Killzone: Shadow Fall
Top Critic Average
Critics Recommend
Critic Reviews for Killzone: Shadow Fall
It's all the more frustrating that Shadow Fall fails to establish that identity, because it gets so close in its early design and themes. It sets up an open-ended tactical shooter in a cynical world of sci-fi realpolitik - and then bottles it, taking the easy escape route of another suicide mission into empty spectacle. There's a lack of confidence here that contrasts starkly with Guerrilla's dazzling, sure-footed command of the new hardware. It's a game that any new PlayStation 4 owner will be proud to show off - but it won't be one they remember by the time PS5 rolls around.
Killzone: Shadow Fall is a worthy game to purchase alongside your PlayStation 4.
Killzone: Shadow Fall is the most beautiful next-gen console game on the PlayStation 4, and while it does wonders with its presentation value and impressive new levels of visual fidelity, it doesn't do enough to innovate on its campaign story and gameplay offerings.
Sure, Killzone: Shadow Fall has its lulls, but it's a mostly enjoyable experience from start to finish. This is no doubt the PlayStation 4's strongest exclusive launch title.
I had more fun with this entry than any other game in the series
Killzone: Shadow Fall's multiplayer plays to the series' key strengths. It's too bad the campaign forgot to turn on the heat.
That absence of meaningful evolution might be Killzone: Shadow Fall's biggest sin. For all the next-gen bluster of its visuals and the repeated blunt-force attempts to ram a message home, Guerilla's first shot on the PS4 retreads shooter cliches, and poorly. In a launch lineup crowded with shooters, Killzone: Shadow Fall sits at the bottom.
The campaign is a real drag, but Shadow Fall's multiplayer props up the package with its fun, configurable action.
Industry Coverage
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Killzone fans criticize developer Guerrilla Games as it fails to make any mention of the franchise's recently-passed 20th anniversary.
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One Guerrilla Games developer reveals the reason why the Killzone franchise hasn't been seen and has some bad news for fans waiting on a new entry.
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