Killer Klowns from Outer Space Introduces a Carnival of Chaos – Review
“Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game” stands out as a vibrant and engaging experience, merging the campy horror of the 1988 cult classic with dynamic, entertaining gameplay. Developed by IllFonic and Teravision Games, this title revisits the absurd charm of the original film, casting players into the roles of either the nefarious Klowns or the desperate human survivors of Crescent Cove.
From the moment you step into the game, the nostalgic allure of the ’80s film is palpable. The developers have meticulously crafted an environment dripping with the campy aesthetics that fans adore. As a human player, you’re thrust into a frantic scramble to locate tools like gas cans or spark plugs to activate escape routes, all while evading the pursuit of three menacing Klowns. These Klowns are not just terrifying; they’re equipped with an arsenal of bizarre weapons, from popcorn-spewing guns to hypnotic lures fashioned from balloon animals.
The gameplay mechanics are where “Killer Klowns from Outer Space” truly shines. It skillfully balances the roles of humans and Klowns, ensuring no side feels overwhelmingly powerful. Humans must rely on stealth, speed, and occasional teamwork, looting for weapons and health items while navigating through the map’s various escape points. These include a motorboat, a bomb shelter, and even a quirky last-minute escape using the film’s iconic ice-cream truck, the Terenzi Truck.
On the Klown side, players experience a different kind of thrill. Initially, Klowns must harvest humans to gain access to their full arsenal of weapons and abilities. This delayed gratification is worth the wait, as deploying these abilities—whether it’s zapping humans into cotton candy cocoons or sending out AI-controlled scouts—adds layers of strategy and amusement. The Klownpocalypse, a climactic event triggered if humans fail to escape in time, heightens the tension, making every match feel like a race against an inevitable, sugary doom.
One of the game’s standout features is its attention to the source material. The Klowns’ abilities and gadgets are lifted directly from the film, allowing players to recreate iconic moments, such as the notorious shadow puppet kill. These references are not merely fan service; they’re integrated into the gameplay in authentic and innovative ways. Special finishing moves, known as Klownalities, add a delightful layer of absurdity, turning each match into a spectacle of macabre humor.
Visually, the game is a treat. The maps are meticulously designed, reflecting the gaudy, carnival-esque atmosphere of the film. While less visually distinctive, the human characters are bolstered by a range of cosmetic options that players can unlock as they progress. The Klowns themselves are a marvel, with each one meticulously rendered to match their film counterparts, complete with exaggerated features and grotesque grins.
Despite its many strengths, “Killer Klowns from Outer Space” is not without its flaws. Technical issues, such as glitching objectives and occasional crashes, can disrupt the otherwise smooth gameplay experience. The developers have acknowledged these issues and are working on patches to improve stability and performance. Additionally, the current map selection could benefit from more variety to prevent matches from feeling repetitive over time.
“Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game” is a commendable entry in the asymmetrical multiplayer genre. It combines a deep respect for its source material with inventive gameplay mechanics, resulting in a game that is as entertaining as it is chaotic. While it has some technical hiccups to iron out, the core experience is solid and promises a fun time for fans of the genre and the original film alike.
RATING: 4.0 out of 5.0
Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game is now available for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S/X.
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The Oregon Trail Nintendo Switch
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White Christmas [4K UHD + Blu-Ray + Digital Copy]
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OpenCritic
luv the chaos and humor. The creativty is out of this world, literally!
The clowns are really creepy!