Steam: Old-school FPS debuts with 94% positive reviews and launch discount

SPRAWL zero clearly takes inspiration from shooters of the early 2000s. Instead of crafting, sprawling skill trees or complicated progression systems, the focus is on fast-paced combat and a large arsenal of weapons. More than 40 guns keep the combat style constantly changing – one moment players are using an assault rifle, the next a shotgun or improvised attacks using the game's physics. Reloading isn't an option: Once the current gun is empty, players simply pick up the next one.

In keeping with its old-school FPS influences, the setting is also pretty wild: SPRAWL zero takes place in a dark cyberpunk city being torn apart by military control, religious fanaticism and several warring factions. Players take on the role of FIVE, a cybernetically enhanced supersoldier sent to eliminate the leader of the techno-religious group IMAGO-DEI. And since a shooter with this much retro flair naturally wouldn't be complete without proper bullet time, players can temporarily slow down the action at the press of a button.

Gaming Boulevard particularly praises the fast-paced gunplay, intelligent enemies and flexible arsenal in its review. Criticism is mainly directed at some overly long levels, occasional backtracking and the sometimes difficult navigation within missions. Overall, the publication awards the game a solid 8.5 out of 10. The first Steam reviews paint an even more positive picture: 94% of more than 130 user reviews are positive. SPRAWL zero has also debuted at No. 4 on Steam's Popular New Releases chart.

The shooter from German studio MAETH normally costs just under $25 on Steam. Until September 22, however, SPRAWL zero is available with a 20% launch discount for $19.99. On the Steam Deck, the title is rated as “Playable.”