A new experience with a serious yet intriguing story.
Humanity has disappeared, and the world is now ruled by machines that use blood as fuel. With resources on the surface nearly depleted, these machines are forced to descend into hell. The story sets the stage for an endless journey into the depths, where survival depends not only on weapons but also on speed, skill, and style.
Inspired by Dante's Inferno, the game's campaign takes you through multi-faceted environments that become increasingly strange and dangerous. Each descent feels meaningful, reinforcing the idea that hell is not just a place but a system that tests the player's abilities at every level.
Movement is Survival, Speed is Power
Ultrakill's gameplay is based on constant movement. Standing still is rarely an option. Players have access to a variety of movement abilities - sprints, slides, jumps, and advanced techniques - to evade attacks and dominate the battlefield. Enemies are aggressive and relentless, forcing players to think quickly and constantly reposition themselves.
This emphasis on mobility makes combat a fast-paced, almost dance-like experience. Success comes not from careful maneuvers but from maintaining momentum amidst the chaos.
Weapons for Variety and Expression
ULTRAKILL's arsenal is both powerful and versatile. Each weapon has multiple variants, encouraging experimentation and the development of individual play styles. Rather than relying on a single "best" option, players are rewarded for switching weapons and adapting their strategy to different encounters.
The game's health system adds depth to combat: players regenerate health by engaging enemies in melee combat. This mechanic encourages aggressive play and emphasizes the game’s core principle: attack is survival.
Style, Rank, and Skill-based Progression
The game rewards stylish and effective combat through its rank and combo system. Defeating enemies quickly and creatively earns style points and increases your rank at the end of each level. These points can be used between missions to unlock and upgrade weapon types, rewarding skillful gameplay.
Optional challenges and hidden objectives add depth and motivate players to replay levels and master the game mechanics. Higher ranks aren’t just rewards; they also demonstrate a deeper understanding of the game’s mechanics.
Level 8: Deception - A Glimpse into the Future
One of the most exciting aspects of ULTRAKILL's future is the announced Level 8: Deception update, which is still in development. This upcoming content features some of the most stunning designs we've seen yet. Starting with a haunted, hotel-like lobby, the environment transforms into otherworldly spaces with rapidly changing geometry.
These new areas demand adaptability, forcing players to rethink their movements and positioning in an ever-changing layout. While the core combat system remains familiar, the environments themselves present a new challenge, showcasing the creativity and ambition of the developers.
Powers, Challenges, and Early Access Reality
ULTRAKILL skillfully blends classic shooter design with the stylish combat systems of action games like Devil May Cry. It combines the intense action of 1990s shooters like Quake with the fluid controls and stunning graphics of modern titles like DOOM (2016).
However, the game's difficulty can be daunting. New players may find the pace too fast, as the game demands precision, quick reflexes, and constant focus. Additionally, being in Early Access, the content is still under development, which may prevent players from expecting a polished experience.
A Brutal Yet Rewarding Experience
ULTRAKILL combines speed, skill, and style impressively. It challenges players to master movement, weapon variety, and combat techniques in a world where hesitation is punished. The level of difficulty won't appeal to everyone, but those looking to learn the game's mechanics will find it an unforgettable and rewarding adventure.
