Review: Death Elevator for PS5

As we gamers grow older, I’ve noticed a curious trend: we seem to be perpetually dissatisfied. Developers introduce innovative mechanics to our beloved genres, and we gripe about change. But if they stick with what we know, we label those games as mere clones or lament the stagnation. The same goes for complexity; a complicated game with myriad options overwhelms us, while a streamlined one feels oversimplified and dull. This cycle is perhaps a byproduct of saturation. We play so much that all games start being compared to one another, leaving us uncertain about our true desires in a game. This brings us to today’s spotlight: Death Elevator. It’s likely to spark division based on your own definition of a great game.

Death Elevator sets up a straightforward scenario: step into an elevator, go from floor to floor, and eliminate the bad guys. Remember classics like the original Team Fortress or Quake? Death Elevator shares their simplicity. Grab your weapon, clear the level, and move on. For some shooter enthusiasts, this might feel too basic. We’re so accustomed to skill trees and loadouts that stripping those layers might seem outdated. Yet, for someone like me who gamed in the era of simplicity, it’s a refreshing dose of nostalgia. Removing the focus from character progression allows one to hone core gaming skills.

What stands out most in Death Elevator is its aesthetic and mechanics. The graphics take a cue from something like Superhot, with blocky, minimalist designs that match the game’s stripped-down essence. It’s a cohesive package. Another intriguing element is its time-slowing feature when bullets approach, giving you a chance to dodge or shoot them mid-air. However, there’s a catch; it only kicks in with bullets in your line of vision, leaving you vulnerable to attacks from other angles. Balancing your awareness with action is part of the learning curve.

I’m not diving into the game’s story. It unfolds as you progress, devoid of a traditional prologue. Each level might reveal snippets, encouraging you to play well for a better grasp of the plot. This approach keeps the focus on the shooting, which is the game’s priority. Essentially, there are no major spoilers because I’m still piecing together the narrative myself.

Overall, Death Elevator is addictive and fun. Its graphic style resonates with me, and controls are spot on. The game’s enjoyment hinges largely on your preferences. Timed runs cater to speed-run enthusiasts, and its challenging nature suits those craving difficulty. The lack of checkpoints means you’ll need to finish it in one go, which will appeal to arcade fans.

That said, those who appreciate character customization and intricate narratives might find it less appealing. The plot remains cryptic, which might be a downside for those wanting immersion. Despite this, I keep returning, striving to improve my runs. As a fan of vintage shooters, this game checks many boxes for me. If you share that passion or are merely seeking a fresh twist in the shooter genre, give Death Elevator a shot. But if it’s strategic depth you crave, other games might better fulfill that need.

A Rising Star

• Look and Feel: 8/10
• Challenge: 8/10
• Replayability: 7/10
• Value for Money: 9/10
• Controls and UI: 8/10

Overall Score: 8/10

An Enjoyable FPS: Death Elevator offers plenty of fun but may not suit every shooter aficionado. Its simplicity and difficulty could deter some, but if you enjoy the arcade genre and a considerable challenge, you’ll likely find a lot to enjoy. For a deeper experience, though, you might want to explore other options.