H1Z1: Battle Royale
Top Critic Average
Critics Recommend
H1Z1: Battle Royale Media
Critic Reviews for H1Z1: Battle Royale
H1Z1 checks all of the boxes needed to be a competent battle royale game, but in its main mode it lacks a distinctive sense of character. Without the realistic depth and modular weaponry of PUBG or the wacky base-building antics of Fortnite, its streamlined design rushes toward straightforward, fast-paced action instead and ends up being dull as often as it is exciting. The more interesting thing about H1Z1 is its innovative Auto Royale mode, which translates battle royale mechanics to vehicular combat in a way we haven't seen done better elsewhere.
With a variety of game modes, H1Z1 offers a solid battle royale experience with lots of customization unlocks
The PS4 version of H1Z1 Battle Royale provides a simple, streamlined experience with the thrills of the genre's high-stakes combat. Nothing more, nothing less. [OpenCritic note: Michael Higham separately reviewed the PC (6) and PS4 (7) versions. His scores have been averaged.]
H1Z1 may well have been inspired by the original version of PUBG, and it shows, but in Auto Royale it provides one of the most fun battle royale modes out there.
With the lack of in-game customization options, a small variety of weapons, and a relatively shallow and repetitive experience, H1Z1 doesn't do much to separate itself from the pack.
Solid is the word I would use to describe H1Z1: Battle Royale on PlayStation 4. It's not the prettiest of games or the most clever, but it does what it does really well and it is a great alternative for those who find all the tree chopping and base building in Fortnite very tiresome. H1Z1 is off to a great start on PlayStation 4 and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
While H1Z1: Battle Royale doesn't do anything particularly special yet, it sets up a solid foundation that can be expanded with future events and additions, a la Fortnite. It earns its battle royale name, but never tries to stand above the rest of the crowd, instead opting to play it safe with the basics. Without knowing if or when PUBG might come to PS4, H1Z1: Battle Royale gives players an ample replacement if they'd rather not get into Fortnite. Daybreak just needs to start hosting some interesting events and updates in order to keep players hooked and interested going forward. I wouldn't say no to a little bit of work on those visuals either. Until then, I think I'll just go watch the movie that inspired this whole gaming trend.
Overall, H1Z1 may be a pioneer of the Battle Royale craze, but in the games current form, it just cannot stack up against PUBG and Fortnite due to its lack of focus, polish, and overall content
