Bodycam: A Glimpse at Realism in Multiplayer Mayhem
With its blend of engaging gameplay and next-gen visuals, Bodycam shows promise, yet suffers from a few early access growing pains.
Early Access Review
last updated Aug 01, 2024
With its focus on realism and tactical play, Bodycam presents an intriguing proposition for players seeking a fresh take on the FPS genre.
Gameplay: Strategy Over Spray and Pray
Bodycam attempts to redefine the FPS genre by forcing players to adopt a more tactical approach, as opposed to the mindless running and gunning seen in many contemporary shooters. This game thrives on a unique realism that makes every bullet count, with a combat loop that can leave you breathless—if you avoid being spawn-killed, that is. The current roster of game modes feels a tad underwhelming, as players are left with only a couple of options to dive into, such as Team Deathmatch and free-for-all mayhem. The weapon mechanics are a mixed bag, offering both thrilling moments of intensity and frustrating trials as you grapple with the steep learning curve of more complex aiming systems. If you come into Bodycam expecting a smooth experience akin to Call of Duty, prepare for a wake-up call that might have you questioning your own sanity.
Audio: A Double-Edged Sword
The audio in Bodycam serves as both an exhilarating and sometimes overwhelming experience. From the thunderous roar of gunfire that feels like it could shatter your eardrums to the immersive sound design that makes you feel like you're tucked into the realistic chaos of combat, there's no denying that the aural elements are polished. However, the balance can feel off as your ears try to process the cacophony, leading to an audio environment that can sometimes be altogether jarring. Mic communication is another layer of intrigue and confusion, as players fumble with various input methods while battling against an enemy team that might just pop you in the head the moment you spawn in. A bit of fine-tuning and improved audio clarity will go a long way in elevating the overall experience—after all, clarity is often key to survival in the chaos.
Graphics: Eye-Candy Meets Frustration
Utilizing Unreal Engine 5, Bodycam boasts stunning graphics that can turn even the most mundane moments into visual spectacles. The emphasis on ultra-realism is apparent as you traverse beautifully crafted maps filled with environmental details that enhance immersion. However, that level of polish doesn't come without its faults. Many players have experienced performance dips on high-end rigs, with frame rates plummeting or sudden crashes that can ruin the intensity of an otherwise gripping match. While the ambition set forth by the developers to create a visually stunning FPS is commendable, the technical execution often falls short. With some tweaks and careful optimization, Bodycam could evolve into a graphical powerhouse that supports its ambitions rather than hinders them.
Beyond the Basics: Potential Needs Polishing
Bodycam clearly has aspirations to push the envelope of the FPS genre, and while its foundations are solid, there are many facets that could benefit from some loving care. The game currently feels sparse, with a need for more content such as additional game modes and maps to keep players engaged. Critiques regarding imbalance in matchmaking systems and spawn points make the already tense gameplay even more frustrating, as players find themselves fending off against overwhelming numbers or avoidable premature deaths. The fact that it’s being developed by a small team brings hope for future improvements, but as it stands, Bodycam finds itself straddling the line between brilliance and bewilderment.
EARLY ACCESS RATING
Developer & Publisher
Reissad Studio
Early Accesss Release Date
June 07, 2024
Verdict: A Fragile Gem in Early Access
Bodycam presents an intriguing proposition for players seeking a fresh take on the FPS genre through its focus on realism and tactical play. However, the execution leaves room for improvement, as balancing issues, bugs, and performance hitches remind us that it is still a work in progress. With time and, hopefully, continued support from its dedicated developers, Bodycam could evolve beyond its early access confines into a must-play title for fans who crave a more intense and strategic battlefield experience.