Preview: Level Zero: Extraction – Unleashing Asymmetrical Horror and Survival

22/06/2024

    Level Zero: Extraction is a multiplayer extraction horror game developed by DOGHOWL Games and published by tinyBuild. Set to release on August 6, 2024, this game blends asymmetric survival horror with extraction shooter mechanics, delivering a unique and immersive multiplayer experience. Players engage in tense encounters as either human mercenaries or alien monsters, navigating a dark, hostile environment where light and shadow play crucial roles. 


Gameplay Mechanics

Human Gameplay

In Level Zero: Extraction, human players navigate alien-infested environments, focusing on repairing power systems, collecting loot, and managing light sources to fend off alien threats. Light serves as a defensive tool against aliens but also reveals human positions to other players. The game offers a range of weapons and gadgets, including rifles, flamethrowers, and motion sensors, adding strategic depth. Up to three players can team up to complete objectives while contending with two player-controlled aliens.

Alien Gameplay

Playing as an alien introduces a different set of challenges. Alien players aim to sabotage human efforts and eliminate them using abilities like acid spit and EMP blasts. They can also lay traps to hinder human progress. The game's dark corridors and vent systems provide strategic advantages, making alien gameplay intense and dynamic.


Unique Features

  • Light and Darkness Mechanics: The interplay between light and darkness adds a tactical layer, where light protects humans from alien attacks but also makes them visible to other players.
  • Dynamic Interactions: Planned future updates suggest the possibility of temporary alliances between rival teams to tackle common threats, adding social strategy elements.
  • Progression System: A deep progression system allows players to unlock new perks, items, and weapon attachments. Alien abilities can be upgraded by collecting eggs scattered throughout the map, enhancing their lethality.

Atmosphere and Setting

Set in the year 2058 on the planet Turion, Level Zero: Extraction unfolds amidst a catastrophic event involving the "New Horizons" Corporation. The game's dark, immersive environments and atmospheric setting enhance the horror experience, making each encounter tense and gripping.

Early Access and Future Prospects

With its early access launch set for August 6, 2024, Level Zero: Extraction promises to provide players with a fresh take on multiplayer horror. The closed beta, starting March 15, 2024, offers an early glimpse into the game's mechanics and immersive world.


Highlights of the Game

Unique Premise and Atmosphere

Level Zero: Extraction stands out with its innovative combination of horror and extraction shooter elements. The game creates a tense and immersive atmosphere through its dark, sci-fi setting and engaging mechanics, offering a fresh take on multiplayer horror.

Engaging Asymmetrical Gameplay

The dynamic PvPvE gameplay allows human teams to navigate an alien-infested facility using light to fend off monsters. This mechanic introduces significant strategic depth, requiring players to balance staying hidden from other players while protecting themselves from alien threats.

Innovative Light Mechanics

Light management as a defensive tool against aliens adds a unique tactical element to the game. This feature encourages players to think strategically about their movements and resource usage, enhancing the gameplay experience.

Voice Chat and Communication

The seamless implementation of in-game voice chat enhances team coordination and immersion, crucial for a multiplayer game focused on teamwork and strategy.


Areas for Improvement

1. Balance Issues

Currently, the game favors alien players, making survival challenging for human mercenaries. Aliens have superior mobility and vision, creating a steep learning curve for new players.

2. Lack of Alien Progression

Unlike human characters, aliens lack meaningful progression and customization options. Introducing a more robust progression system for aliens could enhance their appeal and maintain game balance.

3. Performance Optimization

Performance issues, including frequent crashes and high GPU usage, hinder the gameplay experience. Addressing these technical problems is essential for smoother performance across different systems.

4. Gameplay Fairness

The gameplay can feel uneven, particularly for solo players. Mercenaries often face disadvantages due to aggressive aliens and limited defensive tools. Balancing these elements can reduce frustration and improve overall enjoyment.



Conclusion

Level Zero: Extraction offers a promising concept with its unique blend of horror and extraction shooter elements. The game's innovative mechanics, atmospheric setting, and engaging gameplay make it a compelling addition to the horror multiplayer genre. With thoughtful adjustments and optimizations, Level Zero: Extraction has the potential to become a standout experience for players seeking a thrilling and strategic horror adventure.

Suggested Improvements

Rebalancing Gameplay

Adjusting the balance between mercenaries and aliens is crucial for fairer encounters. Consider tweaking alien abilities and cooldowns or providing more resources and defensive options for human players.

Enhancing Alien Progression

Introducing a progression system for aliens, including customization and upgrade options, would provide more incentives for players to engage with the alien role, enhancing overall game balance.

Technical Optimization

Focusing on optimizing the game to reduce crashes and improve performance will be vital for a positive player experience, ensuring the game runs smoothly on various hardware configurations.

Map and Spawn Adjustments

Reviewing and adjusting spawn points and map layouts can prevent unfair advantages and improve match flow. Ensuring players can explore and strategize without being immediately overwhelmed will enhance gameplay enjoyment.


Join the Conversation

What do you think of Level Zero: Extraction?

  • Have you had a chance to play it during the closed beta?
  • Is it on your wishlist for the upcoming early access release?
  • What aspects are you most excited about?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!


This preview was written by Frank
If you enjoy reading reviews on Steam, you might already know his work. If you'd like to get in touch with Frank, feel free to contact us. 

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