designs, smooth movement and animation, and authentic retro visuals.