This top-down slasher/shooter, released in 2012, presents a distinct fusion of rapid-paced action and a surreal, neon-lit aesthetic. Players assume the role of a hitman who receives cryptic, anonymous phone calls that instruct him to eliminate targets at various locations. The core gameplay involves meticulously planning and executing violent encounters, often necessitating multiple attempts for successful completion.

The game is accessible across a broad spectrum of platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita, Google Stadia, Xbox Series X|S, Android, Mac, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch, ensuring wide availability.

Story, Setting, and Atmosphere

The narrative progresses through a series of increasingly bizarre and disorienting visions, prompting players to assemble the fragmented story. Set in a stylized 1980s Miami, the game's atmosphere is characterized by its vivid neon illumination, pulsating electronic soundtrack, and an underlying sense of unease. The anonymous calls function as the primary narrative impetus, propelling the protagonist through a cycle of violence with minimal explanation, contributing to a dreamlike and often unsettling experience.

Core Gameplay Mechanics and Unique Features

At its foundation, this is a strategic slasher/shooter where precision and swift reflexes are critical. Each level presents a self-contained challenge, typically requiring the elimination of all enemies within a room or building. The central mechanic involves approaching each encounter with a plan, leveraging the environment for cover and tactical advantage. The game features an unlockable system of masks, each bestowing different gameplay-altering abilities or weapon proficiencies, thereby encouraging experimentation and replayability. Weaponry spans from firearms to melee implements, offering varied approaches to combat. The gameplay is notable for its high difficulty and permadeath, compelling players to learn enemy patterns and master the controls to survive.

What makes this game unique?

The distinctive combination of its brutal yet methodical combat, alongside its unique visual style and unsettling narrative, sets it apart. The emphasis on trial-and-error, where failure serves as a learning opportunity, cultivates a unique sense of accomplishment upon overcoming difficult challenges. The unlockable masks introduce significant strategic depth, allowing players to customize their approach to each mission.

How does the gameplay loop work?

The gameplay loop consists of receiving a mission briefing via an anonymous phone call, followed by entering a level. Players must then navigate the environment, eliminate all enemies utilizing a combination of stealth, firearms, and melee attacks, and reach the exit. Failure typically results in immediate death, necessitating a restart of the level. Success unlocks the subsequent mission and potentially new masks or weapons.

Additional Content

This main game does not include any downloadable content (DLCs), expansions, or remakes. The core experience is presented as a complete, self-contained package.