MADNESS: Project Nexus is a third-person Run n' Gun / Beat'Em Up filled with arcade-style action and button-mashing brutality. Gun your way through droves of bad guys in the Story Campaign, or build your perfect killing machine in the neverending onslaught of Arena Mode.
Players can freely choose from a wide variety of combat approaches. Wielding firearms allows them to gun down enemies from a distance, but ammo is limited, forcing players to scavenge for more guns. Melee weapons enhance players' ability to block and parry attacks. Even unarmed combat is a viable option, as players who master the techniques can unleash "serious rampages" with their bare hands.
The combat mechanics offer substantial depth and responsiveness. Players can pull off satisfying combos and maneuvers, utilizing techniques like blocking, parrying, and executing finishing moves. This layered combat system rewards experimentation and mastery of the controls.
In the game's arena mode, players can build their own custom warrior from the ground up. They progress through skill tiers, unlocking new abilities and outfitting their fighter with the latest weapons and technology. The skill trees provide detailed information on the available techniques, aiding players' understanding of the systems.
The arena mode's sandbox-like environment offers immense replayability. Players can pit squads of enemies against one another, experimenting with different weapon and hireling combinations. The diverse array of environments, from killer game shows to haunted houses, and the varied enemy types further contribute to the game's longevity.
The game's difficulty curve is a point of praise, as it rewards mastery of the mechanics. However, the steep learning curve and lack of in-depth tutorials can be off-putting for newcomers. Those who persevere and overcome the challenge are met with a satisfying, skill-based experience.