Game Review

Atlas Fallen

Released during the quiet summer months, *Atlas Fallen* by Deck13 Interactive brings some much-needed excitement. Known for their work on *The Surge* series and the original *Lords of the Fallen*, the studio aimed to deliver a unique action-packed experience. Does the game live up to the hype or fall short? Let’s dive in.

Story

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, *Atlas Fallen* explores the aftermath of a destructive force called Thelos, regarded as the Sun God. Thelos wreaked havoc, turning the world into a vast desert. Survivors now live in caravans under the rule of leaders, while the rest, called the “Unnamed,” live in servitude.

You play as one of the Unnamed who stumbles upon an ancient gauntlet capable of great power. Guided by a mysterious voice, your journey begins to aid caravans, uncover Thelos’s secrets, and find a way to save the world.

The story offers intriguing lore and a steady stream of mysteries. While engaging, it feels somewhat condensed, with limited depth in world-building. Side missions add value, offering insights into the game’s lore and characters.

Gameplay

The open-world desert setting is visually appealing but feels small and repetitive. While exploration rewards players with artifacts and abilities, the lack of unique encounters makes some areas feel empty. However, the second half of the game introduces visually stunning locations, complemented by intriguing backstories.

The game’s *hack-and-slash* combat is reminiscent of *God of War*. Using the gauntlet, you can shape sand into weapons like chains and hammers. While the weapon variety is limited, the *Essence Stones* system adds depth by allowing players to customize abilities and stats.

Momentum is a unique mechanic that rewards aggressive combat. The more you attack, the stronger your weapons become, leading to more intense battles. This adds excitement, especially during the game’s *Shatter* ultimate moves.

Unfortunately, enemy variety is limited. Many bosses are just larger versions of regular enemies, and the game throws most of its surprises early on. While there are standout boss fights, the overall challenge can feel repetitive.

Graphics and Performance

The game boasts good visuals with impressive environmental effects, though character animations and facial expressions during dialogue feel stiff. Voice acting is inconsistent, with emotions often failing to match the scenes’ tone.

Technical Performance

Technically, *Atlas Fallen* performs well. The game runs smoothly with no major glitches or crashes, even during large-scale battles. Load times are minimal, ensuring a seamless experience.

Final Verdict

*Atlas Fallen* successfully breaks the summer gaming monotony with its engaging combat and intriguing story. While its world feels limited and some aspects are underwhelming, the game offers a solid experience for fans of action games. It’s a light yet entertaining journey until the next wave of major releases.

Rating: 7/10