Fragpunk Game Review: Is the Game Worth Playing After Closed Beta Trials?
FragPunk combines tactical strategy with fast-paced arcade action, bringing innovative Shard Cards and unique game modes like Shard Clash and Team Deathmatch. Is this game worth a try? Let's find out!
Ever since FragPunk debuted with its first trailer, the excitement has been continual, and how much it has increased in this light since the closed beta went live does not even need explanation. This game brings a fresh twist to the well-established 5v5 hero shooter format, combining tactical and arcade shooter elements. It is going to be one hell of a standalone title in the casual shooter world.
Tactical Meets Arcade Fun
FragPunk balances strategy with fast-paced action. On the surface, it's a 5v5 hero shooter, but what the game's twist does is the introduction of rotating Shard Cards - game-changers that tweak the mechanics in real-time. Such cards bring cool modifiers, such as more headshot damage, explosive bullets, or even map changes, creating possibilities no one has predicted.
The core mode, Shard Clash, is your classic attack vs. defense setup (like Valorant or CS2), where one team plants a bomb, and the other team tries to stop them. However, with the Shard Cards at play, this mode feels fresh, adding new layers of strategy every round.
Eye-catching visuals
One of the most striking features of FragPunk is its strikingly colorful aesthetic. The game stands out among other shooters, whose toned-down colors would seem abnormally subdued in comparison, yet do not sacrifice clarity in the most hectic moments for being fun and flashy. Little particle effects on basic actions, like reloading and planting the converter, just add a touch of flair without distracting.
Art-wise, it's much like Across the Spider-Verse-like in its feel, energetic and animated. But no matter how wild things get, always it's clear what's happening on-screen.
Game Modes to Suit Your Mood
Of course, beyond Shard Clash, FragPunk has a vast slew of modes, and a prime example of these is Team Deathmatch. It's a classic mode which is popular now but perfect for those who want to dive into some quick no-fuss action.
Of course, there are also additional game modes in the near future, including the Duel Master, yet to be released. That's supposed to bring an even more diverse experience: straight-up battle-to-last-person-standing 1v1. To get things started, everyone will want practice mode, where you can team up with others or take on bots for practice ahead of real matches.
Also Read: Fragpunk Activation Codes: How to Get Codes for Closed Beta
Fast, Intense, and Fun Matches
No fragging allowed with long, drawn-out matches due to its quick time-to-kill (TTK) and best-of-seven format. FragPunk's matches do not waste time: fast-paced action and bold, aggressive tactics are encouraged.
Its fast gameplay, diversity of characters, and unique visual style make it refreshing from the other shooters competing hard for the esports scene. While that may not be its intention, that's all right because FragPunk seems to be built for those who just want to have fun. If it can keep its healthy player base and continue to deliver on what makes it great, FragPunk will easily be the go-to game for anybody looking to just sit down and play a casual, action-packed shooter.
Room For Improvement
Despite FragPunk’s exciting gameplay and stylish design, two main issues have popped up so far. The biggest concern is the movement speed. While the gun animations, music, and menus are all fast-paced and energetic, the actual movement feels way too slow in comparison. The default speed seems sluggish, especially in such a dynamic game. The speed boost card feels like it should be the default speed, or maybe even a bit faster. A simple tweak in movement speed could take the gameplay to the next level, making it feel much more fluid and fun.
The second issue, though minor, is the menu system. While it fits well with the overall art style, the menus feel a bit cluttered. Navigating through the options, especially when customizing guns or checking settings, can get a little confusing with so much going on. While it’s only been out for a short time, streamlining the interface a bit could make things much smoother for players.
Even though it's still in closed beta, FragPunk already feels like a solid and polished game and definitely worth a shot. With it's amazing mechanics and gameplay, all while combating the current issues through player feedback, Fragpunk can easily make it's way up amongst the other FPS games in the market.
