During the recent Xbox showcase, Devolver Digital unveiled an exciting new addition to the Serious Sam franchise: Serious Sam: Shatterverse. This iteration diverges from its predecessors, introducing a run-based multiplayer first-person shooter experience designed for up to five players. Each player embodies a different version of Sam, navigating a multiverse fractured by the nefarious villain, Mental, in their quest to restore order.
Gameplay Dynamics and Unique Features
The Serious Sam series is renowned for its expansive battlefields, overwhelming hordes of enemies, and an eclectic arsenal of weapons, many of which lean towards the impractical side. While the franchise has traditionally offered various co-op and competitive multiplayer modes, the single-player experience has always been the cornerstone, often serving as a backdrop for exhilarating combat.
Reflecting on the recent trend of run-based multiplayer shooters, such as the reimagined Painkiller, there is a cautious optimism surrounding Shatterverse. The inherent design of Serious Sam, with its vast environments, lends itself well to multiplayer gameplay. The series has consistently embraced absurdity, making this fresh approach more appealing. A particularly clever twist is the concept of each player being a unique variant of Sam, which adds a layer of creativity to the gameplay. Notably, the original voice actor, John J. Dick, returns to lend his voice to the game, maintaining a connection to the franchise’s roots.
A New Development Team
Interestingly, Serious Sam: Shatterverse is not being developed by Croteam, the original creators, who are currently focused on their successful title, Talos Principle. Instead, Behaviour Interactive, known for the multiplayer horror game Dead By Daylight, is at the helm. Producer Nic Duchesne emphasized the studio’s commitment to honoring Serious Sam’s legacy while delivering a contemporary experience that feels distinct within the series.
Croteam has expressed enthusiasm for this collaboration, with co-founder Davor Hunski stating, “It’s very exciting to see another talented team step in and create something bold, fresh, and different within the universe we cherished for so long.”
Looking Ahead
While a specific release date for Serious Sam: Shatterverse has yet to be announced, it is anticipated to launch later this year. Gamers can already wishlist the title on Steam, and for those eager for some classic shooter action in the meantime, the entire Serious Sam franchise is currently available at significant discounts during the Steam Spring Sale.
