I’ve only played Atomfall for a few hours, but I think I’m going straight to hell

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For quite some time now, I can’t remember being as torn while playing a game as I am with Atomfall, the latest open-world disaster game from Rebellion that recently became available on Xbox Game Pass.

It’s clear that similarities have been noted with Fallout, yet it offers a depth that surpasses this comparison. As a Brit, I assure you, my praise is not merely favoritism clouding my judgment.

In a pleasant surprise, Atomfall didn’t turn out as I anticipated. While I knew from our review that it offered a lot of decision-making freedom, I didn’t expect to find myself questioning my own choices while playing.

I’m only a few hours in, but I’m pretty sure I’m going straight to hell.

Wyndham Village, the scene of some heinous behavior

I’ll just come right out and say it: I killed a Vicar.

In an effort to avoid spoilers for those who haven’t experienced it, let me express it this way: The game offers a unique choice, one that allows you to tread the path of peace or unleash chaos. Personally, I opted for the latter, embracing the darkness within.

The entire incident unfolded within the church in Wyndham Village. Upon entering, I encountered the Vicar and a few others, as it appeared some unusual events had taken place. After discussing matters, everything seemed to be resolved, and I departed.

As I climbed the stairs, I stumbled upon a locked chest that held intrigue. It was something the Vicar had kept, an item he hadn’t shared with me through our previous exchanges. And yet, the thought of what lay within – particularly the mysterious Atomic Battery – stirred my curiosity and desire.

In my actions, I ended his life and seized the key. Yet, prior to that, I had eliminated another individual who could have testified against me. To add to the misfortune, I betrayed the Vicar to the Captain, accusing him of misconduct. Even though I had just taken his life, I felt compelled to heap more trouble upon him.

But I got my battery.

It seems my remorse wasn’t profound enough, as I found myself acting improperly yet again, this time within the context of the Captain’s quest line, specifically at the bakery. A touch of spoiler alert here…

It seems the gentleman at the bakery encountered some peculiar blue substance and doesn’t feel great. After consulting his wife, I decided to investigate upstairs. That’s where I found him, with bright blue eyes that seemed to glow.

In a natural manner, I sent him away. There were no issues with that. However, his wife suddenly entered in an outburst, screaming loudly, so in a moment of panic, I ended up taking her life as well. Afterward, I returned to inform the Captain about my actions (naturally, I omitted any mention of the wife from my report.)

Who am I in this game?!

The ultimate freedom is an absolute master stroke

The unconventional method of navigating Atomfall, combined with the flexibility to play as desired, is an impressive design choice. So far, I’ve only spent a few hours in the game, but I’m already deeply engrossed. I find myself reconnecting with the character who assisted me in escaping the bunker at the outset.

Oh, there’s a world full of mysteries waiting to be discovered! Unveiling tales yet untold, and the enigma behind Oberon, who might he be? And who persistently calls me over the phone?

I truly appreciate how versatile your gaming style is. You have the ability to move stealthily, evading potential threats or choosing to confront them directly by gaining allies or taking them out. It’s fascinating to observe such a variety in approach!

In Atomfall, you’re constantly needing to stay alert. For instance, assuming friendship with the Captain gave me free rein to access any parts of Wyndham Village didn’t extend to the substation. Consequently, a more aggressive response was employed.

Be righteous or make seriously questionable choices. It’s up to you. And I love it.

Atomfall is available now on Xbox, PC, PS5, and Xbox Game Pass.

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2025-03-28 17:39