Vladik Brutal

Our analysis

A standout budget FPS that scratches the classic Half-Life itch with brilliant, atmospheric level design, no-handholding puzzles, and a meaty arsenal that keeps you tense and on edge. Combat is brutal and demanding even on normal, enemies hit hard, and the whole thing is remarkably robust with only a couple of minor bugs. The story and voice acting are weak, but as a near-solo-developed effort it's an absolute bargain that punches well above its price.