John Carpenter's Toxic Commando Xbox Playstation PC Gaming

[Strawberry Man]

John Carpenter's Toxic Commando offers a refreshing twist on the horde shooter genre, diverging from the linear structures typical of games like Left 4 Dead. Instead, it introduces a semi-open world where players can explore at their discretion, facing hordes of zombies while gathering resources and completing missions.

One of the game's standout features is the freedom it provides to players. Each map is filled with points of interest, allowing for strategic exploration. Players can choose between engaging with multiple zombie hordes for loot or heading straight for objectives, adding an element of risk versus reward. The blend of chaotic gameplay and exploration feels reminiscent of the MudRunner series, particularly with vehicle mechanics that allow for running down zombies and navigating through treacherous terrain.

Graphically, Toxic Commando excels in its depiction of mass chaos, with thousands of zombies on screen at once, resulting in satisfying moments of carnage when players trigger explosions or utilise special abilities. However, while the game impresses with its action and mechanics, the characters lack depth and personality, which is a bit of a letdown given Carpenter's legacy of memorable protagonists.

Additionally, the game includes a grinding element for upgrades and cosmetics that could deter players seeking a more casual experience. Despite these drawbacks, the sheer fun of cooperative play and over-the-top action makes Toxic Commando a title worth looking forward to for fans of the genre.