REVIEW / Death Elevator for PS5

As I’ve been gaming over the years, one thing that strikes me increasingly is how gamers seem perpetually unsatisfied. When developers introduce fresh, innovative mechanics into our favorite genres, there’s a chorus of complaints that things have changed too much. Stick too closely to the old ways, though, and you’ll hear grumbles about games being clones and the gameplay becoming dull. Complexity is another issue; give us intricate options, and we feel overwhelmed. Strip it back to basics, and suddenly it’s all too simple and monotonous. It’s like we’ve reached a saturation point. We’ve played so much that everything starts to feel comparable, and often it seems we’re not really sure what we actually want from a game. This sentiment is especially relevant when discussing today’s focus, Death Elevator — a game that might split opinions based on each person’s idea of what makes a game enjoyable.

Let’s dive into what Death Elevator is all about. The concept couldn’t be more straightforward: you step into an elevator and proceed from floor to floor, taking down adversaries. Think back to the simplicity of games like the original Team Fortress or Quake. There are no complex systems to navigate—just grab your weapon and clear out the enemies on your current floor. Once the coast is clear, the elevator doors reopen. For shooter fans accustomed to skill trees and detailed load-outs, this stripped-down approach might feel primitive. But if you’re a gamer like me, who grew up during an era without all these extras, it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane. By foregoing character progression, you get to laser-focus on honing your core shooting skills.

What really stands out for me in Death Elevator are two key elements. First is its visual style. The game leans towards a minimalist, blocky aesthetic reminiscent of Superhot, and it complements the simple gameplay beautifully. Secondly, there’s a cool mechanic where time slows down when you’re in the line of fire, allowing you the chance to dodge or even shoot incoming bullets. While ingenious, it only triggers with bullets you can see, so it won’t help if you’re shot from behind. This mechanic requires a balance of attention and can occasionally be frustrating when you’re caught unaware.

Regarding the storyline – there’s a narrative here, but it unfolds gradually as you progress. Without an initial prologue to orient you, you’re left piecing together information from brief story snippets. In this way, the focus firmly stays on the game’s core: relentless action. No spoilers here because, truthfully, the plot details are still a bit obscure to me as well!

All considered, Death Elevator offers an entertaining and addictive experience. I appreciate the bold graphic choices and the game controls feel intuitive and responsive. It really boils down to your gaming preferences—whether you relish speed runs or crave a tough challenge, this game has got you covered. The unforgiving lack of checkpoints might appeal to players who enjoy an arcade-like difficulty spike.

For gamers who thrive on character development and sophisticated weapon load-outs, Death Elevator might feel a bit lacking. The mystery around the plot might also be off-putting for those who seek depth and immersion through storytelling. Nonetheless, for old-school shooter fans like me, there’s plenty to enjoy here. It’s perfect if you’re itching to try something new but doesn’t aim to deliver a complex, strategic experience.

Summing up Death Elevator, it’s a rising star in the FPS world. It’s quite a blast, but certainly not for everyone. It’s simple and challenging, making it a hit for arcade enthusiasts, though others might be better off looking for epic worlds and intricate strategies elsewhere.

Overall Rating: 8/10

An Enjoyable FPS: While Death Elevator is certainly a fun experience, it might not appeal to every shooter aficionado. Its straightforward gameplay and challenging nature might deter some players. However, if you’re looking for an arcade-like challenge, this game might just be your next favorite.