Evolve (PS4)

Status:

• Complete in Box
• Play Tested

Evolve (PS4) Review

Genre: Multiplayer Shooter / Asymmetric Online
Developer: Turtle Rock Studios
Publisher: 2K Games
Release Date: February 10, 2015

Overview:
Evolve is a unique multiplayer shooter that pits a team of four hunters against a single, powerful monster in a dangerous environment. The game is designed around an asymmetric multiplayer experience, where players must strategize and cooperate to either hunt the monster or dominate as the monster itself. Developed by Turtle Rock Studios, creators of Left 4 Dead, Evolve offers intense, tactical gameplay in a dynamic, ever-changing ecosystem.

Pros

1. Innovative Asymmetric Gameplay:

   • The central premise of Evolvefour hunters vs. one monstercreates a thrilling dynamic where players can either work together to take down the monster or play as the monster and hunt the hunters.
   • The gameplay is tense and exciting, with the balance of power constantly shifting.

2. Diverse Hunter Classes:

   • The game offers a variety of hunters, each with unique abilities and roles: Assault, Support, Medic, and Trapper.
   • This variety ensures that players can find a playstyle that suits them and encourages teamwork, as each class is crucial for success.

3. Engaging Monster Gameplay:

   • Playing as the monster offers a different experience entirely, with players taking on the role of a powerful creature evolving throughout the match.
   • Monsters can level up by consuming wildlife and evolve into more powerful forms, leading to intense battles with the hunters.

4. Impressive Visuals and Environments:

   • The maps in Evolve are beautifully designed, with lush jungles, desolate caves, and vast open spaces.
   • Environmental elements, like wildlife and dynamic weather, can influence the outcome of matches.

5. Strategic Gameplay:

   • Every match requires tactical decision-making, whether youre the hunters working together to corner and defeat the monster, or the monster trying to outsmart and outpower the hunters.
   • The cooperation required from the hunters creates a strong sense of teamwork and camaraderie.

6. Strong Team Dynamics:

   • The success of the hunter team depends heavily on player coordination and communication, leading to rewarding teamwork experiences.
   • Working together to track, corner, and engage the monster offers a satisfying challenge.

Cons

1. Lack of Content at Launch:

   • While Evolve offers an interesting concept, its launch felt light on content, with only a few maps and characters available. This limited variety could make matches feel repetitive over time.
   • The reliance on downloadable content (DLC) to unlock new monsters, hunters, and maps led to criticism about the game's value.

2. Matchmaking Issues:

   • At launch, Evolve struggled with matchmaking, especially in solo or non-premade teams. This resulted in long wait times and difficulty finding balanced games.
   • Later in the game's life, finding active matches became increasingly difficult as the player base shrank.

3. Limited Single-Player Options:

   • While Evolve is designed primarily as a multiplayer experience, the single-player content is limited and feels like an afterthought.
   • Players could play against AI, but this lacks the excitement and unpredictability of human opponents.

4. Repetitive Gameplay:

   • While the core gameplay is fun, the repetitive nature of hunting down the monster or being the monster across multiple matches can start to wear thin.
   • Without enough variety in the maps and gameplay modes, matches can feel too similar after a while.

5. Unbalanced Monsters:

   • Some players felt that certain monsters were overpowered, leading to frustration during matches.
   • Balancing the different monsters was an ongoing issue throughout the game's life cycle.

Verdict

Evolve introduced an exciting and unique multiplayer experience with its asymmetric hunter vs. monster gameplay, offering intense, tactical battles. However, its lack of content at launch, matchmaking issues, and reliance on DLC hurt its long-term appeal. While the core concept remains engaging, Evolve suffers from repetitive gameplay and limited single-player options, ultimately making it a title that works best with a dedicated group of friends rather than solo play or public matchmaking.

Score:

• Multiplayer Enthusiasts: 7.5/10
• Teamwork Lovers: 8/10
• Casual Players: 6.5/10

While Evolve is a thrilling multiplayer experience, its marred by content limitations and technical issues that prevent it from reaching its full potential. For those who enjoy working as a team or want to experience the thrill of hunting down a monster, Evolve offers a fun (but niche) experience.