Atomfall offers an intriguing glimpse into a post-apocalyptic world set in 1960s Northern England, five years after the catastrophic Windscale nuclear disaster. Developed by Rebellion Developments, this action-survival RPG seeks to carve out its own identity amidst the crowded landscape of big-budget games, which often demand 60 to 80 hours of commitment. However, Atomfall aims to be a refreshing change from the norm.
This game presents a unique questing system known as “Leads,” allowing players to explore a hauntingly beautiful world filled with secrets while piecing together their own narrative rather than following dictated markers. According to a Mashable review, "Atomfall is a step in the right direction as big-budget RPGs feel like a 60-to-80-hour commitment in 2025.”
Players begin by waking up in a bunker with no memories, their primary goal set on finding the Interchange, a secretive research facility managed by the British Atomic Research Division (B.A.R.D). The story unfolds in a quarantined zone where players encounter various factions, including ruthless outlaws and cultist druids, all the while navigating the eerie remnants of society.
The “Leads” system stands out as a significant gameplay feature. Unlike traditional RPGs where quests come with clear objectives, Atomfall tasks players with deciphering clues from notes, conversations, and environmental interactions. This method allows for organic exploration that encourages players to delve deeper. As noted by a review from The Gamer, "The Leads-based quest system is perfectly executed," showcasing the game's refreshing approach to narrative discovery.
In Atomfall, the British countryside plays a central role, with four large and distinct areas offering players vast landscapes to explore. The game's setting is crafted with a blend of beauty and foreboding, echoing its inspirations from British folklore. As players traverse through these environments, they may encounter dangerous factions and thrilling gameplay moments that draw them deeper into the story. The world is richly detailed, and as VICE points out, "the world of Atomfall is vast, with four large areas to explore." By blending survival mechanics with RPG elements, every encounter presents a chance for both danger and intrigue.
Combat also stands as a mixed bag. While players can wield an array of weapons, including guns and melee options, the combat mechanics do not always meet expectations. Some reviews express frustration with the melee combat, describing it as cumbersome in contrasts with the more engaging gunplay. They suggest that players who approach encounters stealthily will have the best experience. In one review, the writer humorously recalls their strategy, saying, "I could finish off most human enemies with two or three hits, and as long as I kept a steady stockpile of alcohol and cloth to craft bandages, I could easily recover from most damage.”
As players delve deeper into the game’s narrative threads, they discover a lack of a truly pressing main story, leaving the narrative to unfold organically through character interactions and emergent storytelling. Some players may find this enhances the experience, while others could see it as a missed opportunity for depth. Indeed, Atomfall bears more resemblance to a choose-your-own-adventure work than a traditional RPG. The game encourages players to follow their own leads, contributing to a uniquely tailored narrative experience. However, it does face criticism for its thin primary plot, which may detract from replay value.
Furthermore, reviews across the board mention a degree of frustration when it comes to the game’s mechanics. Ships with contemporary gameplay often find themselves critiquing the enemy AI for inconsistencies. In addition, players must contend with a continually scarce supply of resources, prompting a need for strategic resource management. Those familiar with survival titles like S.T.A.L.K.E.R. will likely appreciate its dedication to tension and strategy in combat: "Atomfall feels reminiscent of S.T.A.L.K.E.R., due to its approach to non-linear storytelling and the need to scavenge to survive," reads one comparison.
However, a notable highlight of Atomfall is its atmosphere. The game captivates with its dark aesthetic and environmental storytelling elements that immerse players in a suspenseful narrative. The quests not only involve battling enemies but uncovering the stories behind the world, making each discovery feel gratifying. The game boasts a wealth of intriguing NPCs, and the alignment with various factions affords players meaningful choices that affect their playthrough.
In conclusion, Atomfall arrives on March 27, 2025, on PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One and Series X/S, and PC, with an attractive price tag of $59.99 for consoles and $49.99 for PC players. While it may not achieve the depth or complexity some RPG enthusiasts expect, it presents a compelling proposition for those seeking a survival game with an emphasis on exploration. Its blend of action, atmosphere, and player-driven storytelling may just offer the escape many players crave.
