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Darwin Project

The Darwin Project is a fun experiment with some solid ideas, but doesn't quite feel fleshed out or feature-rich enough to entirely recommend without caveat.
Darwin Project Game Cover
75%Game Brain Score
gameplay, graphics
story, stability
81% User Score Based on 9,789 reviews
Critic Score 68%Based on 8 reviews

Platforms

Xbox Series X|SPCPlaystation 5Playstation 4Xbox OneXboxWindowsPlayStation
Darwin Project Game Cover

About

Darwin Project is a multiplayer open world shooter game. It was developed by Scavengers Studio and was released on January 13, 2020. It received mostly positive reviews from critics and positive reviews from players.

"The Darwin Project is a free-to-play, multiplayer, survival-based battle royale game set in a dystopian post-apocalyptic landscape. Players must gather resources, craft tools, and use their survival skills to be the last one standing in each round, all while navigating harsh weather conditions and manipulating the arena's elements to their advantage. A unique gameplay feature is the addition of a Show Director who can influence the match and create new challenges for the contestants."

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81%
Audience ScoreBased on 9,789 reviews
gameplay368 positive mentions
stability41 negative mentions

  • Darwin Project offers a unique twist on the battle royale genre with its focus on survival mechanics and the interactive Show Director role, making each match feel dynamic and engaging.
  • The game features fast-paced combat and a high skill ceiling, allowing for intense and satisfying gameplay experiences.
  • The community is generally friendly and supportive, enhancing the overall experience with opportunities for social interaction through proximity chat.
  • The player base has dwindled significantly, making it difficult to find matches, especially in regions with lower populations.
  • Recent updates have simplified gameplay mechanics, removing customization options and leading to a less engaging experience for long-time players.
  • The removal of duos and team modes has disappointed many players, limiting the social aspect of the game and reducing its appeal.
  • gameplay
    895 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay of *Darwin Project* is characterized by its unique blend of survival mechanics and battle royale elements, offering fast-paced, strategic combat that emphasizes player interaction and resource management. Players appreciate the innovative "show director" mechanic, which adds a layer of unpredictability and engagement, though some criticize recent updates for disrupting core gameplay and introducing balance issues. Overall, while the game has a solid foundation and enjoyable mechanics, it faces challenges in maintaining player interest and addressing gameplay balance.

    • “The mix of survival mechanics and the 'show director' system made it stand out from the Fortnite/PUBG crowd.”
    • “The ability to track opponents, set traps, and engage in intense one-on-one combat adds depth to the gameplay, creating tense and exhilarating moments that set it apart from its competitors.”
    • “The gameplay is fast-paced and intense, with a focus on strategy and skill.”
    • “In short, Darwin Project tries to stand out with its unique setting, but it struggles to provide meaningful gameplay and fails to keep players engaged.”
    • “The role lacks meaningful impact on the outcome of matches and can sometimes result in arbitrary interference that disrupts the flow of gameplay.”
    • “The mechanics were unique, but the combat feels broken, with janky hit detection and convoluted movement that has absolutely zero rhyme or reason to work the way it does.”
  • graphics
    309 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The graphics of Darwin Project are generally described as clean and stylized, with a vibrant color palette that complements its futuristic dystopian theme. While many players appreciate the cartoonish aesthetic and find it visually appealing, some critiques highlight that the graphics could be improved and optimized better for performance. Overall, the visuals are seen as a strong aspect of the game, though opinions vary on their execution and impact on gameplay.

    • “Visually, Darwin Project has a clean, stylized art style that fits its futuristic dystopian theme.”
    • “The game's art style combines vibrant colors with a stylized aesthetic, creating a visually appealing yet foreboding environment.”
    • “The graphics are stunning, and the combat is easy to learn, hard to master.”
    • “The graphics in this game are passable, but could be better.”
    • “The graphics of the game desperately need to be optimized; once you set the graphics to the lowest possible level, you will still have a sharp frame in the game's main screen!”
    • “Boring game, with mediocre graphics and gameplay.”
  • optimization
    134 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting significant performance issues, particularly on lower-end systems. While some users praise the game for running smoothly and being well-optimized, others highlight the need for further improvements, especially regarding graphics settings and overall performance stability. Overall, the consensus suggests that while the game shows potential, it requires additional optimization to enhance the experience for a broader range of hardware.

    • “Combined with solid performance and fast matchmaking, the overall experience is smooth and highly replayable.”
    • “One of the most well-optimized games I have played in a very long time.”
    • “Graphics are pretty and pleasant, and overall the game is optimized fantastically, from my experience.”
    • “This game feels choppy; 2/3 classes barely take skill. It's poorly optimized, and its player base is so close to non-existent, but it's very addicting. Would not recommend.”
    • “The game runs really poorly on a 2070-2700x setup. It doesn't feel optimized. Not only that, but the game kicked me for 'anti-cheat' and I wasn't cheating or doing anything.”
    • “The only bad thing that I can think about this game is that it's poorly optimized.”
  • humor
    113 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The humor in the game is a standout feature, with players frequently highlighting the hilarious interactions facilitated by proximity chat and the unique role of the game director. Many reviews mention the fun and lighthearted atmosphere created by both the community and the gameplay mechanics, leading to memorable and comedic moments during matches. While some players note the presence of toxicity, the overall sentiment is that the game offers a refreshing and entertaining take on the battle royale genre, making it enjoyable to play with friends or in casual lobbies.

    • “The mic implementation in the game makes it easier to communicate with the other players and can end up with hilarious gameplay.”
    • “It's a hilarious and unique twist on the battle royale formula, and it's a shame that more games haven't tried something like this.”
    • “The choice of ten players per match mixed with in-lobby and in-game chat makes for some hilarious banter.”
  • story
    64 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's story is often described as minimal or lacking depth, with many players noting that it prioritizes gameplay over narrative. While some appreciate the potential for a more engaging storyline, others feel that the existing backstory is convoluted and underdeveloped, leading to a gameplay experience that feels more like a survival challenge than a cohesive story-driven adventure. Overall, the consensus suggests that while there are hints of a narrative, it remains overshadowed by the focus on player-versus-player mechanics.

    • “Moral of the story: you never know what life has in store for you, and if I had given up when all odds were against me, I wouldn't be where I am today.”
    • “The story... life changing.”
    • “There's an actual story behind why players fight each other.”
    • “The developer gambled that other players would be an acceptable substitute for adding storytelling, level design, etc. to the game.”
    • “There was so much potential to surround all of this with a storyline (which appeared in the first battle pass but never got continued) and make the game pop by keeping the individuality of fights and the customization of your own playstyle through different boots, cloaks, axes, arrows, and abilities - sadly this game made a 180 and turned into a robotic and futuristic disaster with shiny lamps that give you darwinium to level up your gadgets or your abilities and completely kicked the old resource leather out of the game.”
    • “Playing as a prisoner in this hexagonal post-apocalyptic winter arena gives me that Hunger Games vibe, except it's more focused on gameplay than story, of course.”
  • stability
    54 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The stability of Darwin Project has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting persistent bugs and glitches, particularly during matchmaking and gameplay, leading to frequent freezes and crashes. However, some users noted improvements over time and found the game relatively smooth and enjoyable, especially on average PCs. Overall, while the game shows potential and charm, its stability issues remain a significant concern for many players.

    • “Excited for more updates to come, not really buggy at all which is nice.”
    • “It has such a great atmosphere and vibe to it, and is really a quality product - it's not too buggy and is well polished from my experience with it so far.”
    • “This game was only released a couple of weeks ago and it runs amazing... no bugs, no glitches.”
    • “This game is a buggy unbalanced mess of a cash grab, do not recommend.”
    • “It's a broken buggy game, but if you're okay with that then sure, go ahead and play it, but it's not for me.”
    • “Game freezes every single match 10-20 minutes into the game.”
  • monetization
    42 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's monetization strategy has received mixed reviews, with many players criticizing the high prices of optional cosmetic microtransactions and the lack of a progression-based reward system. While some appreciate that the game is free-to-play with only cosmetic purchases, others view it as a cash grab, suggesting that better advertising and more engaging rewards could enhance player retention and satisfaction. Overall, the monetization approach is seen as a double-edged sword, with potential for success if executed thoughtfully.

    • “Would highly recommend this with it being free, and in-game purchases not at all necessary.”
    • “Considering this game is free, and considering its microtransactions are completely cosmetic, I love this.”
    • “All in all, very good game, especially considering it's free-to-play and offers only cosmetic microtransactions.”
    • “The game's free-to-play model introduced cosmetic microtransactions, which, while optional, drew criticism for high pricing and the absence of a progression-based reward system like a battle pass.”
    • “Not to mention the fact that the devs pulled a risky one by going free-to-play to rake in money with microtransactions via skins.”
    • “Just another cash grab at a poorly executed game genre.”
  • grinding
    40 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The grinding aspect of the game has received mixed feedback from players. While some appreciate the balance between farming resources and engaging in combat, others find the grinding tedious and time-consuming, especially in the context of achieving 100% completion or ranking high in tournaments. Recent updates have aimed to reduce the grind, shifting the focus more towards skill-based gameplay, but some long-time players feel that the changes have diminished the value of their previous efforts.

    • “It can be grindy at times, but it adds to the overall experience.”
    • “Farming is a key aspect of the game that keeps you engaged.”
    • “While it can be grindy, the rewards make it worthwhile.”
    • “I wouldn't recommend going for 100% in Darwin Project now since the game is practically dead and you require a minimum of 2 players to start a lobby. The achievements themselves are fairly straightforward, with the majority of the time needed being grinding class experience, which is especially difficult with no lobbies 99% of the time.”
    • “I hated the old arrow types, cloaks, shoes, arrows, and a million things to upgrade, spending 80% of the game looting, farming, and crafting to finally get into a fight and maybe die and have to do it all over again.”
    • “Most people that are upset with how the game is right now are older players who feel like all the learning and grinding of old Darwin is worth nothing, which I somewhat agree on.”
  • music
    38 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The music in the game elicits a wide range of reactions from players, with some praising its nostalgic and adrenaline-pumping qualities, while others find it bland or overwhelming. Many appreciate the unique soundtrack that enhances the gameplay experience, although issues with loud sound effects and mic-spamming from other players can detract from the enjoyment. Overall, the music is seen as a significant aspect of the game, contributing to its atmosphere, but opinions on its quality and appropriateness vary greatly.

    • “I remember playing this so much on Xbox One when it first released; all the sounds, music, everything is so nostalgic it kinda makes me sad.”
    • “The music in the game makes the game even better.”
    • “The soundtracks are great!”
    • “Bad gameplay, bad music, quickly gets old, bad.”
    • “The music is very bland and forgettable.”
    • “Alright game but the startup has really loud, ear-bleeding music.”
  • replayability
    21 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Overall, the game's replayability is a mixed bag; while some players find it highly enjoyable with unique mechanics and endless match variety, others feel it lacks depth and novelty after a few hours. Suggestions for improvements, such as adding ranked modes, indicate a desire for more structured competition to enhance replay value. Despite these critiques, many players still appreciate the fun and engaging experience it offers, especially in its early access phase.

    • “Combined with solid performance and fast matchmaking, the overall experience is smooth and highly replayable.”
    • “Speaking of gameplay, the game runs smooth and the replayability feels endless because every match is different than the previous one.”
    • “Lots of replay value with different items and loadouts to equip.”
    • “The game you guys have created is great, but it lacks replayability.”
    • “The replayability isn't amazing and the novelty wears off after a few hours, but it's still a unique spin on the battle royale genre and is worth trying out as long as it stays free.”
    • “But I have a few suggestions, we definitely need ranked because this would make the game so much more playable if it had an ELO system like H1Z1, LoL, or CSGO has.”
  • atmosphere
    19 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its immersive and engaging qualities, with players highlighting the stunning visuals, dynamic day and night cycles, and diverse environments that enhance the overall experience. Many reviewers appreciate the game's ability to create a captivating setting that encourages exploration and interaction, making it stand out in the battle royale genre. However, some critiques mention inconsistencies in graphics quality, suggesting that while the atmosphere is compelling, it may not be universally appealing.

    • “Amazing game with a beautiful atmosphere and fast-paced action combat.”
    • “It has such a great atmosphere and vibe to it, and is really a quality product - it's not too buggy and is well polished from my experience with it so far.”
    • “The atmosphere is just jaw-dropping; at times I catch myself not even playing but just sitting and admiring the different scenery.”
    • “Atmosphere 4/10”
    • “First off, I just need to say that directors are there to improve the overall feeling of the game and atmosphere. They are there to spice things up and make what is otherwise a standard battle royale into an interactive and fun environment.”
  • emotional
    13 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Players express a deep emotional connection to the game, highlighting its supportive community and wholesome interactions, which evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia. However, there is also a sense of heartbreak over its decline and potential unfulfilled, with some users feeling a mix of attachment and frustration. Overall, the emotional experience ranges from uplifting camaraderie to disappointment over the game's fate.

    • “What happened to this game makes me want to cry.”
    • “That really made me feel good to see that.”
    • “Best game ever dude, no cap bruh, like on god and my momma this game made me feel better about not having a daddy.”
  • character development
    4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Character development in the game receives mixed reviews, with some players appreciating the charm of the simple designs and the impactful visual effects during combat, while others criticize the character designs and animations as unappealing and poorly executed. Overall, there is a desire for more variety in character designs and environments to enhance the experience.

    • “The character designs, although relatively simple, have their charm, and the visual effects during combat add impact to the action.”
    • “A fun game with a cool Hunger Games feel; however, it would be nice to see different maps and different character designs.”
    • “The in-game character designs and animations are awful.”
    • “I don't know what planet they came from if they thought it would be appealing in any way... (probably planet sheen if I had to guess) but whoever gave the greenlight to these character designs really shouldn't be making those kinds of decisions.”
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68%Critics’ scoreBased on 8 critic reviews
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14h Median play time
51h Average play time
5-80h Spent by most gamers
*Based on 43 analyzed playthroughs
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Frequently Asked Questions

Darwin Project is a open world shooter game.

Darwin Project is available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and others.

On average players spend around 51 hours playing Darwin Project.

Darwin Project was released on January 13, 2020.

Darwin Project was developed by Scavengers Studio.

Darwin Project has received mostly positive reviews from players and mostly positive reviews from critics. Most players liked this game for its gameplay but disliked it for its story.

Darwin Project is a multiplayer game.

Similar games include Realm Royale Reforged, Spellbreak, Eternal Return, Battlerite Royale, The Culling and others.