PC Critic Reviews

Thanks to the AI Director, incredible atmosphere and great pacing, Back 4 Blood is a triumphant return for Turtle Rock.

Back 4 Blood is an exceptional FPS that sets a new standard for co-op zombie murderfests.

Back 4 Blood is a fun blend of the classic Left 4 Dead template with a reasonable inclusion of modern traits. The basic zombie shooting brings forth just as many memorable and chaotic moments as the developer's original series, and the game absolutely sings in multiplayer, but the solo experience remains engaging for those who only get along with bots. The modern touches add some depth that doesn't detract from what makes this kind of game so fun in the first place. The steps to increase replayability accomplish that without feeling forced. Despite a few minor issues here and there, Back 4 Blood is a solid debut, and those who wanted some progress in the genre are going to find it in buckets here.

Back 4 Blood doesn’t just imitate the Left 4 Dead formula like these titles, it elevates it past its predecessor. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia for the 12 year old title, or maybe just poor memory, that fuels our rose-tinted retrospection and distaste for something new. Regardless, Back 4 Blood takes the concept to the next level and builds in layers of cool ideas and just plain fun gameplay.

Back 4 Blood is the ultimate cooperative experience, without a doubt. It may unwisely punish solo players and lack deeper launch content to attract and immerse casual players, potentially impacting the game’s community and longevity. But its core mode of pitting four players against an unyielding mob of monstrous death brings a constantly evolving, sometimes overwhelming challenge. If it weren’t for the extensively unique and clever card system and the overly satisfying gunplay, Back 4 Blood would stumble and shamble out of the gate. Yet its core mechanics provide such a fulfilling reward, that I can’t imagine not wanting to dive back in day after day and fend off the Ridden.

All in all, Turtle Rock Studios’ latest effort is a solid, well-polished co-op shooter with only few blemishes, and some minor tweaking could transform it from a good game to a great one. With more content incoming and the card system offering new and fresh twists, Back 4 Blood is one I expect to be playing for a long time to come.

Back 4 Blood continues the tradition of PvE shooters started by Turtle Rock Studios with Left 4 Dead, but offering a better gameplay dynamics and a fun campaign to play online with three other players.

Back 4 Blood is a great co-op driven by the roots of the genre and beyond.

Back 4 Blood is the spiritual sequel to Left 4 Dead and as such it won't disappoint those who have long been waiting for an inspired, solid and fun zombie-based cooperative experience.

Despite a few shortcomings, Back 4 Blood is nevertheless an excellent and fresh take on the beloved Left 4 Dead formula.