The Postal series has long been known for its chaotic gameplay and controversial humor, often pushing boundaries that many would consider crossing. Developer Running with Scissors embraces this reputation, proudly wearing the badge of infamy. Their latest release, Postal: Brain Damaged, introduces a fresh perspective on the franchise, helmed by a new development team. This title diverges from the series’ traditional open-world satire, opting instead for a focused, Quake/Doom-style first-person shooter experience that is not only engaging but essential for any FPS enthusiast’s Steam library.
A New Direction in Gameplay
While the series has its share of missteps—most notably the poorly received Postal 4, which currently languishes with a mere 32% rating on Steam—Postal: Brain Damaged emerges as a beacon of hope. Set within the mind of the Postal Dude, this game amplifies the series’ signature absurdity while streamlining the gameplay. Players can still indulge in the infamous ability to pee on demand, a feature that some might argue has inspired other titles in the genre, albeit with a humorous twist.
The game successfully balances its outrageous humor with modern gameplay mechanics. The nostalgic graphics evoke a sense of retro charm, while the strafe and dodge movements feel contemporary and responsive. Each weapon, from the Nailbiter to the BFG 69000, delivers a satisfying crunch with every shot, reminiscent of the challenging FPS titles from the ’90s, akin to Ultrakill or Warhammer 40k: Boltgun.
Affordable Gaming Options
In an unexpected turn, Postal: Brain Damaged is currently available for just / £1, making it an enticing addition to your gaming collection. It is part of the Build Your Own Adrenaline Bundle from Fanatical, where players can select three games for a mere / £3, with the potential to reduce the price to just 95 cents each when purchasing more titles. Other games included in this bundle are:
- Blind Fate: Edo no Yami
- The Darkest Tales
- Cosmic Waves
- Storm Edge
- Sniper Elite V2 Remastered
- Hyper Demon
- Aaero2
- Xmas Apocalypse
- Hammerwatch 2
- Afterimage: Deluxe Edition
Whether you are drawn to the thrill of a fast-paced boomer shooter or are curious about the unique humor that defines the Postal franchise, Postal: Brain Damaged stands out as a compelling choice. With its low price point, it invites players to explore its eccentricities, provided they can navigate the more grotesque elements of its humor.
