Exterminauts, a new cooperative game from Behaviour Interactive, presents a distinct vision within the co-op shooter genre. While initial impressions might draw parallels to titles like Helldivers 2, the developers assert that their project, conceived well before its 2024 counterpart, offers a unique thematic and gameplay experience. Far from being interstellar freedom fighters, players assume the roles of blue-collar exterminators tasked with clearing alien threats from corporate-owned planets, a premise that resonates more with the industrial sci-fi aesthetic of Deep Rock Galactic.
The game's alpha build reveals a design philosophy that prioritizes accessibility and diverse playstyles. Players choose 'sponsors' that function as soft classes, each providing passive benefits and a signature weapon. Complementary gadgets such as ammo replenishment, healing devices, and autonomous turrets can be deployed to aid in combat. Although the initial demo showcased lower difficulty settings, suggesting a more relaxed pace, the game's array of distinct plant-based alien creatures promises to challenge players as the difficulty scales, encouraging strategic use of class abilities and gear.
A Fresh Approach to Co-op Gameplay
Exterminauts differentiates itself from other co-op shooters by focusing on a corporate-driven narrative and accessible gameplay mechanics, creating a more laid-back experience in its early stages. Despite superficial resemblances to other popular titles, the game carves its own niche by portraying players as industrial pest controllers working for resource extraction, rather than idealized heroes. This thematic choice permeates the game's mission design and the overall atmosphere, offering a unique flavor in the co-op landscape.
During the preview, the game's combat felt straightforward, with responsive weapon controls and ample resources, minimizing pressure on players. The mission structures, often involving resolving computer-based puzzles within facilities, echoed elements found in other games but with a less urgent tempo. The developers' decision to feature imaginative, plant-like alien lifeforms, including six-legged carnivorous plants and flying spiked flora, provides a refreshing change from typical bug or robot adversaries. These distinct enemy types hint at a deeper tactical layer that will likely become more pronounced at higher difficulty settings, encouraging players to explore the nuances of each class and their associated upgrades.
Evolving Challenges and Customization
The progression system in Exterminauts, featuring unlockable firmware for class modification, suggests a depth that will become more critical as players tackle advanced challenges. These upgrades, ranging from elemental damage bonuses to health regeneration upon eliminations, allow for significant customization and strategic builds, making each class distinct and adaptable to various combat scenarios. The developers' commitment to continuous updates and seasonal content indicates a long-term vision for evolving gameplay and player engagement.
Behaviour Interactive plans regular updates, including 12-week seasons that introduce new 'sponsorship packages' comprising weapons, gadgets, cosmetic items, and firmware modifications. These additions are designed to be readily available through regular gameplay, with an option for early acquisition via real-money purchases. While the preview build, played on lower difficulties, sometimes lacked the intense sense of urgency found in other co-op shooters, the promise of more demanding content and the extensive customization options hint at a rich and engaging experience. The game's solid foundational mechanics and imaginative creature design provide a promising platform for future development, indicating that Exterminauts could become a compelling and dynamic entry in the co-op genre as it matures.
