Step onto the lawless island of Blackreef, a vibrant and dangerous locale trapped in an endless time loop. Players assume the role of Colt, an assassin tasked with breaking this cycle by eliminating eight key targets before the day resets. However, Colt is not alone in his pursuit; he is relentlessly hunted by Julianna, a rival assassin dedicated to preserving the loop. This immersive adventure blends shooter and adventure genres, offering a unique approach to problem-solving and combat.

The Premise: Breaking the Cycle

The core of the experience revolves around understanding and manipulating the repeating day. Each loop presents an opportunity to learn the routines of the targets, discover new pathways, and experiment with different strategies. The island of Blackreef is a meticulously designed environment, filled with secrets and opportunities for creative gameplay. Success hinges on careful observation, strategic planning, and skillful execution across multiple attempts.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

This title emphasizes player freedom, allowing for a variety of playstyles. Whether you prefer a direct assault, stealthy infiltration, or a combination of both, the game provides the tools to achieve your objectives. Players can utilize a range of powerful weapons and unique supernatural abilities, often referred to as "Slabs," which can be acquired and equipped to enhance Colt's capabilities. These abilities can be combined and upgraded, offering significant depth to combat and traversal.

The gameplay loop involves exploring different districts of Blackreef across four distinct time periods within the loop. Information gathered in one period can be carried over to the next, aiding in the planning of assassinations. The island itself is a character, with its own inhabitants and events that change based on the time of day and player actions.

The Time Loop and Player Agency

The central mechanic of the time loop is what sets this game apart. It's not just a narrative device; it's the foundation of the gameplay. Players are encouraged to experiment and fail, using each reset as a learning opportunity. This iterative process of discovery and refinement is key to progressing through the narrative and achieving the ultimate goal of breaking the cycle.

The Dual Assassin Dynamic

A significant aspect of the experience is the presence of Julianna. In certain scenarios, players can be invaded by another player controlling Julianna, adding a layer of unpredictable PvP combat. This dynamic introduces a constant threat and ensures that no two playthroughs are exactly alike, as players must adapt to the presence of a skilled, human opponent.

Basic Game Information

This is a main game, released in 2021. It is available on PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), and Xbox Series X|S.

How do players approach objectives?

Players can approach objectives in numerous ways, leveraging a combination of firearms, melee combat, and supernatural abilities. The open-ended level design and the variety of tools available allow for significant player agency in how they choose to eliminate targets and navigate the island.