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Killer Instinct

Though the roster limits the possibilities a bit, Killer Instinct makes a triumphant return with smart, fluid fighting.
83%Game Brain Score
music, gameplay
monetization, grinding
89% User Score Based on 2,631 reviews
Critic Score 74%Based on 13 reviews

Platforms

PCPCSteam DeckSteam DeckWindowsWindowsXbox OneXbox OneXbox Series X|SXbox Series X|SCloudCloudXboxXboxXbox Cloud GamingXbox Cloud GamingXbox Game PassXbox Game Pass
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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.

Genres & Tags
Play Modes
Killer Instinct screenshot
Killer Instinct screenshot
Killer Instinct screenshot
Killer Instinct screenshot
Killer Instinct screenshot
Killer Instinct screenshot

89%
Audience ScoreBased on 2,644 reviews
music239 positive mentions
monetization11 negative mentions
  • 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.
  • music
    466 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.”
  • gameplay
    376 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay of Killer Instinct is characterized by its unique and engaging combo system, which allows for both accessibility for newcomers and depth for veterans, making it easy to learn yet challenging to master. Players appreciate the fluid mechanics, diverse character roster, and the innovative combo breaker system that keeps matches dynamic and competitive. While some critiques mention a lack of narrative depth and occasional mechanical frustrations, the overall consensus highlights the game's fast-paced action, excellent netcode, and a stellar soundtrack, making it a standout in the fighting game genre.

    • “The gameplay is deep, easy to learn, hard to master, so it's KI with almost all modern mechanics added.”
    • “The gameplay still has the classic combo-based mechanics such as openers, special attacks, auto-doubles, linkers, manuals, enders, combo breakers, and ultra combos but also adds new mechanics such as stage ultras that can be triggered on certain arenas, counter breakers to counter even combo breakers while also airborne, aerial recaptures to keep the combo going, shadow meter for enhanced attacks, and finally instincts mode that gives you different powerful buffs depending on the character.”
    • “With its stunning graphics, fluid gameplay mechanics, and diverse roster of characters, Killer Instinct offers an exhilarating experience for both newcomers and veterans alike.”
    • “The gameplay is fast-paced, its all about getting those long punishing combos in to win the game.”
    • “The bad: the most asinine combo mechanics ever implemented into a fighting game.”
    • “Gameplay is not fun.”
  • graphics
    269 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The graphics of *Killer Instinct* have received mixed reviews, with many praising the vibrant, cel-shaded visuals and fluid animations that enhance the overall aesthetic experience. While some players appreciate the modern upgrades and detailed character designs, others criticize certain aspects as outdated or lacking polish compared to other contemporary fighting games. Overall, the game is noted for its impressive visuals that successfully blend classic and modern styles, though opinions vary on their execution and impact on gameplay.

    • “The graphics are top-notch, showcasing fluid animations and vibrant, cel-shaded visuals that give the game a distinctive aesthetic.”
    • “The graphics are absolutely stunning, with bright colors and detailed character models that will make you want to pause the game just to admire them.”
    • “In addition to its addictive gameplay, Killer Instinct boasts stunning visuals that bring each character and stage to life.”
    • “One of the most glaring issues with Killer Instinct is the weak character design and lackluster graphics.”
    • “The graphics are subpar compared to other games in the genre, leaving the impression that not enough effort was put into refining the game’s visual quality.”
    • “On the negative side, the graphics look very ugly to me, even considering the year the game was made.”
  • story
    208 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's story aspect has received mixed reviews, with many players noting a lack of depth and character development compared to other fighting games like Mortal Kombat. While the "Shadow Lords" mode offers a unique roguelike experience with some narrative elements, the traditional story mode is criticized for being minimal and lacking engaging content, with many characters not having dedicated story arcs. Overall, while there are interesting elements and modes, the storytelling is often seen as underwhelming and not a primary focus of the game.

    • “The game has an amazing story, music, easy tutorial to learn moves and combos, an auto mode for combos to help newcomers to enjoy and have fun, and a fun custom mode for characters.”
    • “The shadow lords section is interesting, and the arcade/story mode is fun.”
    • “The story seems to take place in an alternate timeline that's separated into 3 seasons for selected characters leading the plot from dealing with personal quests and reading slide shows in a traditional arcade tower mode to Aria gaining control of Earth and having cutscenes alongside the slideshows with choices that affect the next fights.”
    • “Where this game lacks the most is the story modes for each character.”
    • “Sadly, story mode doesn't have a story.”
    • “The game's world and backstory is typically convoluted and messy with lots of old-school clichés, from evil megacorps to ancient sorcerers, sapient AIs, and extra-dimensional invaders.”
  • monetization
    56 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The monetization in this game has received mixed reviews, with many players criticizing the aggressive microtransactions and the perception of it being a cash grab, particularly in modes like Shadow Lords. While some users note that microtransactions are largely cosmetic and can be ignored or earned through gameplay, others feel that they detract from the overall experience and liken the system to that of mobile games. Overall, while the game is enjoyable, the presence of microtransactions remains a contentious issue among players.

    • “It has in-game purchases, but you can play it easily without them, either online or single player.”
    • “Microtransactions are optional here, and XP is about the only thing that fast-tracks any player to anything, thankfully.”
    • “While it has microtransactions, they honestly may as well be removed from the game and nothing would change; it's only a quicker way to unlock skins/portraits/fluff you'll unlock on your own eventually.”
    • “One of the worst cash grabs I have experienced in a while.”
    • “While the game has good 3D graphics, the experience is soured by the immediately apparent and aggressive monetization in a game where microtransactions are sorely unnecessary in a faux 'free-to-play' model.”
    • “Capcom has thrown salt in the wound after cheating people by putting advertisements in their games, even for those who paid over $120 for the full content of the game.”
  • optimization
    40 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The optimization of the game receives mixed reviews, with some players praising its smooth performance and compatibility with lower-end hardware, while others report significant performance issues, including choppy frames and poor network stability. Many users highlight that the game runs well on Steam compared to the Microsoft Store version, but frustrations arise from locked characters and performance tests that hinder online play. Overall, while some find it well-optimized and enjoyable, others experience considerable drawbacks that detract from the gaming experience.

    • “The game runs smoothly now, love the high res graphics upgrade.”
    • “This game is so unbelievably well optimized, and is one of the best fighting games ever made, couldn't recommend it enough.”
    • “The game's performance is amazing, both with local and online play.”
    • “99% of the game isn't here until you pay, and it doesn't run that well. Optimization options are poor; I switched to full screen mode and the screen got smaller than the default window with choppy frames.”
    • “Sadly, it's riddled with performance issues and suffers from a lack of players.”
    • “Probably could have been better optimized; I get slowdown, but I can run more graphically intensive and script-heavy games faster than this.”
  • character development
    36 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Character development in the game is a mixed bag, with some praising the unique and creative character designs that stand out in the fighting game genre, while others criticize certain designs as bland or generic. Many reviews highlight the impressive customization options and the depth of character backstories, but there are also mentions of inconsistent aesthetics and a lack of narrative depth. Overall, the game features a diverse roster with memorable designs, though opinions vary on their execution and appeal.

    • “It easily is one of the best fighting games in terms of soundtrack, sound design, atmosphere, and character design.”
    • “Filled with some of the best fighting game character designs in recent memory, one of the greatest fighting game soundtracks ever, and looking gorgeous to boot.”
    • “Great character design and intense frenetic combos.”
    • “Drawing parallels to Killer Instinct, it boasts superior combo mechanics, but lacks in story depth and character development.”
    • “One of the most glaring issues with Killer Instinct is the weak character design and lackluster graphics.”
    • “If I have to put a negative, it's that KI always had a kind of generic and bland character design compared to the competition, but I guess character customization can mitigate that.”
  • grinding
    19 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Reviews indicate that grinding in the game can be extensive, particularly for unlocking characters and items, with some players expressing frustration over the time investment required. While the game offers a variety of modes and unlockables that can be obtained through gameplay, many feel that the grind is exacerbated by microtransactions and the need for significant playtime to access certain features. However, some players appreciate that the grind is less punishing compared to other titles, allowing for a more enjoyable experience overall.

    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “I grinded the original games; I'm not grinding for characters anymore.”
    • “I'm kind of tired of games needing to insert microtransactions and grinding levels into a game where it's not necessary.”
    • “Guess they want me to pay for the others or take hundreds of hours grinding for more.”
    • “This game started as a free-to-play game so it's understandable, sure, they should have changed it and removed the microtransactions entirely and redone the system a bit more cause even though it doesn't take ages to get everything, it's grindy nonetheless.”
  • stability
    19 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The stability of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players experiencing frequent freezes, crashes, and graphical glitches, particularly on certain platforms. While many users report smooth performance and good optimization, especially on lower-end systems, others caution against playing due to persistent bugs. Overall, the game appears to be in the process of being patched, but stability issues remain a concern for a significant number of players.

    • “Runs great on the deck.”
    • “It runs great on my system; I've got a CPU from 2011 (2nd gen Intel CPU) and a somewhat decent GPU (GTX 1060). I am able to crank everything on high at 1080p with 0 dips in frame rate.”
    • “You don't need a high-end computer to run this game; my computer is average and the game still runs great on it.”
    • “🚨 Do not play this buggy game.”
    • “Bought the game when it was on sale for 10 bucks, and that's about all that this bug-ridden piece of garbage is worth.”
    • “Amazing maps and character textures and graphics, but some of them are heavily lacking. I get freezes often and startup issues where I need to close it and keep trying to open it.”
  • humor
    15 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The humor in the game is described as a mix of unique and generic elements, with players enjoying over-the-top characters and amusing animations, such as a skeleton with a funny laugh and a speedo-wearing frog. While some find the humor engaging and entertaining, others criticize it as bland or overly reliant on clichés. Overall, the game offers moments of levity that can enhance the multiplayer experience, though opinions on its comedic effectiveness vary.

    • “I just wanted to play because the funny halo alien was in; it really rocked my socks off.”
    • “*plays the skeleton who makes the funny nyahhahahahahahaha laugh when he runs that I have spent a combined total of 200+ hours playing*”
    • “The announcer is also hilariously over the top.”
  • replayability
    13 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game boasts high replayability, with diverse gameplay modes, extensive character customization, and unique team compositions that encourage repeated play. Players appreciate the variety in character abilities and the RPG elements, which enhance the overall experience. However, some note that the game's darker aesthetic may limit playtime to certain conditions, and concerns about microtransactions exist, though they do not detract significantly from the replay value.

    • “Amazing game, nice gameplay and game modes, tons of replayability.”
    • “There is nothing quite like it out there, but think of it as a replayable roguelike mode where you pick apart the final boss' abilities while buffing your own team through a series of missions.”
    • “No two characters play alike, and that makes for an amazing amount of replay value as you learn all of the different matchups.”
    • “And with season content encouraging continued, even daily, play, not to mention the vast horde of unlockables—and yes, make way for the money whoring, for shame—this game needs the replayability.”
    • “But, what it goes for in 'realism' it loses a bit in 'fantastical effect', meaning the great 'dark and solid' vibe it has tends to make it more playable at night, in limited quantities (this is not the type of game you want to be playing in the middle of the day, too dark and scary).”
    • “There is nothing quite like it out there, so it is a bit hard to compare to anything, but think of it as a replayable roguelike mode where you pick apart the final boss' abilities while buffing your own team through a series of missions.”
  • atmosphere
    4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The atmosphere in various fighting games is often praised for its intensity and immersive qualities, with standout elements like exceptional soundtracks and character design enhancing the overall experience. Titles like Injustice 1 are highlighted for their memorable PvP sessions, while others like KOF 13 and MKX face criticism for balance issues that detract from the atmospheric enjoyment. Overall, while the atmosphere can elevate the gaming experience, it is frequently undermined by gameplay imbalances.

    • “It easily is one of the best fighting games in terms of soundtrack, sound design, atmosphere, and character design.”
    • “Style and atmosphere are crazy.”
    • “-killer atmosphere.”
  • emotional
    4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Players express a mix of emotions regarding the game's complexity and community support, feeling initially lost but ultimately comforted by the welcoming nature of fellow gamers. While the detailed tutorials boost confidence for newcomers, some long-time fans are disappointed by changes to beloved characters, feeling that these alterations dilute their original, darker essence. Overall, the emotional experience is characterized by a blend of anxiety, support, and nostalgia.

    • “The community Discord is also full of really wholesome people that would love to teach you the intricacies of this game.”
    • “Having little to no experience in fighting games made me a little afraid of playing against other players, but after going through the detailed practice tool and tutorial mode, it made me feel like I could stand a chance against them.”
    • “That being said, there are some differences with the way some of the old characters sound and feel, but nothing that severely affects the gameplay; for example, Spinal's new theme is less creepy and effective, making him feel more like a wholesome, family-friendly character rather than a blighted supernatural entity.”

74%Critics’ scoreBased on 26 critic reviews

Buy Killer Instinct

14h Median play time
42h Average play time
9-80h Spent by most gamers
*Based on 8 analyzed playthroughs

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