- November 22, 2013
- Iron Galaxy Studios
- 14h median play time
Killer Instinct
Killer Instinct returns as an Xbox One exclusive after a long hiatus. It's one of the most thrilling and enjoyable games at the start of this new console generation.
Platforms
About
"Killer Instinct" is a free-to-play fighting game with a variety of characters, each with unique abilities and combos. The game offers a comprehensive combat system with various mechanics, including auto-doubles, counters, and combo breakers. It also features a story mode, online multiplayer, and regular updates with new characters and content.






- The rollback netcode is the best in the business, providing a smooth online experience.
- The music, composed by Mick Gordon, is amazing and enhances the gameplay experience.
- The characters are diverse, well-designed, and balanced, making for a fun and engaging fighting experience.
- The free-to-play model is misleading, offering only one rotating character and requiring payment for the full roster.
- The game lacks a traditional story mode, which may disappoint players looking for narrative depth.
- There are issues with online matchmaking and connectivity, leading to crashes and difficulty finding matches.
- music466 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
The music in the game has received widespread acclaim, particularly for its dynamic soundtrack composed by renowned artists like Mick Gordon, known for his work on the Doom series. Players appreciate how the music enhances the gameplay experience, with tracks that adapt to the action and unique themes for each character, creating an engaging atmosphere. Overall, the soundtrack is considered one of the best in fighting games, contributing significantly to the game's appeal and nostalgia.
“The stage tracks are beautifully tied into gameplay—your combos not only change the pacing and intensity of the music, but can also trigger a unique musical sequence for each character’s ultra combo.”
“The soundtrack is so impressive that I felt the need to purchase it too, it's just that great.”
“The music is composed by Mick Gordon, the same composer from Doom [2016], and it changes dynamically during fights, enhancing the overall experience.”
“The music is forgettable, and the sound effects lack punch.”
“The stage music on levels is bland and not memorable.”
“In summary, I am really disappointed in KI 2013 as I was really looking forward to it and had been hyping myself up with the soundtrack for the past few years.”
Killer Instinct
Killer Instinct returns as an Xbox One exclusive after a long hiatus. It's one of the most thrilling and enjoyable games at the start of this new console generation.
80%Killer Instinct Review
Killer Instinct is an incredible fast paced, technical fighter with plenty of Evo tournament potential and ideal for those looking for a combo-centric challenge to master. For the more casual fighting game player it's hard to master and the basics aren't going to cut it once you come face to face with the ridiculous combos that can be unleashed against you. However, right now it's essentially in Beta release; until all planned content is implemented the game's only half done. For now the future's looking bright for the reimaged Killer Instinct. Time will tell.
70%Killer Instinct Review
Killer Instinct is a beautiful, fun and entertaining fighting game. But the lack of fighters and arcade mode is sorely disappointing.
75%