KillPixel’s latest shooter, Wrath: Aeon of Ruin, emerges as a testament to the ambitious 3D-level design, but this ambition sometimes overshadows the game’s pacing and overall enjoyment.
Initially surfacing amidst the resurgence of retro-shooters, Wrath: Aeon of Ruin garnered attention for its development within a modified Quake engine, with level design contributions from modding communities like Arcane Dimensions.
Its Early Access release in 2019 promised thrilling gameplay with an array of weapons, intense combat, intricate hub worlds, and coveted maps.
However, the game faced setbacks due to the Covid-19 pandemic, leading to delays in its full release. Over time, as other retro shooters like Prodeus, Ion Fury, and AMID EVIL gained traction, Wrath’s prominence waned, raising concerns akin to those surrounding Daikatana.
Nevertheless, after a prolonged development cycle, Wrath finally sees the light of day. Its defining feature lies not solely in its first-person shooter mechanics but in its homage to 3D-level design, pushing the boundaries of the Quake engine with its grandiose and diverse landscapes.
Yet, this aspect, while impressive, brings both praise and critique. While meticulously crafted, Wrath’s emphasis on creating expansive shooting arenas occasionally dilutes the core shooting experience.
The game’s premise follows a familiar FPS narrative: players assume the role of the Outlander, tasked with cleansing a forsaken realm of its malevolent inhabitants. Divided into three episodes set across distinct worlds, each housing five levels, players embark on a quest to retrieve magical runes essential for unlocking portals to confront formidable bosses.
Wrath dazzles initially with its frenetic FPS action. From wielding a broadsword capable of devastating charged attacks to acquiring firearms like the pistol and shotgun, each weapon feels impactful and satisfying. However, where Wrath truly shines is in its level design.
Each of the fifteen maps is a testament to intricate 3D worldbuilding, offering a labyrinthine journey through diverse environments. The non-linear structure allows for varied exploration paths, with memorable locales like The Undercrofts, The Mire, and The Gardens showcasing the game’s architectural prowess and attention to detail.
Despite the craftsmanship evident in its level design, Wrath falters in seamlessly integrating engaging combat encounters within its expansive environments.
The game’s save system, featuring infrequent checkpoints and consumable quicksave items, adds an additional layer of tension, often overshadowing the enjoyment of combat. While the option for infinite saves alleviates this issue, it doesn’t fully address the underlying problem of pacing and encounter design.
Combat sequences in Wrath often feel disjointed, lacking the fluidity and intensity desired in a shooter of its caliber. While some enemy encounters provide moments of exhilaration, others devolve into tedious battles against distant foes or repetitive sharpshooting scenarios.
Certain levels, like Shadow Pantheon, suffer from pacing issues, while others, such as The Priory and Twilight Archives, showcase the game’s potential with well-crafted combat scenarios and clever level design.
Wrath: Aeon of Ruin presents a mixed bag of exhilarating moments and frustrating encounters. While its ambition in 3D-level design is commendable, it occasionally overshadows the core shooting experience, resulting in pacing issues and inconsistent combat encounters. Despite its flaws, Wrath remains a captivating journey for enthusiasts of retro shooters, offering glimpses of brilliance amidst its tumultuous gameplay experience.
