In a world of hero shooters FragPunk does something different

As a seasoned veteran of the hero shooter scene, having spent countless hours in competitive matches with Overwatch and Paladins under my belt, I must admit that FragPunk has piqued my interest like no other newcomer in recent memory. The game’s polished mechanics, familiar yet refreshing take on the genre, and that one ingenious card mechanic have left me eagerly anticipating its full release.


FragPunk is a brand new 5v5 hero shooter, currently in its closed beta phase. In a genre filled with high-quality, competing games, it may have all the tools it needs for long-term success, thanks to just one ingenious mechanic.

First-time login to FragPunk, created by Bad Guitar Studio (a division of NetEase Games and ThunderFire Studios), might feel reminiscent due to its striking resemblance to popular hero shooter games. The characters in this game bear a strong resemblance to those seen in games such as Overwatch, with similar features that catch the eye.

In a world of hero shooters FragPunk does something different

In simpler terms, the gameplay pattern is quickly identifiable, but players have the flexibility to switch their selected character and equipment between rounds, not just between games. Moreover, FragPunk offers conventional, goal-oriented gameplay, gun handling, and special abilities that vary based on your chosen character.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but emphasize the spot-on polish this game has when it comes to its gameplay. The movement is swift, making my champions feel nimble and adept at navigating maps that are brimming with verticality. The gunplay might not be revolutionary, but it’s easy to grasp, and there’s a diverse array of weapons to suit different playstyles.

That said, the real USP of FragPunk comes in the form of one spectacular mechanic.

FragPunk holds all the cards

In a world of hero shooters FragPunk does something different

Intriguingly, the peak moment in every game unfolds during the Shard Clash game mode’s unique feature – a phase between rounds. During this time, players can choose cards that are randomly selected for them. These cards come with assigned values, which players can invest points into to use them in the following round. The number of points each player has at their disposal is determined by their success in earning kills and accomplishing objectives in the preceding round.

In the subsequent round of play, whatever action the card takes will come into play. This straightforward, unpredictable, and captivating feature ensures that no two rounds feel identical, and circumstances can shift rapidly even if you’re trailing by several rounds. It also helps avoid the sensation of helplessness when there’s a substantial skill gap, as a damage boost could be just what you need to alter the course of the game.

These playing cards exhibit a wide range of effects, from boosting the player’s ammo supply to inflating the heads of all opponents dramatically. Additionally, there are cards that allow teams to invest points without a set limit, amplifying the card’s effect. These cards can significantly increase damage, healing, or enhance abilities in the game, making a substantial difference in each playthrough.

Currently, FragPunk appears incredibly promising at this initial phase. However, whether it will manage to accumulate a following and launch successfully before its full release is yet unclear. With the necessary components to rival top-tier games within its genre, it’s definitely worth keeping an eye on.

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2024-10-13 19:48