14 DAY TRIAL // Scarlett delivers a solid shot to an exploding barrel, taking out two enemies, while Marty uses his trusty shotgun to deal with an enemy attempting a flank move. Now the pair has to team up to deal with an opponent who’s immune to ranged strikes. And, finally, they will have to engage reinforcements coming from behind, which might require some good use of overwatch.
Homicidal All-Stars is developed by Artificer and published by Good Shepherd Entertainment. I played it on the PC via Steam. It currently does not have a planned launch date. The title offers turn-based tactics with a side of game-show excitement.
The story is structured around Scarlett Martillo, a bounty hunter taking part in a violent game show created by the Omega Corporation. She has to survive against other criminals in a reality program where only the strong and smart survive. But there are also hints that her past hides a secret that will drive the single-player campaign.
Homicidal All-Stars gameplay is built around turn-based tactical engagements. Players will line up their team against a range of enemies. They have one move and one action to move in and out of cover, find the best attack angle, shoot or use a special ability. There are environmental hazards, health refills, and more to deal with.
Outside of combat characters move in third person through the level, exploring the space, avoiding traps, and finding the route to another encounter. They can also find rewards, purchase new weapons, and level up their abilities. The game's structure seems solid, although battles pretty quickly start to feel similar, even as new types of enemies constantly appear.
Homicidal All-Stars uses a look that mixes hyper-violence with reality television, complete with an extremely present announcer. The third-person sections look solid, although a little more world detail would help, while the tactically driven parts make it easy for gamers to plan and execute. The already mentioned announcer might become annoying, with his very cheery approach to violence, while the soundtrack works well with the theme.
Conclusion
I would also love to see the game add a multiplayer mode, given its variety of core ideas. Homicidal All-Stars has the potential to offer an interesting new take on some classic concepts, as long as the developers expand on what the preview version delivers.
Preview code provided by the publisher.
