Ripout Review

Ripout carves a distinct path in the FPS genre by injecting a hefty dose of space horror into the familiar trope of scavenging derelict vessels. Players take on the daunting role of salvage workers, venturing into the claustrophobic confines of these abandoned behemoths. Here, grotesque mutations and the ever-present threat of lurking nightmares replace the usual spacefaring bravado with a constant sense of dread.

A Symphony of Terror

Ripout excels in crafting an unsettling atmosphere. The derelict ships themselves are great in grotesque world-building. Flickering emergency lights cast long, distorted shadows across mangled corridors, while the ever-present sounds of the decaying vessel add a layer of unnerving anticipation. The sound design deserves praise, with alien growls constantly keeping you on edge. Every footstep echoes in the vast emptiness, leaving you continually on guard for the next unseen horror.

Mastering the Pet Gun System

One of Ripout’s most intriguing features is its unique “Pet Gun” system. Instead of relying on a traditional arsenal of firearms, players wield living symbiotes that can morph into various weapon types. This injects a strategic layer into combat encounters, forcing players to adapt their tactics on the fly. Imagine seamlessly switching between a writhing tendril that rips enemies apart at close quarters to a pulsating bio-cannon for long-range assaults, all from the same pulsating biological companion. Mastering this symbiotic dance becomes a key to survival, rewarding players who can think strategically and adapt to ever-changing threats.

When Ripout Truly Shine

While Ripout can be tackled as a lone wolf, it truly shines in cooperative mode. The thrill of strategizing with friends, eliminating grotesque threats, and desperately scrambling for an extraction point creates a truly exhilarating and suspenseful experience. Communication and teamwork become paramount – coordinating fire, reviving fallen comrades, and strategically utilizing each player’s unique Pet Gun becomes the difference between a successful extraction and a horrifying demise.

The Power of Cooperation

Ripout’s co-op mode is a masterclass in fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared dread. Pet Gun specialization becomes a core tenet of success. Imagine designating a player to focus on crowd control with a bio-flamethrower while another lays down suppressive fire with a bio-rifle. This specialization allows for a cohesive and adaptable team composition.

Here Communication is the Key. Victory hinges on clear and concise communication. Calling out enemy flanks, requesting revives, and coordinating Pet Gun usage in real-time creates a tense but rewarding dance of survival. Imagine a teammate desperately calling for cover as you unleash a hail of bio-bullets, suppressing an enemy horde while they reach safety. The beauty of procedurally generated levels lies in the constant challenge. Every run feels fresh, demanding on-the-fly adaptation and forcing players to rely on their communication and teamwork to overcome unforeseen obstacles.

Ripout Needs Polish for Solo Players

However, Ripout isn’t without its flaws. While the level design undeniably contributes to the oppressive atmosphere, it can feel repetitive after a string of playthroughs. The reliance on procedural generation means a lack of handcrafted set pieces, which could have further enhanced the horror experience by offering more memorable and meticulously crafted scares. Additionally, the game can be quite unforgiving in solo mode. Enemy difficulty doesn’t seem to scale down accordingly, leaving lone players feeling overwhelmed and outnumbered. The strategic nuances of the Pet Gun system and the challenges of navigating the procedurally generated environments feel best suited for a well-coordinated team.

Ripout: A Must-Try for Co-op Enthusiasts

Ripout is a compelling FPS that offers a unique blend of action, horror, and cooperative gameplay. The tense atmosphere, the interesting weapon system, and the replayable nature of the procedurally generated levels make it a worthwhile experience, especially for those seeking a thrilling space adventure with friends. While repetitive level design and solo difficulty issues prevent it from reaching its full potential, Ripout’s co-op mode shines brightly. If you’re looking for a fresh take on the FPS genre with a strong emphasis on atmosphere and cooperation, grab your friends, strap in, and prepare for a wild, horrifying, and strategically demanding ride through the decaying corridors of space’s forgotten vessels.

The review code was provided by the publisher