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MONSTER

Warhammer 40,000: Darktide

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

2022

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Shooter, RPG, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableNov 30, 2022

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperFatshark

Overview

From the developers of the best-selling and award-winning franchise Vermintide, Warhammer 40,000: Darktide is a visceral 4-player co-op action game set in the hive city of Tertium. Fight together with your friends against hordes of enemies in this new Warhammer 40,000 experience.

Elsewhere

7.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Warhammer 40k: Darktide nails grim atmosphere and cooperative action but falters with a hollow, mission-driven narrative that prioritizes gameplay over storytelling, leaving its lore-rich setting as a backdrop rather than a compelling experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

81%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The story of Warhammer 40,000: Darktide receives mixed but generally balanced praise for its atmospheric setting and foundational elements. Critics like Eurogamer Poland and Finger Guns highlight the game’s strong worldbuilding and environmental storytelling, noting that the dark, futuristic universe of Warhammer 40k is effectively conveyed through its grim visuals and lore-rich environments. COGconnected acknowledges the basic but coherent narrative structure, where players assume the role of an Operative fighting Nurgle’s forces, while SpazioGames and Windows Central appreciate how character dialogues and interactions add depth despite the story’s minimalism. The game’s premise—focusing on redemption, cooperative missions, and the Inquisition’s authority—is seen as a solid framework for its gameplay-driven approach, with some critics like God is a Geek praising its setup for co-op play. However, the narrative is widely criticized for being underdeveloped and secondary to gameplay mechanics. GameSpot and IGN France argue that the story feels like background lore, skippable for newcomers, while Ragequit.gr and Vandal call it a “pretext” with incoherent missions and a lack of narrative cohesion. Hooked Gamers and MMORPG.com note that the straightforward, mission-based structure prioritizes action over storytelling, leaving little emotional or thematic weight. GamingBolt and PlaySense criticize the forgettable cutscenes and half-baked storytelling, with Push Square pointing out that even a renowned writer like Dan Abnett couldn’t salvage the plot’s lack of detail. The story’s reliance on character banter and environmental cues to compensate for its thin narrative is seen as a mixed blessing, offering some charm but failing to engage deeply. Overall, critics agree that Darktide’s story serves more as a backdrop than a central pillar, with gameplay taking precedence. While Eurogamer Poland and Finger Guns acknowledge the game’s strengths in worldbuilding and character interactions, most concur that the narrative lacks depth, emotional resonance, and coherence. The consensus leans toward it being a competent but unremarkable entry in the Warhammer 40k universe, with its story feeling more like a functional framework than a compelling experience. Despite this, the game’s focus on cooperative action and its faithful representation of the setting earn it some goodwill, even if the narrative itself remains a secondary concern for many players.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Darktide thrives as a chaotic, co-op masterpiece with slick gunplay, class synergy, and mission variety, but its repetitive combat, clunky progression, and balancing hiccups drag down an otherwise stellar experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Warhammer 40,000: Darktide receives widespread praise for its engaging co-op focus, dynamic combat mechanics, and class-based customization. Critics like COGconnected highlight the game’s emphasis on four-player missions with varied objectives, such as defending positions or protecting squadmates, while Eurogamer Poland notes the shift toward firearms over melee combat, creating a more strategic experience. Finger Guns and GameSpot commend the gameplay loop for its mission variety and class synergies, with PC Invasion praising the well-designed missions and unique abilities per class. Ragequit.gr and SpazioGames emphasize the addictive nature of the combat, particularly on higher difficulties, while IGN France lauds the satisfying gunplay and melee mechanics. The game’s core loop—combining frenetic action with tactical decision-making—resonates strongly across reviews, especially for fans of looter-shooters and cooperative play. However, several critics point to notable flaws that detract from the experience. Twinfinite criticizes the repetitive melee-focused combat and lack of class diversity, while MMORPG.com and PlaySense note the slow progression system and repetitive gameplay loops after reaching max level. Finger Guns highlights balancing issues with weapons and difficulty spikes on higher tiers, and Hooked Gamers suggests the progression system could be more refined. Additionally, some reviewers, like XGN, acknowledge the strategic elements but imply that the game’s complexity can feel overwhelming at times. While these critiques vary in severity, they collectively point to areas where the gameplay could benefit from further polish or structural adjustments. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with most agreeing that Darktide excels as a co-op shooter with tight combat and class-driven variety. GamingBolt and God is a Geek praise its near-perfect first-person mechanics and teamwork emphasis, while Push Square and Windows Central highlight the engaging mission design and strategic depth. Despite the criticisms about repetition and progression, the game’s core gameplay remains a standout feature, with many reviewers—such as IGN France and Ragequit.gr—calling it one of the strongest aspects of the title. The balance between praise and critique suggests that while Darktide is not without flaws, its strengths in cooperative action and combat design make it a compelling experience for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Stunning visuals and immersive grimdark atmosphere anchor Darktide, but repetitive design, optimization hiccups, and underwhelming character models undermine its polish, leaving a mixed legacy of artistic ambition versus technical shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews for Warhammer 40,000: Darktide highlight a strong emphasis on capturing the franchise’s signature grimdark aesthetic and immersive world-building. Many critics praise the game’s art direction, with Finger Guns noting "stunning visual design" that brings the Warhammer 40K universe to life through detailed enemy designs and atmospheric environments. MMORPG.com commends the "impressive visuals" enhanced by Ray Tracing, which adds vibrancy to the dystopian settings, while SpazioGames describes the graphics as "artistically superb," emphasizing the meticulous attention to detail in environments that blend industrial and religious elements. Additionally, GamingBolt and God is a Geek highlight the PS5’s performance mode, with the latter praising the "visually arresting" grimdark atmosphere and effective lighting. These positives collectively underscore the game’s success in translating the IP’s lore into a visually compelling experience. However, several critics point to technical and design shortcomings that detract from the visual experience. Eurogamer Poland and Windows Central both cite optimization issues, with players forced to lower settings due to stability problems, while Twinfinite and GameSpot criticize repetitive level design, noting "dark, factory look" environments that feel monotonous. PlaySense and Push Square mention a lack of distinctiveness in locations and underwhelming character models, respectively, with the latter describing characters as intentionally "ugly." Additionally, some reviewers, like GameSpot, argue that the levels "quickly blend together," lacking the variety needed to sustain engagement. These critiques suggest that while the game’s visual style is strong, its execution faces challenges in maintaining consistency and technical polish. Despite these criticisms, there is a general consensus that Darktide succeeds in delivering a visually immersive experience rooted in the Warhammer 40K universe. While some reviewers, like COGconnected, acknowledge that the graphics "aren’t cutting-edge," they argue that the gameplay’s intensity makes such flaws less noticeable. Meanwhile, critics like Ragequit.gr and XGN praise the game’s ability to blend gothic architecture, futuristic elements, and horror aesthetics effectively. The mixed reception reflects a balance between technical limitations and artistic ambition, with many agreeing that the visuals align well with the IP’s tone, even if they fall short of pushing graphical boundaries. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of a game that prioritizes atmosphere and thematic cohesion over raw technical prowess, earning praise for its art direction while acknowledging areas for improvement.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics raved about Darktide's sound design and Jesper Kyd’s haunting, bass-driven soundtrack, calling it a masterclass in immersive, grimdark atmosphere that elevates combat tension and world-building—though rare technical hiccups couldn’t dim its acclaim.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the sound design and music of Warhammer 40,000: Darktide as a standout element that significantly enhances the game’s immersive quality. Jesper Kyd’s soundtrack was frequently highlighted for its ability to capture the chaotic, grim atmosphere of the Warhammer universe. Eurogamer Poland noted that Kyd’s “phenomenal music” adds to the “immersive experience and is highly addictive,” while GamingBolt described it as a “fantastic soundtrack” that “captures the chaos and grandeur” of the setting through bass-heavy beats and electronic elements. The sound design itself received universal acclaim, with COGconnected commending the “effective voice work, amusing banter, and synth-based score that enhances the frenetic battles,” and SpazioGames praising the “eerie mutant cries and fast-paced gunfire” complemented by an “epic soundtrack.” Finger Guns and Windows Central also emphasized the “excellent sound design” and “immersive sound effects,” which heightened the gameplay experience. The music’s ability to amplify tension during combat and reinforce the game’s dark, dystopian tone was a recurring theme among reviewers. While most critiques were overwhelmingly positive, a few noted minor drawbacks. Ragequit.gr acknowledged that the background music left a “good impression, especially during action sequences” but warned that technical optimization issues “impact the overall experience.” This suggests that while the audio design itself was strong, performance inconsistencies on certain platforms may have detracted from its effectiveness. However, this criticism was isolated and did not overshadow the general enthusiasm for the soundtrack and sound effects. Other reviewers, such as God is a Geek and PlaySense, focused exclusively on the positives, highlighting how the “immersive sound design” and “music effectively set the tone of the game,” reinforcing the Warhammer universe’s atmosphere without mentioning any significant flaws. The overall consensus among critics was that Darktide’s sound design and music were exceptional, with nearly all reviewers praising their contribution to the game’s immersive and atmospheric depth. Jesper Kyd’s work stood out as a defining feature, with multiple outlets—Eurogamer Poland, GamingBolt, and Vandal—celebrating its ability to blend epic, electronic, and dark techno elements that align perfectly with the game’s grimdark aesthetic. The voice acting, combat sound effects, and ambient design were also consistently lauded for their quality and attention to detail, as noted by COGconnected, Finger Guns, and SpazioGames. While technical issues mentioned by Ragequit.gr provided a rare point of contention, they did not diminish the broader acclaim. Collectively, the reviews underscore that Darktide’s audio elements were a critical success, effectively enhancing both its narrative and gameplay mechanics in ways that resonated with critics across platforms.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in Darktide is a standout triumph, elevating immersion, humor, and cooperative storytelling with stellar performances that deepen Warhammer lore—though some critics note it leans on familiarity over technical innovation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Warhammer 40,000: Darktide is widely praised for its immersive quality and contribution to the game’s atmosphere. Critics like COGconnected highlight how the voice work enhances cooperative gameplay through "amusing banter," while Finger Guns lauds it as "stellar," noting its role in deepening immersion and complementing the game’s worldbuilding. MMORPG.com emphasizes that character interactions during missions immerse players in the Warhammer lore, and GamingBolt applauds the "entertaining banter" between playable characters and well-crafted lines for side characters. God is a Geek also credits the voice acting for enriching squad dynamics, while PlaySense describes it as "good," positively impacting the game’s immersive experience. These reviews collectively underscore how the vocal performances elevate the narrative and cooperative elements, making them a standout feature of the game. While most critiques are positive, some reviewers note minor limitations. IGN France acknowledges that character dialogues are enjoyable for Warhammer fans but avoids detailing voice acting quality, suggesting a lack of specificity in their assessment. Similarly, Ragequit.gr points out that player-created characters rely on "specific voice-overs" to shape personality, implying that the choice of voice may influence perception but doesn’t address the technical quality of the performances. Though no outright criticisms are raised, these comments hint at a focus on narrative and customization over the nuanced delivery or emotional depth of the voice acting itself. This suggests that while the vocal work is effective, it may not consistently push the boundaries of technical excellence. Overall, the critics’ consensus leans heavily toward appreciation for the voice acting’s role in enhancing immersion, humor, and storytelling. The majority of reviews—particularly from COGconnected, Finger Guns, MMORPG.com, and PlaySense—highlight its effectiveness in supporting the game’s cooperative and lore-driven design. While some critiques remain vague or focused on customization rather than performance quality, the collective praise underscores that the voice acting is a cohesive and impactful element of Darktide. The lack of significant negative feedback further reinforces that the vocal work meets expectations for a Warhammer title, even if it doesn’t revolutionize the genre’s standards.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

PC struggles with instability, crashes, and poor optimization; PS5 shines with smooth performance and better polish despite minor hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

38%

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

The technical performance of Warhammer 40,000: Darktide varies significantly across platforms, with notable positives for both PC and PS5. On PC, critics like Windows Central and XGN acknowledge that while the game faced major technical issues at launch, updates have addressed many problems, though some bugs persist. However, the PS5 port receives widespread praise for its stability and optimization. GamingBolt highlights the PS5’s smooth gameplay and excellent use of the DualSense controller, while God is a Geek and IGN France note consistent performance even during intense combat. PlaySense also commends the PS5 version for its lack of crashes or bugs post-launch, suggesting that the platform benefits from better optimization compared to PC. Despite these positives, the technical challenges on PC are more pronounced. Critics like COGconnected, Eurogamer Poland, and SpazioGames emphasize persistent frame rate instability, poor optimization, and low FPS even on high-end hardware, with some requiring upscaling tech (Ragequit.gr) to achieve smoother performance. PC Invasion and Twinfinite report long loading times, crashes during cutscenes, and inconsistent settings that demand manual tweaking. On PS5, while most reviewers praise the experience, Push Square and Vandal note frame rate dips during tense moments, indicating that even the console version isn’t entirely free of technical hiccups. These issues highlight a clear disparity in how the game is optimized across platforms. Overall, critics agree that Darktide struggled with technical performance on PC at launch, with many calling for better optimization and post-launch fixes. However, Windows Central and XGN note gradual improvements, suggesting the developers are addressing key issues. For PS5, the consensus leans toward a more polished experience, though not flawless, as seen in IGN France’s praise for smooth gameplay and Vandal’s acknowledgment of minor performance dips. While PC remains a mixed bag with ongoing optimization challenges, the PS5 version is generally viewed as technically superior, reflecting the platform’s capabilities and the developers’ efforts to refine the experience post-launch.

TL;DR

technical performance

PC struggles with instability, crashes, and poor optimization; PS5 shines with smooth performance and better polish despite minor hiccups.

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Warhammer 40k: Darktide delivers addictive co-op fun with class variety and loot, but repetition, flawed progression, and missing features threaten its long-term appeal—replayability hinges on updates.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The positive aspects of Warhammer 40,000: Darktide’s replay value are highlighted by multiple critics who emphasize its cooperative gameplay, character customization, and evolving content. COGconnected praises the game’s “lots of replayability” through varied starting classes, mission diversity, and future updates, while Eurogamer Poland notes that mission variety, difficulty levels, and modifiers enhance long-term engagement. Finger Guns and GameSpot both commend the game’s class-specific abilities, loot systems, and team dynamics, with GamingBolt (on PS5) highlighting “hundreds of hours of playtime” due to weapon progression, crafting, and talent trees. Additionally, God is a Geek and IGN France acknowledge endgame content and customization as key drivers for replayability, while Push Square praises the game’s 20+ missions across six zones. These elements collectively suggest that Darktide offers a robust foundation for repeated playthroughs, particularly for fans of co-op action. However, several critics point to significant drawbacks that may limit its replay value. Hooked Gamers and MMORPG.com criticize the “limited content” and repetitive gameplay, with the latter noting that the game’s mechanics can feel monotonous over time. Finger Guns and GameSpot raise concerns about equipment randomness, lack of crafting options, and underdeveloped progression systems, while PC Invasion and Windows Central highlight slow leveling and mission redundancy. Ragequit.gr and SpazioGames also point to missing features like private lobbies and incomplete systems, which could frustrate players seeking deeper customization or structured challenges. Twinfinite and PlaySense further note issues with melee combat mechanics and repetitive environments, suggesting that the game’s appeal may wane without substantial updates or refinements. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Warhammer 40,000: Darktide has strong replayability potential but requires improvements to fully realize it. While GamingBolt and God is a Geek are optimistic about its endgame and progression systems, others like Vandal acknowledge that the game’s “improvement over time” with updates makes it worth engaging with, even if some community requests remain unaddressed. The mixed feedback reflects a balance between the game’s cooperative appeal and its technical shortcomings—many agree that Darktide is enjoyable for short-term play but may struggle to retain players without addressing issues like content depth, progression clarity, and feature polish. Ultimately, it remains a title with promise, particularly for fans of co-op action, but one that needs sustained development to maximize its replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall verdict for Warhammer 40,000: Darktide is largely positive, with critics highlighting its strengths in cooperative gameplay, immersive atmosphere, and strong foundation for a Warhammer experience. COGconnected emphasizes the game’s “cooperative gameplay,” “replayability,” and “variety of classes,” while Finger Guns praises its “strong gameplay loop” and “visual and sound design.” Eurogamer Poland calls it a “solid entry in the cooperative FPS genre,” noting its “dark atmosphere” and “addictive music.” Similarly, GamingBolt commends its “great co-op gameplay,” “expert art direction,” and “customization options,” while God is a Geek highlights its “tight shooting mechanics” and “immersive atmosphere.” The game’s potential for growth is also frequently cited, with critics like SpazioGames and XGN acknowledging its “artistic excellence” and “beautifully dark atmosphere,” despite early issues. These elements collectively paint a picture of a game that excels in creating an engaging co-op experience rooted in the Warhammer universe. However, several critics point to significant flaws that hinder the overall experience. GameSpot criticizes the “unappealing visuals,” “lack of distinctiveness in levels,” and “cosmetics pricing issues,” while SpazioGames notes a “lack of story” and “incomplete features,” comparing it to an early access title. Twinfinite calls it “shallow” due to “stability issues” and “lack of content,” and Windows Central highlights “major technical issues” and “limited optimization.” Eurogamer Poland’s 6/10 score reflects concerns about the game not standing out in a crowded genre, while Push Square points to “technical performance” and “crafting systems” as areas needing refinement. Additionally, IGN France acknowledges that despite improvements, the game still requires “further development for a complete experience.” These critiques underscore persistent technical and design challenges that detract from its polish and long-term appeal. Despite these shortcomings, the consensus among critics is that Darktide has significant potential, particularly with continued developer support. COGconnected and PC Invasion both note its “potential for an extended life” and “good action experience,” while Ragequit.gr calls it a “worthy addition to Fatshark’s Warhammer games” but stresses the need for more polishing. Similarly, PlaySense and Vandal highlight that the game has “evolved into a solid title” with “significant improvements” and “potential for future content.” While some critics, like GameSpot and SpazioGames, argue it feels incomplete, many agree that its core mechanics and thematic strengths—such as its “team synergy” (GameSpot) and “immersive sound design” (Windows Central)—make it a compelling entry for Warhammer fans. The overall sentiment leans toward optimism, with the game being seen as a promising but unfinished project that could flourish with time.

TL;DR

Praise for co-op, atmosphere, and Warhammer roots—yet technical hiccups, shallow content, and polish issues hold it back; a promising but incomplete experience needing refinement to shine.

MONSTER

Reviews

110 reviews found

GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

Dec 4, 2024

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

Warhammer 40,000: Darktide has grown into a fantastic title with great co-op gameplay, expert art direction, and plenty of customization options, despite its forgettable main narrative.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Dec 3, 2024

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

Warhammer 40K: Darktide on PS5 is recommended for its solid performance, tight shooting mechanics, immersive atmosphere, and engaging cooperative gameplay, making it a great action game for fans of the universe.

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Hooked Gamers

Dec 21, 2022

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

An excellent sci-fi co-op FPS experience that may not reach the quality of the previous title but is still enjoyable for Warhammer and co-op FPS fans.

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Ragequit.gr

Jan 16, 2023

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

Warhammer 40,000: Darktide offers fun gameplay but has problems and shortcomings attributed to a rushed release. It is considered a worthy addition to Fatshark's Warhammer games but needs more polishing and support.

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COGconnected

Dec 1, 2022

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

Warhammer 40,000 Darktide is praised for its cooperative gameplay, replayability, variety of classes, and effective use of the Warhammer license. Despite some technical issues, the game is off to a great start and has the potential for an extended life with continued support from the developers.

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Vandal

PlayStation 5

Dec 27, 2024

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

Warhammer 40,000: Darktide is a strong recommendation for cooperative action fans, showcasing significant improvements and potential for future content.

XGN

Dec 28, 2022

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

Warhammer 40,000: Darktide offers intense combat, strategic depth, and a beautifully dark atmosphere, but was marred by technical issues at launch. With ongoing support from the developer, it has the potential to be a great game.

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MMORPG.com

Jan 4, 2023

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

Warhammer 40000: Darktide is an immersive and fun experience that delivers graphically with RTX on, but loses some appeal without it. The gameplay is satisfying and challenging, but the repetition may leave players wanting more. The game has the potential to offer a unique experience for those seeking a challenging gameplay environment.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Dec 3, 2024

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

A fantastic co-op shooter with strong gameplay and atmosphere, despite some shortcomings in technical performance and crafting systems.

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GameSpot

Dec 2, 2022

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

Darktide is praised for its combat mechanics, pacing, and team synergy, but criticized for its unappealing visuals, lack of distinctiveness in levels, and issues with cosmetics pricing and rewards. The game is seen as a promising entry in the genre with fixable flaws.

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