In the realm of gaming, originality often takes center stage, yet sometimes, a captivating aesthetic or an intriguing concept is all it takes to capture attention. Enter ExeKiller, a title that may not be new to everyone, but certainly piques interest with its unique blend of themes and visuals. The name itself might evoke thoughts of a computer virus, but rest assured, this game is anything but malicious. Instead, it presents an engaging experience set in a “semi-open” world, merging the gritty allure of a cyber-Western with retro-futuristic visuals.
Setting the Scene
Players step into the shoes of Denzel Fenix, a bounty hunter navigating the desolate landscapes of a post-apocalyptic Earth, where remnants of civilization are scattered among the dunes and gas stations. The game’s aesthetic draws inspiration from the likes of Cyberpunk 2077 and Drive, creating a visually striking environment that invites exploration.
The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a sinister corporation based in a crumbling New York City, where the misspelled name “Phoenix” hints at the darker undertones of the storyline. As players delve deeper, they will encounter powerful factions and uncover the mysteries of their own origins. The quests promise a dynamic experience, reminiscent of the choices found in Deus Ex, where dialogue decisions can lead to multiple endings and significant consequences.
Gameplay Mechanics
ExeKiller offers players a variety of moral dilemmas, such as whether to return a substantial sum of money to its rightful owners or invest it in upgrading weaponry. Choices extend to life-and-death scenarios, allowing players to decide between eliminating foes or showing mercy, potentially influencing their path to what the game refers to as “Cyborg Heaven.”
The game world diverges from traditional large city simulations, opting instead for a sprawling desert landscape dotted with smaller locations. Players will traverse these areas, facing environmental hazards and unexpected enemies as they progress through the map, which gradually unlocks with each main quest. A stylish hovercar, complete with a vibrant Seventies dashboard, serves as the primary mode of transportation.
Quests can be approached in various ways: players may choose to engage in combat, employ stealth, hack systems, or utilize dialogue to navigate challenges. Notably, ExeKiller eschews traditional experience points and leveling systems, focusing instead on a selection of mods, augments, and cutting-edge weapon technology.
Anticipation and Expectations
While the premise of ExeKiller may not seem groundbreaking at first glance, the concept of an open-world game centered around smaller, interconnected locations is intriguing. It raises the possibility of a streamlined experience akin to Fallout, minus the excess distractions typically associated with expansive RPGs. The allure of neon red bullet chambers and the thrill of piloting a flying car add an undeniable charm to the title.
ExeKiller is being developed by Paradark Studio and published by Null Games, with a release anticipated sometime next year. As the gaming community eagerly awaits further details, the blend of creativity and engaging gameplay mechanics promises to make ExeKiller a noteworthy addition to the landscape of interactive entertainment.
