Atomfall, developed by Rebellion, is a new IP that strives to carve its own identity apart from the well-known Fallout series. Set against a backdrop of a post-apocalyptic British countryside, players awaken as an amnesiac with a mysterious mission to destroy "Oberon" while navigating a world filled with mutants and warring factions.
Unlike most open-world games, Atomfall’s structure is refreshingly unrestrictive. Players can explore various interconnected maps freely, gathering leads through conversations, notes, and environmental hints without being overwhelmed by explicit quest markers. This encourages a sense of discovery as players follow leads to find hidden missions, traders, and elaborate storylines, keeping the gameplay dynamic and engaging.
As players delve into the narrative, they encounter factions, such as a military group, lawless bandits, and a cult of pagans, each with its own perspective on the catastrophic events that shaped the world. The choices players make when aligning with these groups significantly impact the story’s direction, leading to multiple endings, thereby enhancing replayability.
However, the game isn’t without its flaws. Combat can be cumbersome, especially when using firearms, while stealth mechanics can feel unbalanced with enemies that appear overly vigilant. The crafting system also suffers from a resource economy imbalance, where players may accumulate materials without space to utilize them effectively.
Overall, Atomfall is an intriguing addition to the open-world genre, successfully intertwining mystery-laden quests and explorative gameplay that feels rewarding. With the foundation laid in this first installment, potential future entries could refine its mechanics and storytelling for an even richer experience.
