I’ve noticed more and more as I age that gamers are a hard bunch to please. When developers introduce fresh, smart mechanics and blend them into our favorite genres, it seems we’re never satisfied, often grumbling that it feels too different. Yet, on the flip side, if those elements aren’t present, we lament that games become repetitive clones and lack excitement. This extends to a game’s complexity as well—too complex, and it’s overwhelming, too simple, and it’s dull. This might stem from how saturated we’ve become with gaming. We play so many titles that each new game stands in the shadow of its predecessors, and often, it’s tough to pinpoint exactly what we’re seeking. This observation is key for today’s review of Death Elevator, a game that’s likely to be divisive based on what you personally believe makes a great game.
The basic concept of Death Elevator couldn’t be more straightforward. Players step into an elevator and battle adversaries floor by floor. Imagine something akin to the original Team Fortress or Quake. There’s no fuss here—grab your weapon and clear the level of enemies before moving on to the next. For some shooter enthusiasts, this lack of complexity might seem outdated. We’re so accustomed to skill trees and load-out considerations that the mere thought of stripping all that away might seem old school. But for me, someone who grew up in an era devoid of such frills, it’s a joyride down memory lane. Plus, by focusing solely on the action, there’s a chance to hone basic skills.
What makes Death Elevator distinct are two standout features. First, the game’s visual style is remarkably reminiscent of Superhot with its minimalistic, blocky design that pairs neatly with the simplicity of the gameplay, creating an appealing package. Secondly, there’s a mechanic where time slows down when bullets are in your line of sight, giving you the chance to dodge or even shoot them out of the air. However, there’s a catch—this mechanic doesn’t help much when you’re getting shot from different angles. If you’re solely concentrating on what’s ahead, you might find yourself struck from behind. It’s a clever idea that requires some adaptation to master fully.
Discussing Death Elevator’s storyline isn’t straightforward. There is one, but it unfolds gradually as you progress. There’s no detailed prologue to digest initially. Instead, players receive small story bites every few levels, leaving you to piece things together based on performance. So, I’m not really in a position to spoil much since I’m as clueless about the full story as you might be. It’s really more about the shooting experience, which isn’t a downside at all.
Overall, Death Elevator is a fun thrill with a compelling draw. The graphic choices resonate well with the gameplay, and everything functions as expected. Whether you enjoy it depends largely on what you desire from a game. It’s timed, adding a challenge for those inclined toward speed runs, and offers difficulty levels for those seeking to push their skills. The absence of checkpoints means finishing in one run, perfect for fans of arcade-style gaming.
That said, Death Elevator might not appeal to gamers who relish character development or customized load-outs. This game offers you basic tools—adapt or perish. For those who crave a captivating narrative, its cryptic story might seem insufficient.
In finding myself returning to improve my skills on each attempt, I’ve realized that I am thoroughly enjoying Death Elevator. As a fan of retro shooters, it ticks many boxes for me. If you’re like me or just want to try something different in the FPS genre, it’s worth considering. But if you’re looking for a strategic, in-depth experience, there are other titles out there that might suit you better.
Ratings:
- Look and Feel: 8/10
- Challenge: 8/10
- Replayability: 7/10
- Value for Money: 9/10
- Controls and UI: 8/10
Overall: 8/10
Review Summary:
Death Elevator provides an entertaining FPS experience despite not being a fit for every shooter enthusiast. Its simplicity and challenging nature may deter some players, but those who enjoy arcade-style games with a hearty challenge will likely find a lot to enjoy. If you’re in search of something more intricate, you might want to keep looking.
