Biomutant
A unique evolutionary effurt
FORMAT PS4 / ETA 25 MAY / PUB THQ NORDIC DEV EXPERIMENT 101 / PLAYERS 1
Charles Darwin was onto something, but he never considered the effect of radiation, bio-contamination, and martial arts on the evolutionary process. Exploring Experiment 101’s fantasy world sees your furry hero evolving to accommodate the challenges ahead.
Quite the sight in motion, Biomutant both reminds us of other open-world adventures and in turn shocks us into seeing something new. Your little hero is small against this world, the developer playing with scale to present a vastness often lacking in sandboxes.
You have the ability to travel how you see fit, and the game virtually demands you explore its verdant jungle, silky-smooth waters, and high peaks. Your character can evolve to move how you wish, unlocking new abilities to leap higher or control aspects of the world. The further into the land you push, the weirder things get; explore the radioactive bunkers of the ‘old world’ – warrens beneath the world teasing secrets – to evolve mental abilities such as telekinesis.
When evolution fails you, various vehicles, including air balloons, jet skis, and mechs, are available to commandeer. Each enables you to attack enemies in new creative ways and reach unimaginable heights. New gear helps too; for example, a gas mask enables you to enter toxic Dead Zones while crafted clothing protects you against extreme heat and cold.
FUR FIGHTER
If exploration teases nuance as you evolve to discover new areas, combat is all-out wacky - literally, as attacks are spelled out in comic-book words as they land. Scattered through the world are martial arts masters who’ll teach you new techniques. Throw in crafted weapons and upgrades, evolved powers, and abilities, and Biomutant’s combat promises a lot.
IMPRESSIONS
This one’s been in hibernation for two years, and the time spent out of sight appears to have been well spent. A fur-real hit? We’ll diffur until next issue’s review.