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Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun
Item: Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Shooter, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableMay 23, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperAuroch Digital

Overview

Load up your Boltgun and unleash the awesome Space Marine arsenal to blast your way through an explosion of sprites, pixels and blood in a perfect blend of Warhammer 40,000, frenetic gameplay and the stylish visuals of 90’s retro shooters.

Elsewhere

7.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics agree that Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun has a minimal, simplistic story that mainly serves as a backdrop for gameplay rather than a compelling narrative. While fans may appreciate its straightforward plot about a Space Marine's mission, many reviews describe the narrative as "paper thin" and lacking depth. Ultimately, the game excels in action but falls short in storytelling, making it more appealing to hardcore fans than newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun from various critics is that it serves primarily as a backdrop for the gameplay rather than a focal point of the experience. Many reviewers, such as GameMAG and Nintendo Life, appreciate the straightforward nature of the story, which involves a Space Marine on a mission to retrieve an artifact or purge Chaos forces. Critics like Gamer.no highlight that, while the narrative is not complex, it effectively captures the fantasy of being a Space Marine, which may resonate well with fans of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Additionally, Pure Xbox notes that the game is engaging even for players who may not be familiar with the extensive lore, making it accessible to a broader audience. On the flip side, numerous critics pointed out the minimal and often simplistic nature of the story. Windows Central and ZTGD describe the narrative as "paper thin," with most of the plot delivered through a floating skull that comments on the environment rather than through character development or rich storytelling. Critics like Gamersky and GameSpot echo this sentiment, stating that the story is basic and serves merely as an excuse to drive the action forward, lacking depth and originality. Furthermore, several reviews, including those from GameSpew and SECTOR.sk, emphasize that the narrative is not well-developed and fails to utilize the rich lore of the Warhammer 40,000 universe effectively. The overall consensus among critics is that while Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun provides a functional story that sets the stage for its action-oriented gameplay, it ultimately falls short in terms of depth and complexity. Many reviewers, including Eurogamer and IGN, agree that the narrative is minimal, often described as "suitably paltry" or "not much of a story." Despite its shortcomings, some critics like Impulsegamer and KeenGamer appreciate the straightforward setup and connection to previous titles in the franchise, suggesting that the game may still appeal to fans of the series. Overall, the critics seem to agree that the game's strengths lie in its gameplay rather than its storytelling, which, while functional, does not elevate the experience significantly.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun impresses with fast-paced, nostalgic FPS action and satisfying gunplay, earning praise for its fun mechanics and weapon variety. However, critics highlight significant flaws, including repetitive enemy encounters, simplistic AI, and tedious boss fights, leading to a decline in enjoyment. While the game offers thrilling moments, issues with level design and navigation dampen the overall experience, resulting in a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its fast-paced and frenetic action reminiscent of classic first-person shooters. Many reviewers, including Push Square and GameSpot, praised the satisfying gunplay and the variety of weapons available, with the titular Boltgun being highlighted as a standout. Critics like Destructoid and WellPlayed noted the game's engaging combat mechanics and fluid movement, which contribute to a sense of power and excitement as players navigate through hordes of enemies. The nostalgic feel of the gameplay, drawing on elements from the 90s FPS genre, has also been well-received, with IGN Adria and Gamer.no emphasizing the action-oriented nature and skill-based gameplay that encourages exploration and replayability. However, the gameplay experience is not without its drawbacks. Several critics pointed out issues with level design and encounter variety, with New Game Network and We Got This Covered criticizing the repetitive nature of enemy encounters and the lack of nuance in gameplay. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and GRYOnline.pl echoed these sentiments, noting that simplistic enemy AI and unbalanced difficulty levels can lead to a decline in enjoyment over time. Additionally, some critics, such as Pocket Tactics and Softpedia, mentioned the lack of a map, which can complicate navigation and detract from the overall experience. Boss fights were also described as tedious, with TheGamer referring to them as "bullet sponges," further contributing to the perception of repetitiveness in gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun delivers an enjoyable and engaging gameplay experience with its fast-paced action and satisfying gunplay, it suffers from issues related to level design and encounter variety. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and GameMAG highlighted the fun and frantic nature of the gameplay, but many also noted the game’s tendency to become repetitive and simplistic over time. The blend of nostalgic elements with modern mechanics has created a mixed reception, where the exhilarating moments of combat are occasionally overshadowed by design flaws that hinder the overall experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun impresses with its nostalgic graphics, blending retro pixel art and modern tech, earning praise for its vivid portrayal of the Warhammer universe. Critics celebrate the combat visuals and the grimdark atmosphere, appealing to fans old and new. However, the game faces criticism for bland, repetitive level design, visual clutter from its pixelated style, and inconsistent texture quality. Overall, while it successfully channels classic shooter vibes, it lacks innovation and variety, indicating room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly for their nostalgic homage to classic first-person shooters. Many reviewers, such as IGN Italia and GGRecon, praised the game for its effective blend of retro aesthetics with modern technology, capturing the essence of the Warhammer 40,000 universe through vibrant pixel art and detailed environments. The use of a mix of 2D sprites and 3D environments was highlighted by XboxEra and CGMagazine, who noted that the visual effects during combat, particularly enemy destruction, were impressive. Critics like WellPlayed and Meristation appreciated the game's ability to evoke the grimdark atmosphere of its source material while maintaining a cohesive visual style that appeals to both nostalgic players and newcomers alike. However, despite the overall praise, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the game's graphics and level design. For instance, Game Rant described the levels as bland and repetitive, indicating that the deliberate design choices to replicate 90s FPS games sometimes resulted in a lack of innovation and variety. Pocket Tactics mentioned that the heavily pixelated style could lead to visual clutter, making navigation difficult, particularly on handheld devices. Additionally, GameWatcher and Player 2 noted that while some weapon models and enemy sprites looked great, certain textures felt washed out, and the level design did not consistently match the quality of the character models, leading to confusion about navigation. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun successfully captures the nostalgic feel of classic shooters while incorporating modern design elements. While the pixelated art style and retro aesthetics received significant praise from many, including New Game Network and TechRadar Gaming, there were consistent mentions of the game's limitations in level design and visual clarity. Critics like Games.cz and Gamer.no acknowledged that while the graphics are appealing, they do not push the boundaries of innovation, leaving some reviewers to feel that the game could benefit from more variety and clearer visual cues. Ultimately, Boltgun stands as a tribute to the past, resonating with fans of the genre while also facing critiques that highlight its areas for improvement.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun boasts an acclaimed sound design, with critics praising its immersive weapon sounds and pulse-pounding soundtrack that enhances gameplay. However, issues arise on platforms like the Nintendo Switch, where sound quality falters, and some reviewers find the soundtrack forgettable. Overall, while the audio landscape captivates many, inconsistencies and lack of standout tracks hinder universal acclaim, leaving room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun have generally received positive acclaim from critics across various platforms. Reviewers like GameMAG and Pure Xbox highlight how the sound design significantly enhances the game's atmosphere, with superb weapon sounds and a fitting soundtrack that contributes to moments of fear and immersion. Critics from PC Gamer and TechRadar Gaming commend the pulse-pounding soundtrack and impactful sound effects, emphasizing how these elements elevate the gameplay experience. The visceral audio feedback described by GameSpot, with its cacophony of sounds during intense firefights, further illustrates the effectiveness of the sound design in creating a dynamic gaming environment. The industrial and metal-infused tracks have been particularly praised for their ability to complement the high-octane action, as noted by KeenGamer and XboxEra. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music that cannot be overlooked. Some reviewers, such as Gamer.no and Softpedia, point out issues with the sound quality on certain platforms, particularly the Nintendo Switch, where the sound design faced challenges. Additionally, while many praised the soundtrack, others, like GamingTrend and Metro GameCentral, found it to be largely forgettable or bland, missing the heavy metal intensity that could have further enhanced the experience. We Got This Covered also criticized the sound design as muddled and flat, indicating that not all critics were satisfied with the audio presentation. Furthermore, some reviews mentioned inconsistencies in audio quality during intense moments, which could detract from the overall immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun features strong sound design and a generally effective soundtrack, there are inconsistencies that prevent it from being universally acclaimed. Reviewers like Eurogamer and Gamersky appreciate the satisfying audio cues and impactful weapon sounds that contribute to the immersive experience, yet some critics express disappointment with the soundtrack's lack of standout tracks or aggressive themes. The game succeeds in creating an engaging audio landscape, but the mixed feedback on the music and sound quality across different platforms indicates that there is room for improvement.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun is a mixed bag. Critics praise Rahul Kohli's standout performance as the Space Marine for adding depth and personality, enhancing engagement. However, many note the minimal use of voice acting outside cutscenes hinders immersion and story comprehension. While some appreciate the cheesy tone, overall sentiment reveals a divide: impressive performances overshadowed by insufficient dialogue throughout the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

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

The voice acting in Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun has received considerable praise from several critics, particularly for the performance of Rahul Kohli, who voices the nameless Space Marine. Reviewers from TheXboxHub and GameCritics highlight Kohli's ability to infuse the character with personality and depth, enhancing player engagement. Gamer.no echoes this sentiment, noting that Kohli's performance, while perhaps unnecessary, adds an engaging layer to the character. Additionally, critics like KeenGamer commend both Kohli and Rachel Atkins for their remarkable performances, contributing to the grimdark atmosphere of the Warhammer universe. The inclusion of entertaining lines and quotes, as noted by PC Gamer and GameSpot, further enriches the character's personality, making the voice acting a standout feature for many players. However, not all reviews are as enthusiastic about the voice acting in Boltgun. A number of critics, including Eurogamer and TechRadar Gaming, mention that the voice acting is minimal and does not play a significant role in the overall experience. LevelUp criticizes the lack of voice acting outside of cutscenes, which can hinder story comprehension during gameplay. The Jimquisition also points out that while there are some character expressions, the depth of the voice acting, particularly from the Servo Skull, is lacking. This sentiment is echoed by several other reviewers who find the minimal dialogue insufficient for a fully immersive experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divided opinion on the voice acting in Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun. While many, such as TheXboxHub and GameCritics, celebrate Rahul Kohli's performance as a highlight, others express disappointment with the minimal use of voice acting throughout the game. Critics like Worth Playing appreciate the cheesy tone of the limited dialogue, suggesting it aligns well with the game's overall aesthetic. Ultimately, the voice acting is seen as a mixed bag, with standout performances from key characters but a general lack of depth and engagement in the broader context of the gameplay experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun shines on Xbox Series X and PC with solid performance and 60 FPS, earning praise from critics. However, the Nintendo Switch version struggles with optimization and control issues, leading to a subpar experience. While PC reviews are mostly positive, some critical performance hiccups exist, suggesting inconsistent gameplay across platforms. Overall, the game excels in some areas but needs fixes to ensure a smooth experience everywhere.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with notable strengths particularly on the Xbox Series X and PC. Critics such as Pure Xbox and Windows Central praise the Xbox Series X version for its flawless performance at 4K and 1080p resolutions, respectively, with the latter maintaining a steady 60 FPS. ZTGD echoes this sentiment, stating that the game runs "fantastically" on the Series X without any slowdown. On the PC side, the consensus is largely positive, with multiple reviewers like COGconnected and Game Rant highlighting its polished performance and solid frame rates. Eurogamer and Gamersky also report smooth gameplay with no significant technical issues, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience. However, the reviews also reveal several weaknesses, particularly on the Nintendo Switch and PC. Critics like Gamer.no and Pocket Tactics note that the Switch version suffers from optimization issues, leading to performance drops and visual problems during intense moments. Nintendo Life points out finicky controls and the absence of gyro controls, which detracts from the gameplay experience. On the PC front, while many reviews are positive, GameCritics mentions instances where the game "tends to jam," and XboxEra highlights a significant performance issue during the final level, where the game chugs at 20 FPS. These inconsistencies suggest that while the PC version generally performs well, there are critical moments that can disrupt gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun excels on the Xbox Series X and PC, with both platforms receiving commendations for their technical performance. However, the Nintendo Switch version is notably criticized for its optimization issues, which detract from the experience. While the majority of PC reviews are favorable, concerns about specific performance hiccups and gameplay mechanics are noted, suggesting that while the game is largely well-received, there are areas that require attention. The mixed opinions reflect a game that, despite its strengths, may not deliver a consistently smooth experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun offers fun combat and replay incentives like multiple difficulty levels and secrets, appealing to boomer shooter fans. However, critics agree its lack of multiplayer, repetitive design, and shallow progression hurt long-term replay value, leaving players wanting more depth and variety.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

12%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

82%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun reveal some positive aspects that could entice players to revisit the game. Many reviewers, such as GameMAG and GGRecon, highlight the variety of weapons and engaging combat mechanics, which can create a compelling experience for fans of the boomer shooter genre. The inclusion of multiple difficulty levels, as noted by Worth Playing and Meristation, adds a layer of challenge that can encourage players to replay the game to fully experience its mechanics. Additionally, the presence of secrets and power-ups, as mentioned by Impulsegamer and XboxEra, suggests that exploration can yield rewards, further enhancing the potential for replayability. However, a significant number of critics point out various limitations that detract from the game's replay value. The absence of multiplayer or co-op modes, highlighted by Pure Xbox and WellPlayed, is a recurring complaint that many feel restricts the game's longevity. Critics such as Gamer.no and Game Rant emphasize that the repetitive nature of level design and enemy encounters can lead to a monotonous experience, limiting the desire to replay the game. Furthermore, several reviews, including those from Eurogamer and GRYOnline.pl, note that the lack of depth in character progression and variety in environments may hinder the overall replayability, making it difficult for players to feel compelled to return after their initial playthrough. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun offers some enjoyable gameplay elements and potential for replayability through its difficulty settings and secrets, it ultimately suffers from a lack of variety and depth. Many reviewers, including Destructoid and Softpedia, express that the game's repetitive design and absence of multiplayer modes significantly limit its appeal for multiple playthroughs. As a result, while the game may satisfy fans of the genre in the short term, its long-term replay value appears to be constrained, leaving many players with a sense of missed opportunities for deeper engagement.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun reveals a mix of appreciation and critique, with several positive aspects highlighted by critics. Many reviewers commend the game for its nostalgic homage to classic 90s shooters, with GameSpot noting its "contagious reverence" for the genre and the Warhammer universe. Critics like GamingBolt and GameSpew emphasize the enjoyable gameplay mechanics and engaging combat, while KeenGamer praises the immersive visuals and sound design. The game's aesthetic and art design have also received accolades, with Metro GameCentral describing it as a "fascinating retro shooter" that aligns well with the Warhammer 40,000 lore. Furthermore, some reviews, such as from Destructoid and PC Gamer, highlight the game as a solid entry point for both fans of the franchise and newcomers to the genre. However, the critiques of Boltgun reveal significant flaws that detract from the overall experience. Reviewers like We Got This Covered and GRYOnline.pl express disappointment in the game's encounter design and level structure, suggesting that these issues prevent it from being truly engaging. IGN Adria and PlayStation Country point out flaws in weapon balance and repetitive boss encounters, while Eurogamer mentions design inconsistencies that hinder the game's potential. Critics such as SpazioGames and Gamezebo also note a lack of innovation and depth in exploration and narrative, suggesting that while the game is fun, it does not push the boundaries of the genre. The consensus among critics is that Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun is a mixed bag, appealing primarily to fans of the Warhammer universe and those nostalgic for retro FPS games. While many reviewers, including GameMAG and GGRecon, recommend the game for its enjoyable core gameplay and aesthetic, they also acknowledge its shortcomings in level design and narrative depth. Overall, the game is seen as a solid tribute to the boomer shooter genre, but it may not resonate as strongly with players unfamiliar with the franchise or those seeking a more innovative experience. Critics like TheSixthAxis and TechRadar Gaming encapsulate this sentiment by suggesting that while the game has its merits, it ultimately falls short of excellence.

TL;DR

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun garners mixed reviews, praised for its nostalgic 90s shooter vibes and engaging combat, but criticized for encounter design flaws and lack of innovation. While fans of the franchise will likely enjoy its retro aesthetic and solid core gameplay, newcomers may find it lacking depth and excitement. Overall, it’s a fun tribute to the genre, but not a groundbreaking experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

98 reviews found

KeenGamer

Jun 12, 2023

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

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun delivers a satisfying power fantasy gameplay experience with a well-crafted narrative, immersive visuals, exceptional sound design, and remarkable voice acting, making it a must-play for fans of the WH40k universe.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jun 6, 2023

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

The game is highly recommended, appealing to both Warhammer fans and those who are not familiar with the franchise. The budget price is also mentioned as a positive aspect.

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Hooked Gamers

Jun 7, 2023

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

The review gives the game a fun score of 9.0 out of 10 and praises the satisfying weapons, classic Doom-style gameplay, and enemy variety. It also mentions that the game may not appeal to those who are not already fans of Warhammer 40k or Doom.

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Impulsegamer

May 23, 2023

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

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun is a pitch-perfect adaptation that captures the satirical tone of the Warhammer 40K setting. It is a game that both fans of Doom clones and 40K will adore, achieving what it sets out to do on every front.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

May 23, 2023

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

Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun is praised as one of the best boomer shooters, combining retro gameplay with the Warhammer 40,000 universe, making it a must-play for fans of both genres.

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GameMAG

Xbox Series X

May 23, 2023

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

Overall, the game is praised as a great gift for fans and considered the best shooter in the Warhammer 40,000 universe, deserving a place in the top 10 games of 2023.

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GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

May 25, 2023

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

Fans of the classic arena shooter genre will be thrilled with Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun. The game is praised for its gameplay, art design, and technical performance, with the only critique being the lack of a map feature.

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COGconnected

May 24, 2023

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

Fluid, fun action with classic mechanics and good use of the 40K license

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PC Gamer

May 23, 2023

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

Boltgun is praised as an exceptional Warhammer 40,000 game that successfully combines retro FPS elements with the franchise's lore, making it a must-play for fans.

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ZTGD

Xbox Series X

Jun 5, 2023

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

Boltgun is one of those games and even non-fans of the universe owe it to themselves to check it out. It is visceral, addictive, and paced extremely well.