Sci-fi shooters have come a long way, often emphasizing shooting and aesthetics. While this approach has its merits, there’s a certain charm to a high-action sci-fi shooter that intertwines a captivating narrative. Luckily, in my short time with Phantom Fury at PAX East, I saw a game that boldly steps into this narrative-rich realm, offering a unique narrative twist to the genre.
Phantom Fury follows Shelly “Bombshell” Harrison in this sequel to 2019s cyberpunk shooter Ion Fury. Taking place a few years before Ion Fury, Shelly must cope with being in this new sci-fi world with a bionic arm and blending weapons and skill-based combat to take down your enemies, all while tasked with procuring an artifact that has the power to change the world.
One of the standout features of Phantom Fury is its attention to detail when it comes to weaponry, equipment, and tactics. The game’s mechanics are designed to be realistic and immersive, allowing players to feel like they’re truly in the midst of a futuristic war. For example, players are equipped with an arsenal of authentic weapons and gadgets, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This not only adds a layer of strategy to the gameplay but also makes every decision feel weighty and meaningful, contributing to the overall intensity and excitement of the game.
“One of the standout features of Phantom Fury is its attention to detail when it comes to weaponry, equipment, and tactics.”
Phantom Fury’s visual presentation is nothing short of stunning, blending modern-day sci-fi with the aesthetic of mid-2000s Deus Ex. This fusion creates a visual feast of glorious environments punctuated by boomer shooter-esque blood and weapon stylings, adding to the game’s unique appeal.
Before my time with Phantom Fury, I had not heard of the series, but once I went hands-on, it was clear from the get-go that I needed to put Phantom Fury and Ion Fury on my radar. With only a few weeks until release, all fans of boomer shooters and stylistic Sci-Fi shooters should get this game on their wishlists.
