Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

MONSTER

Exoprimal

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Exoprimal
Item: Exoprimal
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableJul 14, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Exoprimal is a co-op action game with a competitive edge. Two teams of five players in powered armor battle hordes of dinosaurs. Only one team will survive.

Elsewhere

6.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Exoprimal's story offers a creative premise with dinosaurs and an AI named Leviathan, praised for its humor and intriguing setup. However, critics largely deem its execution poor, citing disjointed structure, convoluted plot, and shallow character development. The repetitive gameplay that unlocks story elements undermines its potential, resulting in a narrative that feels secondary to the action. Overall, while it has entertaining moments, Exoprimal's storytelling is seen as a missed opportunity, lacking coherence and emotional depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

22%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Exoprimal has garnered some praise from critics for its imaginative premise and unique narrative structure. Reviewers like Cubed3 and Digital Trends highlight the engaging aspects of the storyline, noting the intriguing setup involving dinosaurs emerging from time vortices and the role of an AI named Leviathan. Critics such as Game Informer and We Got This Covered appreciate the absurdity and humor woven into the narrative, which adds a layer of entertainment. Additionally, some reviewers, including MMORPG.com and Checkpoint Gaming, found the storytelling elements—delivered through cutscenes, audio logs, and character interactions—to be compelling, providing a sense of mystery and character development that enhances the multiplayer experience. However, the overall sentiment regarding the story is predominantly negative, with many critics expressing disappointment in its execution. Merlin'in Kazanı and Shacknews describe the narrative as poorly presented and uninteresting, with a disjointed structure that detracts from player engagement. Critics like GamingBolt and The Jimquisition point out the convoluted nature of the plot and the lack of depth in character development, making it difficult for players to connect with the story. The repetitive nature of gameplay, which requires completing matches to unlock story elements, is criticized by several reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com and Gaming Age, who feel this approach undermines the narrative's potential impact. In conclusion, while Exoprimal's story features a creative foundation and some entertaining elements, the consensus among critics indicates that it ultimately falls short in execution. Many reviewers, such as PCGamesN and The Loadout, emphasize the lack of coherence and emotional resonance, leading to a narrative experience that feels more like an afterthought to the gameplay. Critics widely agree that the storytelling could have been more engaging and cohesive, leaving players wanting a more substantial narrative experience to accompany the action-packed gameplay.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Exoprimal impresses with its fun multiplayer and diverse exosuits, blending PvE and PvP elements effectively. Critics praise the fast-paced action and teamwork, but many find the gameplay repetitive and lacking depth, leading to a grindy experience. While it shows promise, the game needs more variety and innovative mechanics to sustain long-term interest.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Exoprimal has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly regarding its engaging multiplayer mechanics and the variety of exosuits available. Reviewers such as Windows Central and Digital Trends highlight the enjoyable blend of PvE and PvP elements, noting that the fast-paced action and the ability to switch between different exosuits add depth to the gameplay experience. Critics like Gamersky and Cubed3 appreciate the dynamic nature of the gameplay, emphasizing the thrill of battling hordes of dinosaurs while cooperating with teammates to achieve objectives. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from Everyeye.it and PC Gamer, mention the solid gunplay and the satisfaction derived from the diverse character classes, which cater to various playstyles and encourage strategic teamwork. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the repetitiveness and lack of depth in Exoprimal's gameplay. Gamereactor UK and Gaming Age describe the core PvE experience as bland and lacking excitement, often feeling like busywork rather than engaging combat. Merlin'in Kazanı and Eurogamer Poland echo this sentiment, criticizing the limited variety in maps and mission types, which can lead to a grinding experience. Furthermore, several reviews, including those from IGN Italia and MeuPlayStation, point out that while the gameplay may start off enjoyable, it quickly becomes monotonous due to the repetitive nature of objectives and the absence of innovative mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Exoprimal offers a fun and engaging multiplayer experience with its unique exosuit mechanics and cooperative gameplay, it is hampered by a lack of variety and depth. Many reviewers, such as TRG and Digital Chumps, recognize the potential for enjoyment in the gameplay loop but caution that the repetitive nature of missions and objectives may deter long-term engagement. The mixed reception indicates that while Exoprimal has a solid foundation, it may require further refinement and content updates to enhance its longevity and appeal to a broader audience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Exoprimal boasts striking character and Exosuit designs praised for their uniqueness, but suffers from bland, generic environments that detract from the overall experience. While the game performs smoothly and showcases vibrant visuals, critics largely agree that it lacks the graphical finesse and originality expected from a modern title, resulting in a mixed reception. Overall, it’s a visually engaging game that fails to deliver a cohesive and immersive graphical landscape.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Exoprimal is mixed, with several positive aspects highlighted by various critics. Many reviewers praised the character and Exosuit designs, noting their distinctiveness and appeal. For instance, Hobby Consolas and Gaming Age emphasized the impressive design of the Exosuits, describing them as well-executed and visually appealing. Additionally, the game’s performance received commendations, with IGN Adria and Windows Central noting that it can handle a large number of dinosaurs on-screen without any frame rate drops, showcasing the capabilities of Capcom's RE Engine. Critics like Cubed3 and MeuPlayStation also mentioned the vibrant aesthetic and colorful graphics, contributing to a visually engaging experience. However, the criticisms regarding Exoprimal's graphics are significant and frequent. Many reviewers pointed out that while the character designs are strong, the environments often feel generic and lack detail. For example, The Loadout described the visuals as having a mid-2000s identity, while Vandal noted that the graphics can appear flat and lacking in detail, especially in close-up views. Critics like PC Gamer and New Game Network echoed these sentiments, stating that the overall aesthetic is uninspired and that the user interface is poorly designed and difficult to navigate. Furthermore, repetitive environments were a common point of contention, as noted by Jeuxvideo.com and Everyeye.it, which detracted from the overall visual experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Exoprimal features a mix of impressive character and Exosuit designs set against a backdrop of less compelling environments. While the game showcases solid performance and a vibrant aesthetic, many reviewers feel that it ultimately lacks the graphical polish and originality expected from a modern title. Critics like Game Informer and TechRadar Gaming acknowledge the visual appeal during gameplay but agree that the environments do not match the quality of the character designs. Overall, Exoprimal presents a visually engaging experience, but it falls short in delivering a fully immersive and varied graphical landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Exoprimal's sound design shines with realistic effects and strong voice work for the AI character, but suffers from a forgettable soundtrack and inconsistent voice acting that disrupts immersion. Critics are split, praising some elements while highlighting significant flaws, ultimately resulting in an audio experience that lacks cohesion and impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Exoprimal have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly regarding the quality of sound effects and voice acting. Reviewers from TheXboxHub and MMORPG.com highlight the realistic dinosaur noises, gunfire, and explosions, which they believe enhance the intensity of gameplay. Additionally, the character of Leviathan, voiced in a manner reminiscent of iconic AI characters, has been positively received for adding a unique flair to the game, as noted by We Got This Covered. Critics such as TechRadar Gaming and TRG also commend the music, asserting that it contributes significantly to the overall gaming experience, with some tracks being described as great and fitting for cutscenes and combat. However, the criticisms surrounding Exoprimal's sound design and music are notable. Many reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com and PlaySense, express disappointment in the soundtrack, labeling it as forgettable and underutilized, particularly in the context of the fast-paced gameplay. Issues with voice acting have also been highlighted, with IGN France pointing out the disruptive nature of partial French voice acting, while XboxEra criticizes the overall quality of voice performances, likening them to a poorly executed arcade game. Furthermore, localization issues have been flagged by critics such as Everyeye.it and MeuPlayStation, who note the inconsistent use of languages in dialogue, which can lead to confusion and detract from immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divided sentiment towards the sound design and music of Exoprimal. While there are commendable aspects, such as effective sound effects and the engaging portrayal of the AI character, significant shortcomings in the soundtrack and voice acting have been consistently noted. Critics like GameGrin and Hobby Consolas acknowledge the sound design as satisfactory, but the mixed reviews suggest that it fails to stand out in a crowded genre. As a result, Exoprimal presents an audio experience that, while having its strengths, is marred by inconsistencies and missed opportunities for a more cohesive and impactful auditory landscape.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Exoprimal's voice acting receives mixed reviews; praised by some for stellar performances and immersive AI voices, while heavily criticized by others for being monotonous, poorly localized, and lacking depth. Despite standout moments, the overall execution leaves many players unimpressed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

30%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Exoprimal has garnered a mix of praise from several critics, highlighting certain aspects that stand out positively. Critics from GameGrin and The Mako Reactor commend the voice acting as stellar and very good, respectively, noting that it contributes positively to the overall experience. Additionally, Gamersky emphasizes the AI voice acting as a highlight, enhancing the game's immersive quality. The performances of the multi-ethnic crew have also been described as entertaining by Eurogamer, suggesting that there are moments where the voice acting adds personality and depth to the narrative, despite other shortcomings in the game's storytelling approach. However, the negatives surrounding the voice acting are significant and frequently mentioned across various reviews. Many critics, including Jeuxvideo.com and PC Gamer, point out the monotonous and repetitive nature of the AI voice acting, which can become grating over time. Additionally, the inconsistent localization noted by IGN France and Everyeye.it, where different languages are used for various characters, leads to awkward dialogue moments that disrupt the flow of the game. Critics like XboxEra have criticized the voice acting for sounding reminiscent of a bad 2000s arcade game, while Eurogamer Germany and Poland highlight the mute protagonist's lack of voice lines, detracting from character depth and engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Exoprimal is mixed, with a notable divide in opinions. While some reviewers like The Mako Reactor and GameGrin find the voice acting to be a strong point that enhances the game's experience, others, such as Jeuxvideo.com and PC Gamer, express dissatisfaction with its quality and delivery. The inconsistent localization and the lack of depth in character interactions further complicate the overall sentiment, leading to a perception that while there are commendable performances, the voice acting ultimately fails to leave a lasting impression for many players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Exoprimal impresses with solid technical performance on Xbox Series X, PC, and PS5, earning praise for smooth gameplay and handling of large enemy counts. Critics commend the Xbox and PS5 versions, though minor issues like clunky menus and matchmaking delays are noted. The PC version shines with high frame rates but faces some lag complaints. Overall, despite a few hiccups, the game showcases Capcom's capabilities and delivers a robust multiplayer experience across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Exoprimal across various gaming platforms has received a largely positive reception from critics. On the Xbox Series X, reviewers such as Game Informer and IGN France praised the game for its smooth performance, stable frame rates, and minimal bugs, even during intense action sequences. Generación Xbox and XboxEra echoed this sentiment, noting that the game handles large numbers of enemies without significant frame rate drops. On PC, critics like Eurogamer Poland and GameGrin highlighted the game's solid technical performance, with no reported bugs or performance drops, while Wccftech noted an impressive average of 90 FPS at 4K resolution. For the PS5, the game also performed well, with reviewers like Finger Guns and MeuPlayStation commending its stable frame rates and smooth gameplay, suggesting that it effectively utilizes the capabilities of the RE Engine. However, there are notable negatives associated with the technical performance on each platform. On Xbox Series X, Gamer.no criticized the clunky menu system designed for mouse and keyboard, which detracted from the overall experience. GameSkinny pointed out frame rate drops during cutscenes, while New Game Network mentioned long matchmaking times that could affect gameplay flow. On PC, while many reviews were positive, MMORPG.com reported lag issues that could detract from the experience, and PC Gamer suggested the game felt unpolished, akin to an early access title. For the PS5, several critics, including Digital Chumps and SECTOR.sk, reported issues with multiplayer connectivity and server stability, indicating that these factors could disrupt gameplay. The overall consensus among critics is that Exoprimal performs well across all platforms, with particular praise for its ability to handle chaotic scenes filled with enemies. While Xbox Series X and PS5 versions are generally well-received, minor issues such as clunky menus and matchmaking delays have been noted, particularly on Xbox. The PC version is praised for its optimization, but some reviewers pointed out potential lag and performance inconsistencies that may stem from individual setups. Despite these criticisms, the majority of reviewers agree that the game showcases Capcom's technical prowess and offers a solid gaming experience, particularly in its multiplayer aspects. Overall, while there are areas for improvement, Exoprimal stands as a strong entry in its genre across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Exoprimal has potential for replayability with evolving gameplay and new content updates, but critics warn of its repetitive nature and limited modes, which could lead to player burnout. While some find the core experience enjoyable, most agree that the game currently lacks sufficient variety to keep players engaged long-term.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

22%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

In analyzing the opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Exoprimal, it is evident that there are some positive aspects that stand out. Several reviewers, including IGN and MMORPG.com, highlight the game's potential for replayability, thanks to its evolving gameplay and the introduction of new elements with each match. Critics like Cubed3 and XboxEra mention the variety of exosuits and the multiple progression systems available, which can keep players engaged over time. The promise of ongoing content updates and seasonal passes, as noted by Worth Playing and Push Square, further suggests that the developers are committed to enhancing the game's longevity, providing players with fresh experiences. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value, pointing to its repetitive nature and limited modes as major drawbacks. Reviewers such as Merlin'in Kazanı and LevelUp emphasize that the lack of diverse gameplay options leads to monotony, which diminishes the overall appeal after a few hours of play. The sentiment is echoed by New Game Network and Jeuxvideo.com, who note that the grinding required for unlocking new features can feel tedious. Critics like Metro GameCentral and The Jimquisition also highlight the absence of a single-player element, which contributes to the game's repetitive feel and may deter players from returning for additional play sessions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Exoprimal possesses certain elements that could enhance its replay value, such as evolving gameplay and ongoing content updates, the current experience is marred by repetitiveness and a lack of variety. Many reviewers, including Digital Trends and TheSixthAxis, acknowledge that the game has a fun core experience but caution that the limited content at launch may lead to player burnout. As a result, while some players may find enjoyment in the game’s mechanics and potential for future updates, the majority of critics agree that its replay value is currently low, with a significant need for more diverse content to retain player interest in the long run.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

81%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Exoprimal has garnered a mix of opinions from critics, with several highlighting its enjoyable gameplay mechanics and potential for future development. Reviewers like Gaming Nexus and Game Informer praise the game for its engaging combat and unique premise, which combines hero shooter elements with dinosaur hunting. Critics such as Digital Trends and Cubed3 also commend the game for its fun multiplayer experience and solid graphics, suggesting that it can be an entertaining title for casual players. Additionally, some reviewers, including Gamersky and Press Start Australia, note the game’s strong foundation, indicating that it could evolve into a more robust experience with future updates and content additions. However, the game is not without its significant flaws. Many critics express disappointment over Exoprimal's repetitive gameplay and lackluster narrative, with Merlin'in Kazanı and GamingTrend labeling it as one of Capcom's weaker titles. The overall sentiment points to a lack of innovation and depth, as noted by PCGamesN and TheGamer, making the game feel clichéd and uninspired. Critics like Windows Central and TRG emphasize that the game struggles with pacing and content issues, particularly at its full price, leading to concerns about its long-term appeal. The consensus suggests that while the game has enjoyable elements, its execution leaves much to be desired. Overall, the critical consensus on Exoprimal leans towards disappointment, with many reviewers indicating that it fails to meet the expectations set by Capcom's previous titles. While there are some positive remarks regarding its potential and initial fun factor, the repetitive nature of gameplay and lack of engaging content are major drawbacks that hinder its recommendation as a full-priced title. Critics like God is a Geek and Eurogamer highlight that the game may be better suited for subscription services like Xbox Game Pass, where players can explore its offerings without a significant financial commitment. Thus, while Exoprimal has the groundwork for a compelling multiplayer experience, it currently struggles to establish itself as a standout title in the genre.

TL;DR

Exoprimal offers fun gameplay and a unique blend of hero shooter and dinosaur hunting, earning some praise for its multiplayer and graphics. However, critics largely agree it's marred by repetitive gameplay, a weak narrative, and pacing issues, leading to disappointment in comparison to Capcom's standards. While it shows potential for future growth, many suggest it’s best suited for subscription services like Xbox Game Pass rather than a full-priced purchase.

MONSTER

Reviews

147 reviews found

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jul 24, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Exoprimal is described as extremely enjoyable with a fresh and fun gameplay experience, especially when played with a coordinated team.

Read full review

Gaming Nexus

Xbox Series X

Jul 20, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Exoprimal is described as a fun and engaging game that successfully combines elements of hero-based shooters with a unique twist on gameplay. The reviewer highly recommends it for those looking for a fresh experience.

Read full review

Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Jul 26, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Exoprimal is a worthwhile pickup, especially if you’ve got a Game Pass subscription.

Read full review

Press Start Australia

Xbox Series X

Jul 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Exoprimal is a pleasant surprise that successfully combines engaging single-player style encounters with a solid multiplayer experience. It has a unique approach to storytelling and offers a good variety of gameplay options. The opaque progression system and limited content visibility may be drawbacks, but the game has potential with future updates.

Digital Trends

PlayStation 5

Jul 20, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Exoprimal is a fun and innovative multiplayer shooter with a strong story campaign, though it faces challenges as a live-service game. It’s enjoyable for those willing to invest time into it.

Read full review

Gamer.no

Xbox Series X

Jul 25, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Exoprimal offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience with a quirky story, despite some technical issues on consoles. Worth exploring further for intense battles and teamwork-focused gameplay.

Read full review

But Why Tho?

PlayStation 5

Jul 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Exoprimal has a lot of heart and plenty of exciting moments, but it requires players to dig for them. The game receives an overall score of 8/10.

Read full review

Game Informer

Xbox Series X

Jul 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Exoprimal impresses with its absurd and entertaining story, smooth gameplay, and visually appealing design. It may not have long-term appeal for hardcore multiplayer fans, but offers a fun experience for casual players.

Read full review

The Jimquisition

PlayStation 5

Jul 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Exoprimal is a surprisingly fun and engaging game despite its flaws, with a unique blend of gameplay elements that make it enjoyable, though it suffers from poor storytelling and repetitive content.

Read full review

IGN

Jul 20, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Exoprimal is a fun and unique multiplayer experience that combines hero shooter mechanics with dinosaur hunting. While it has some repetitive elements initially, the evolving gameplay and story provide a rewarding experience for dedicated players.

Read full review