Exoprimal Review: Jurassic Mayhem
OUR RATING: 8/10
Run-and-gun action and prehistoric chaos, these are the first words that come to mind when I think about Exoprimal. Hordes and hordes of dinosaurs try to trample you while you team up and shoot them down in an insanely fun adventure. At first glance, Exoprimal may come across as a supremely silly game. With dinosaurs running amok due to time travel shenanigans, it’s hard not to crack a smile. However, beneath its absurd exterior lies a surprisingly well-crafted team shooter with a whole lot to offer. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into what makes Exoprimal such an exhilarating experience, from its hilarious premise to its finely-tuned gameplay mechanics. So strap yourselves in, and let’s go back to the prehistoric future.
Exoprimal is a third-person hero shooter that pits players against seemingly endless hordes of dinosaurs in all shapes and sizes. The main mode, “Dino Survival,” features two teams of five players battling it out for supremacy. What sets Exoprimal apart from other hero shooters is its diverse roster of Exosuits, each with unique abilities and playstyles.
The game boasts a roster of ten different Exosuits, each bringing their own flair to the battlefield. From the standard soldier type “Deadeye” to the nimble healer “Witchdoctor,” there is a wide range of options to suit various playstyles. The action is snappy and direct, with responsive characters and exciting abilities that allow for thrilling synergies and tactical maneuvers.
Exoprimal truly shines in its PvE gameplay, where players team up to take on waves of dinosaurs. The gameplay feels polished and well-tuned, a testament to Capcom’s attention to detail. The sense of satisfaction when mowing down hordes of dinosaurs is unparalleled, and the variety of missions keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging.
While the PvE aspect of Exoprimal is undeniably enjoyable, the PvP section leaves something to be desired. Balancing issues and the influence of PvE performance on PvP matches can lead to uneven and frustrating experiences. However, the ability to switch Exosuits on-the-fly adds a layer of strategic depth to the PvP battles.
Beyond the adrenaline-fueled gameplay, Exoprimal offers a surprisingly fun narrative experience. Cutscenes interspersed throughout the game tell the story of your character, Ace, and their encounters with the rogue AI Leviathan, as well as the relentless onslaught of dinosaurs. Though the storytelling is unconventional, the well-made cutscenes capture the B-movie charm reminiscent of Capcom’s classic Dino Crisis franchise.
Between matches, players have the opportunity to customize their Exosuits, both cosmetically and with new equipment. The inclusion of a battle pass and an in-game currency called BikCoin adds depth to the progression system. However, it is worth noting that the story is only a small part of the game, and the emphasis is on the thrilling gameplay rather than a deep narrative experience.
Exoprimal’s true potential unfolds as players progress through the game. The early hours may feel underwhelming and repetitive, but as new areas, missions, and boss battles are unlocked, the game starts to shine. It is in these late-game romps, with their epic 10-player battles against monstrous bosses, that Exoprimal truly comes into its own. It’s also a day-one release on Xbox Game Pass, making it more accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, Capcom’s plans for updates and collaborations with other franchises indicate a commitment to enhancing and expanding the game’s content.
Exoprimal’s blend of absurdity, intense gameplay, and captivating narrative make for a unique and thrilling experience. While the PvP aspect may need some fine-tuning, the PvE gameplay and boss battles provide hours of entertainment. With its distinct charm and potential for future growth, this is a wild ride worth taking.
