Review

Atomic Heart

Atomic Heart is the first game from Russian studio Mundfish, published by Focus Entertainment.

Overview

Atomic Heart is one of the most anticipated games for FPS lovers, especially those who appreciate a strong storyline. Many fans compare it to classics like Bioshock, and expectations for this game were very high.

Story and Narrative

The story is set in an alternate version of the 1950s, after World War II. In this timeline, the Soviet Union emerges victorious, achieving scientific advancements far beyond what we have today, even in 2023. Robots have become a regular part of everyday life, thanks to a revolutionary chemical called Polymer, which serves as the foundation for all technological breakthroughs.

Main Character

You play as Major Nechayev, code-named P-3, a war veteran with memory loss, saved by Professor Sechenov, the mastermind behind the Soviet scientific advancements.

The Conflict

The story kicks off with celebrations in the Soviet Union for the launch of “Kollective,” a new technology enabling humans to control robots using a device called “THOUGHT.” However, chaos ensues when robots rebel against humans just days before the official launch. Your mission is to contain the situation before it escalates globally, a task assigned to you by Professor Sechenov.

Story Duration

The main story lasts around 15 hours on medium difficulty. Exploring side content and secrets can extend playtime to 20-25 hours.

Gameplay

Atomic Heart’s gameplay strikes a balance between simplicity and addictiveness. Combat involves using a variety of weapons and abilities from an AI-powered glove. Whether close combat with axes or ranged fights with firearms, the gameplay is exhilarating and keeps you on your toes.

Enemy AI

The enemies are aggressive, keeping the adrenaline high. The AI is smart, making every encounter challenging and enjoyable. Boss fights, in particular, stand out, with around six major ones that combine excellent design with intense music.

Puzzles

The game also features creative puzzles, adding depth and variety to the gameplay experience.

Crafting and RPG Elements

Atomic Heart includes a crafting system for weapons and abilities, but it can feel overly complex. Resources are scattered, and there’s no clear tracking system, making crafting cumbersome.

World Design

While the graphics are stunning, the open world feels unnecessary. Navigation lacks tools like a compass, and driving mechanics are subpar.

Final Verdict

Atomic Heart blends the best elements of Bioshock, DOOM, and Fallout into a unique FPS experience. Despite flaws in its open-world design and crafting system, the game excels in storytelling, gameplay, and creativity.

8.5/10