Wales Interactive takes a bold step by venturing into the realm of round-based zombie shooters, reminiscent of the iconic Call of Duty Zombies. With its unique gameplay mechanics and narrative-driven approach, Sker Ritual offers a fresh take on the genre. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the thrilling world of Sker Ritual, exploring its gameplay, mechanics, graphics, audio, and overall longevity.
Unlike traditional round-based horde shooters, Sker Ritual introduces a captivating narrative component that sets it apart from its counterparts. The game takes place after the events of Maid of Sker, and the story unfolds through dialogue, notes, and the completion of level-specific Easter eggs. While the story might not win any awards, its presence adds a layer of tension and intrigue to the gameplay. Sker Ritual successfully combines the thrill of surviving waves of enemies with the excitement of uncovering the next chapter in its immersive storyline.
Sker Ritual offers a variety of gameplay options, allowing you to play solo, with friends privately, or online with other players. Before diving into the action, you can choose from five different difficulty settings, ranging from Beginner to Nightmare. Starting in a small room armed with only a pistol, you’ll face off against hordes of monstrous enemies. Weapons, such as rifles and pistols, are available for purchase within the game, ensuring you’re well-equipped for the challenges ahead. An interesting feature of Sker Ritual is the inclusion of a shield and sword that can adjust the game’s difficulty. This innovative addition allows players of varying skill levels to enjoy the game together, ensuring a fulfilling experience for everyone involved. As you progress through the game, you’ll have two primary objectives: completing tasks to advance the story or surviving as long as possible while searching for hidden secrets.
Sker Ritual is heavily influenced by Call of Duty Zombies, as it incorporates a perks system that provides buffs to enhance your survival chances. These perks, such as increased health or movement speed, can be obtained by consuming specific elixirs or items. Sker Ritual also introduces Miracles, which offer various effects to keep combat fresh and dynamic. For example, knives can stun enemies and grant players ultimate skills. After each wave, the game rewards you with a Miracle, adding a layer of strategy to your gameplay. Players can also encounter pick-ups that provide temporary advantages, such as insta-kill effects or double points. These pick-ups, another highlighted feature found in Call of Duty Zombies, add an element of unpredictability and excitement to the gameplay. It’s crucial to utilize these power-ups strategically, as they can be the deciding factor between survival and being overwhelmed by the relentless horde.
Sker Ritual offers two different paths to progress through the game. You can choose to focus solely on survival, attempting to survive for as long as possible against increasingly challenging waves of enemies. Alternatively, you can undertake a series of tasks and objectives to unlock further story elements. These tasks often involve solving puzzles, escorting NPCs, or finding combinations to unlock hidden areas. Throughout the game, random events may occur, adding an extra layer of excitement and challenge to your gameplay experience. At times, you may even find yourself facing off against formidable bosses, such as the imposing Abraham. While bosses can be bullet sponges, testing your stamina and resourcefulness, defeating them unlocks new areas and progresses the story.
While Sker Ritual may lack the detailed textures found in mainstream shooters, its unique art design compensates for any visual shortcomings. The in-game customizations, particularly the masks, exhibit a distinct and eerie aesthetic, paying homage to the game’s predecessor, Maid of Sker. The voice lines range from creepy to humorous, adding depth and personality to the overall experience. Sker Ritual also offers customizable menu backgrounds, allowing players to immerse themselves in various atmospheric settings, from eerie morgues to the haunting Hotel Sker. While not without flaws, the game’s audio design can be adjusted to enhance the overall experience.
Sker Ritual successfully captures the essence of round-based horde shooters while introducing its unique elements. Although the game may have a few rough edges and technical issues, it remains an enjoyable experience for both solo and multiplayer gameplay. The incorporation of a compelling narrative, perks system, and challenging objectives sets Sker Ritual apart from its competitors. While it may not match the polish of mainstream shooters, Sker Ritual’s engaging gameplay, atmospheric visuals, and immersive audio design make it a worthy contender in the round-based zombie shooter genre. Whether you’re a fan of Call of Duty Zombies or simply looking for a thrilling cooperative shooter, Sker Ritual offers a fresh and exhilarating experience. Embrace the challenge, uncover the secrets, and survive the relentless horde in this unique evolution of the genre.
