A retro first-person shooter inspired by Blood, Duke Nukem 3D, and Rise of the Triad. REVEREND is a dark, twisted tale with religious undertones, terrifying creature designs and one hell of a personality.
The game aims to capture the essence of classic 1990s first-person shooter games, and it succeeds in delivering an authentic retro experience. Heavily inspired by iconic titles such as Blood, Duke Nukem 3D, and Rise of the Triad, the gameplay focuses on fast-paced, old-school FPS action. Players take on the role of a disillusioned former reverend, tasked with fighting back against the demonic forces that have overrun the church.
One of the highlights of the gameplay is the diverse array of distinctive and powerful weapons available to the player. The arsenal includes a satisfying double-barreled shotgun, a unique "Teeth Gun" that fires projectile teeth, and a special "forbidden fruit" weapon that explodes on contact with enemies, providing a unique and explosive method of dispatching the demonic hordes.
The environments are designed to be both visually striking and mechanically challenging. Players will encounter a diverse array of enemies, from twisted, humanoid cultists to grotesque, otherworldly monstrosities, each with their own unique behaviors and attack patterns. The enemy designs are both terrifying and visually captivating, requiring players to adapt their strategies to overcome the demonic threats.
The game encourages exploration, with hidden secrets, resources, and easter eggs scattered throughout the levels. Players who take the time to search the grisly environments are rewarded with valuable items or humorous references to other classic games and media. The level design is praised for its intricate layouts and the satisfying feeling of backtracking to previously explored areas after acquiring new keys or abilities.
Despite its retro aesthetic, the gameplay is generally described as smooth and responsive, capturing the essence of classic FPS titles. The movement and controls are fluid, allowing players to strafe, crouch-jump, and navigate the environments with a sense of momentum and precision. The game's difficulty is also noted as being well-balanced, providing a reasonable challenge without becoming overly frustrating.