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Recommended
0.0 hrs last two weeks / 1,530.4 hrs on record (1,435.2 hrs at review time)
Posted: 24 Nov, 2023 @ 12:29pm
Updated: 1 Apr @ 6:34am

Hunt: Showdown - 1896: A Masterpiece of Atmosphere and Challenge



Hunt: Showdown has always stood out in the multiplayer FPS genre, offering a unique blend of PvPvE, tactical survival, and deep immersion. But 1896 takes that experience to a whole new level, delivering one of the most atmospheric and thrilling expansions the game has ever seen.

A Darker, More Immersive Experience


The first thing that immediately stands out in 1896 is its incredibly immersive atmosphere. The setting takes us deeper into the lore of Hunt, plunging players into an era where the horror and brutality of the bayou feel even more raw and terrifying. Every inch of the redesigned environments exudes tension—weathered buildings, dense fog, and eerie soundscapes create an almost suffocating sense of dread.

The art direction and lighting enhancements make 1896 feel both familiar and refreshingly new. The muted color palette, flickering lanterns, and the interplay between light and shadow add to the haunting beauty of the world. It’s not just a visual treat but an auditory masterpiece as well—every distant gunshot, rustling bush, or distant wail of a creature keeps you on edge.

Gameplay at its Best


What makes Hunt: Showdown - 1896 truly shine is how it refines and expands the core gameplay loop. The balance between risk and reward has never felt more intense. The introduction of new weapons, tools, and gear adds more variety to combat, allowing for creative and strategic engagements. The period-accurate arsenal makes every gunfight feel gritty and visceral—whether you’re wielding a hand-cranked gatling gun or a single-shot rifle, each weapon choice feels meaningful.

The AI enemies also seem more cunning and unpredictable, forcing hunters to be more methodical in their approach. No longer can you simply rely on past knowledge—each encounter feels like a fresh challenge, demanding adaptability and teamwork. And of course, the human enemies remain the biggest threat, making every match a heart-pounding experience of cat-and-mouse survival.

The Perfect Blend of Lore and Gameplay

One of the most exciting aspects of 1896 is how it deepens the lore of Hunt: Showdown. The game has always had a rich, mysterious backstory lurking beneath the surface, and this expansion gives players more insight into the events that shaped the world we fight in. Through environmental storytelling, cryptic notes, and the design of new characters, we get to piece together a narrative that makes the Hunt universe feel even more alive.

The addition of new legendary hunters, each with their own unique backstories, only adds to the immersion. These aren’t just skins; they are characters with history, woven into the fabric of the game’s lore, making each choice feel personal.

A Must-Play for Hunt Veterans and Newcomers Alike


Whether you're a seasoned hunter with hundreds of hours in the bayou or a newcomer looking for a fresh challenge, Hunt: Showdown - 1896 is an absolute must-play. It takes everything that makes Hunt special—its intense atmosphere, tactical gameplay, and deep lore—and amplifies it to new heights.

Crytek has once again proven that Hunt: Showdown is more than just a shooter—it’s an experience. With 1896, they have delivered a haunting, thrilling, and incredibly rewarding expansion that sets a new standard for atmospheric multiplayer games. If you’re looking for something that will keep your heart pounding and your hands shaking, this is it.

10/10 – The bayou has never felt so alive… or so deadly.
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