After the Fall, a fast-paced VR shooter from Vertigo Games arrived on the PSVR2 with a bang. Stepping into the icy wasteland of a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles overrun by grotesque, mutated creatures known as the “Snowbreed,” players band together to survive, scavenge, and fight back to civilisation. While the core concept might feel familiar, After the Fall injects a shot of frenetic VR action and innovative mechanics to create a thrilling, albeit repetitive, experience.
Shooting Your Way Through a Frozen Apocalypse
After the Fall throws you headfirst into the frozen chaos. The PSVR2’s impressive field of view and smooth tracking create a truly immersive experience. Dodging swipes from grotesque creatures, wielding an arsenal of powerful (and satisfyingly weighty) VR weapons, and sprinting through crumbling buildings all feel incredibly natural. The Sense controllers’ adaptive triggers add a layer of immersion, with each weapon feeling distinct and impactful. Dismembering a Snowbreed with a well-placed shotgun blast feels gratifyingly brutal but it’s missing a dedicated melee attack for last resorts. Still, it’s the constant movement and frenetic action that keeps the adrenaline pumping.
Cooperative Camaraderie is Key
After the Fall is best experienced in co-op although it doesn’t have to be played with others. Up to four players can squad up (other players or AI), sharing the burden of survival and the spoils of victory. Communication and teamwork are crucial. Reviving downed teammates, coordinating strategies, and covering each other’s backs during intense firefights create a strong sense of camaraderie, which is lacking in an AI team. The game offers various difficulty levels, making it accessible for seasoned VR veterans and newcomers looking for a thrilling challenge.
Beyond the Bullets: Progression and Customisation
While the core gameplay revolves around intense shootouts, After the Fall offers surprising depth. Completing missions unlocks new weapons, gadgets, and character abilities, allowing players to customise their playstyle. The hub world acts as a social space where players can interact, purchase upgrades with the Harvest they’ve collected, and prepare for upcoming expeditions. While the repetitive nature of the missions can wear thin after extended sessions, the steady stream of new gear and challenges keeps gameplay slightly more engaging.
Technical Considerations and Accessibility in After the Fall
After the Fall takes full advantage of the PSVR2’s capabilities, the visuals, while not groundbreaking, are detailed and atmospheric. The crisp resolution ensures clear sightlines during combat, which is crucial for survival. Thankfully, the game offers a robust suite of comfort options, including smooth locomotion and teleport movement, mitigating the risk of motion sickness for players with varying sensitivities.
Final Thoughts on After the Fall
After the Fall offers a fun, albeit limited, VR co-op zombie shooter experience. The game excels in its core mechanics, delivering satisfying VR gunplay with a good sense of immersion. The diverse enemy types and the unique frozen Los Angeles apocalypse setting create a compelling atmosphere. However, the repetitive mission structure and the grind for weapon upgrades can make the gameplay feel shallow.
