Cepheus Protocol

80%
Game Brain Score Based on 1,916 reviews
  • gameplay
  • optimization
  • story
Cepheus Protocol Game Cover
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Cepheus Protocol is a real-time strategy game set in a futuristic world overrun by a deadly virus. As the leader of a ragtag group of survivors, players must gather resources, build bases, and research new technologies to combat the outbreak and save humanity. With intense tactical combat and a branching storyline, each playthrough offers a unique challenge.

  • PC
  • Windows
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

80%
Audience ScoreBased on 1,916 reviews
gameplay103 positive mentions
optimization31 negative mentions
  • Unique blend of RTS and zombie survival gameplay.
  • Active developer support with frequent updates and community engagement.
  • Engaging mechanics for managing civilians and tactical combat.
  • Pathfinding and AI issues lead to frustrating gameplay experiences.
  • Game crashes and performance issues, especially in late-game scenarios.
  • Limited replayability due to only one main map and lack of campaign mode.
  • gameplay379 mentions

    The gameplay of Cepheus Protocol is a mixed bag, showcasing a unique blend of RTS mechanics, base-building, and tactical combat against a zombie apocalypse backdrop. While many players appreciate the innovative mechanics and strategic depth, they also highlight significant issues such as clunky controls, pathfinding problems, and a lack of polish that detracts from the overall experience. The developers are actively working on improvements, but the game remains in an early access state, leading to a gameplay experience that can be both engaging and frustrating.

    • “I enjoyed the gameplay and the way the game is structured.”
    • “Gameplay-wise, it has many basic similarities with other RTS games which makes it easy for genre fans to get into, but does and is trying to do enough new things, both big and small, that I think it mixes up the formula in an interesting and fun way.”
    • “The core gameplay is incredibly enjoyable, and with the continuous stream of new updates, it keeps getting better and better.”
    • “I will tell you as an honest consumer that you need to be working on these smaller gameplay and mechanic issues, especially the smaller nuisance issues that take away from the playability.”
    • “The mechanics of the game do not synergize well and at times it feels like I'm playing a collection of Unity assets meshed together.”
    • “The gameplay is extremely clunky and buggy.”
  • optimization129 mentions

    The game's optimization is a significant concern among players, with many reporting severe performance issues, particularly in late-game scenarios where frame rates drop drastically. While some improvements have been noted, the game remains buggy and prone to crashes, with pathfinding and AI behavior also requiring attention. Overall, players express hope for future updates to enhance optimization, but currently, the game's performance is often described as unplayable, especially on lower-end systems.

    • “With some love, some bug crushing, getting the basic systems optimized and fleshed out, this has the makings of one of the greats.”
    • “The game is optimized better than it was before and you no longer need a NASA PC to run it.”
    • “The performance recently increased massively, a lot of bugs have been fixed, I didn't have a crash for a long time.”
    • “Performance isn't great, and it's extremely prone to crashing and just all around bugs, zombies running around and not doing anything, water vehicles just simply deciding to explode, and that's when their pathfinding works in the first place, certain unit commands not working and enemy humans getting caught on terrain.”
    • “The game needs much, much more optimization and fixes before being sold at the current price, even if early access.”
    • “Game optimization: in the early game there's no problem in fps, but later on, it drops without a reason, it's unplayable.”
  • story120 mentions

    The game's story is currently underdeveloped, with players expressing a desire for a more engaging narrative and mission variety beyond the main objective of eliminating "patient zero." While there are hints of a captivating storyline involving a viral outbreak and military response, much of the gameplay feels like a sandbox experience where players create their own narratives through strategic missions and base-building. Many reviewers are hopeful for future updates that will expand the story and introduce more structured campaign elements.

    • “At the core of Cepheus Protocol lies a captivating storyline that unfolds with cinematic flair.”
    • “The immersive gameplay mechanics, such as base-building, resource management, and strategic combat, seamlessly integrate with the storyline, keeping players invested in the fight for survival.”
    • “With its atmospheric visuals, gripping storyline, and strategic gameplay mechanics, the game offers a thrilling and challenging experience for strategy enthusiasts.”
    • “The game offers a wide range of strategies and approaches, allowing you to tackle missions in different ways, but as far as gameplay goes, there isn't much of a story just yet.”
    • “Putting gameplay and story aside, the idea of having a game where you command a CBRN battalion trying to stop a zombie crisis while the outbreak is starting is an excellent idea, but the execution lacks depth.”
    • “The story is pretty generic overall, where a nurse gets exposed to the virus and becomes patient zero, and for some reason is invulnerable to conventional bullets.”
  • graphics119 mentions

    The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with some players praising the stunning visuals and immersive atmosphere, while others criticize poor optimization and performance issues that hinder gameplay. Many users note that while the graphics can be impressive, they often require a decent graphics card to run smoothly, and there are frequent bugs and glitches that detract from the overall experience. Overall, the game's aesthetic is appreciated, but significant improvements in optimization and UI are needed for a better user experience.

    • “The graphics are amazing and have lots of details.”
    • “This game raises the bar with its breathtaking graphics.”
    • “The graphics are pretty good, especially the rain and lighting effects.”
    • “Next off, the trailers make the game look solid and crisp, but the actual in-game graphics (on epic) are extremely poor.”
    • “I was greeted with blurry graphics from the very beginning, only able to change the resolution by switching video modes over and over again.”
    • “The graphics and sound are so poorly optimized and the AI is just horrible.”
  • stability107 mentions

    The game is widely reported to be very buggy, with numerous glitches affecting gameplay, such as pathfinding issues, visual anomalies, and AI behavior problems. While these bugs can be frustrating and sometimes game-breaking, many players still find the experience enjoyable and believe in the game's potential, appreciating the developers' ongoing updates and support. Overall, the stability of the game is a significant concern, but it remains playable and fun for those willing to overlook its flaws.

    • “I would love this game if it wasn't such a buggy mess. Zombies teleport sometimes, they have no animations at all sometimes (stuck in T-pose). The camera is horrendous with how it clips into buildings and glues to the terrain if you go to a lower elevation. I would literally put 100+ hours into this if it was actually fixed.”
    • “It's a clusterfuck of buggy, unfinished, half-thought-out, and half-implemented systems that do not fit together anymore.”
    • “The game is currently very buggy but quite playable. You quite regularly see zombies T-posing and hovering all over the place as well as getting stuck on hills.”
  • music66 mentions

    The music in the game is generally well-received, with players enjoying the ability to blast custom tracks from vehicles while battling zombies, which adds a fun and immersive element to gameplay. However, some users note that the in-game music can be repetitive and that improvements are needed in sound design, such as better looping options and volume balancing. Overall, the integration of custom music and the atmospheric soundtrack contribute positively to the game's experience, despite some technical issues.

    • “Overall, I would say that my favorite feature has to be the speakers on vehicles and the ones you can build, as with these you're able to blast out music while shooting zombie hordes.”
    • “Music + guns + zombies = living the dream.”
    • “You can add your music to the game to play over loudspeakers and vehicles.”
    • “Ui is trash, music is meh, gameplay sucks.”
    • “The music is a bit repetitive but I still like it.”
    • “Jarring in-game music changes from quiet search music to overly loud combat music back and forth several times in a 5 second period.”
  • replayability32 mentions

    Overall, the game is praised for its high replayability, with many players enjoying the tactical depth, variety of strategies, and the potential for future content updates. While some users note that current replayability may be limited due to a lack of maps and modes, the game's mechanics and planned enhancements suggest a promising future for replay value. Many players find themselves returning for new strategies and experiences, indicating a strong foundation for replayability despite some existing limitations.

    • “The replay value of this game is enormous.”
    • “There's a huge amount of granularity in where and what you can build, how you position or arm your troops, or what techs you unlock, so I've found it extremely replayable.”
    • “Very unique concept with great replayability, lots of planned features for release, overall a game I find myself replaying a new game for each time I think of a new plan or when a new update drops.”
    • “The replayability isn't quite there yet beyond a couple of maps and a couple of modes, but at this stage I think it's important to just get the basic systems down and functioning.”
    • “Despite offering challenging scenarios and multiple maps, some players might find the game's replayability somewhat limited over the long term.”
    • “While this methodical gameplay absolutely works, I don't know if it has a lot of replayability.”
  • atmosphere21 mentions

    The atmosphere in Cepheus Protocol is widely praised for its immersive and detailed post-apocalyptic world, characterized by eerie landscapes, abandoned cities, and a palpable sense of tension and urgency. The game's dynamic lighting, atmospheric effects, and sound design enhance the overall experience, making players feel deeply engaged in the chaotic environment of a zombie outbreak. Reviewers highlight the captivating visuals and compelling narrative as key elements that contribute to the game's atmospheric depth.

    • “Cepheus Protocol's atmospheric world is rendered with attention to detail, creating an immersive environment that adds to the overall tension and urgency.”
    • “Dynamic lighting, atmospheric effects, and seamless animations combine to create an immersive and chilling atmosphere.”
    • “Cepheus Protocol excels at creating an immersive post-apocalyptic world with its eerie landscapes, abandoned cities, and a grim atmosphere.”
    • “The developers have done a fine job creating an atmosphere of tension and dread, making you feel like you're right there in the thick of the chaos.”
    • “The atmosphere was dense, and the constant threat was ubiquitous.”
  • grinding17 mentions

    Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and frustrating, often requiring repetitive tasks such as managing civilian administrations, dismounting infantry for ammunition, and clearing large maps. The mechanics, including pathfinding issues and resource management, contribute to a sense of monotony, making the gameplay feel more like a chore than an engaging experience. Overall, many reviewers express a desire for improvements to reduce the grind and enhance enjoyment.

    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “Maybe after they finish with the carrier they fix the bad pathfinding, the zombie hordes spawn from thin air and maybe they add some good content for progressing your research instead of the grindy one they have now (kill zombies, send your scientist running to collect the DNA drop-loot, repeat).”
    • “Once I reach this point, clearing each island becomes a tedious project.”
    • “The scale that this game is going for is absolutely enormous and clearing the map is so tedious and just feels stupid.”
  • humor14 mentions

    The humor in the game is often derived from its quirky glitches and unexpected moments, such as units getting stuck on objects and the amusing interactions between gameplay elements. Players appreciate the lightheartedness brought by custom music and the developers' nonchalant responses, which contribute to a fun atmosphere. Overall, the game is recognized for its entertaining mix of chaotic zombie action and comedic elements, making it a source of laughter despite its imperfections.

    • “The pathing is hilarious; I've had my units get stuck on random doodads, and the enemy get stuck on their own buildings.”
    • “Sometimes I forget I have certain songs enabled, and I hear Swedish metal playing as a scout helicopter flies over my firing line getting overrun, and I burst out laughing.”
    • “The game is a funny mix of gunning down zombie hordes as creatively as the game allows you, with a surprising depth of possibilities.”
  • monetization7 mentions

    The monetization strategy of the game has been criticized as a potential cash grab, primarily relying on skin packs rather than a battle pass, which some players appreciate. However, the overwhelming presence of ads and a disorganized main menu detracts from the experience, leading to concerns that the developers may prioritize marketing over necessary game improvements. Overall, while the game has captivating elements, its monetization approach raises doubts about its long-term legitimacy.

    • “Their monetization method is through skin packs, which I can appreciate because we don't need another battle pass, especially for a game like this. Updates are frequent and sizable, but some of the changes, like the upcoming UI update, feel a bit ill-prioritized in favor of other issues. Even my nitpicks feel like they should be more pressing, but for atmosphere alone, something about this game just captivates me.”
    • “Scammy cash grab is the best way I'd describe this.”
    • “The main menu is a horrible mess of ads that Zuckerberg would be proud of.”
    • “At this point, it looks like they've realized this and are now heavily invested in marketing the game with gimmicks, actors, and ads rather than trying to fix the performance.”
  • emotional3 mentions

    Users find the game to be wholesome and emotionally uplifting, highlighting its promising potential despite some awkward gameplay. However, there are concerns about performance issues that need to be addressed for a better experience. Overall, the active development is seen as a positive and encouraging aspect.

    • “This game is so wholesome.”
    • “The active development is heartwarming and encouraging.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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Play time

7hMedian play time
14hAverage play time
4-20hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 23 analyzed playthroughs

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