I love survival horror games, especially when they are set in space. Hence, I couldn’t wait for the release of The Callisto Protocol, which became a reality in 2022. There were high expectations for the game from the creators, gamers, and critics, as everyone expected The Castilio Protocol to be a major hit. The release was, however, met with mixed feelings and reviews as the reception and performance were below expectations. 

The Callisto Protocol, developed by Striking Distance Studios and published by Krafton, is a survival horror action video game set to be released on December 2, 2022, for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. The game is directed by Glen Schofield, known for co-creating the Dead Space series. 

Story-Driven Game with a Dark Plot

The Callisto Protocol is a story-driven game that puts players in the shoes of Jacob Lee, who they control from a third-person perspective.  The game takes place on the Jovian moon of Callisto, where Lee has been sent to a prison facility. The player must navigate through the levels, gathering resources while fighting against infected prisoners and uncovering the dark secrets of the facility.

The Health System Feature Stands Out

The Castilio Protocol features a unique health system where players must monitor Jacob’s health with the help of an implant called a “C.O.R.E. Device” located on the back of his neck. Health can be replenished using injectable packs found throughout the levels. The game features a minimalistic HUD that displays the player’s health on the back of the character’s neck, similar to a phone battery indicator.

Variety of Weapons to Select

The Callisto Protocol features a variety of weapon types for players to use in combat. The game offers a wide range of weapon types, allowing players to experiment and find the perfect weapon for their playstyle.

Melee weapons: These include a variety of close-range weapons such as knives, hammers, and other bladed weapons, which players can use to take down enemies in close-quarters combat quickly.

Pistols: Pistols are fast and accurate firearms perfect for taking out enemies at a medium range. They are easy to handle and reload quickly.

Shotguns: Shotguns are powerful and versatile firearms perfect for taking out groups of enemies at close range. They are slow to reload but can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time.

Rifles: Rifles are long-range firearms perfect for taking out enemies from a distance. They are accurate and powerful but have a slow rate of fire.

Explosives: The Callisto Protocol also features a variety of explosive weapons, such as grenades, mines, and rocket launchers, that players can use to cause massive damage to groups of enemies or to take out tough bosses.

Special weapons: Some weapons, like the hand cannon and GRP, are exclusive to certain situations. You can use these weapons to deal deadly blows against enemies. 

It’s Easy to Upgrade from Smaller to Bigger Weapons

Initially, players only have access to melee weapons. Once players acquire firearms, they can follow up melee attacks with basic gums like the pistol, which is usually not powerful but also satisfying. Next, you can unlock more advanced weapons like assault rifles and skunk guns.

Later in the game, players acquire special weapons like the GRP and hand cannon. GRP is a type of gauntlet used by Black Iron Prison guards, which allows players to use the prisoners’ cores against them and throw them around like ragdolls. As players upgrade the power banks of the GRP, it becomes increasingly powerful, allowing players to throw any type of enemy anywhere and deal more damage.

Close Quarters Combats are Tough but Rewarding

The Callisto Protocol focuses on melee combat, particularly in the game’s early hours. With limited access to weapons and ammunition, players must rely on close-quarters combat to defeat enemies. This requires players to lure enemies in close, dodge their attacks, and counter with strikes from Jacob’s stun baton. The game’s thumbstick-based dodging and blocking mechanics are reminiscent of a boxing game, providing a unique and intense combat experience.

 The game’s close-quarters combat offers a risk-reward choice, with players having to get close to enemies to perform melee attacks rather than trying to take them out from a distance. This added an enjoyable layer of challenge to the game, and the camera pulled in close to provide a more immersive experience and highlight the carnage of the combat.

Environmental Hazard Could be a Blessing or a Curse

One of the unique features of The Callisto Protocol is the ability to use the environment to defeat enemies. Players can use the GRP to throw enemies against spikes, grinders, or over ledges, which is overpowered and satisfying when executed correctly. However, players are also vulnerable to these environmental hazards, which can be frustrating, especially when combined with the clunky and awkward movement of the protagonist, Jacob. He stumbles around when hit or when throwing his attacks, often leading to players moving across the room unintentionally. Players should stay away from environmental hazards to avoid these issues.

Many Boss Fights Aren’t Engaging Enough

The Callisto Protocol lacks boss fights until the end of the game, resulting in a lack of variety in the gameplay. This means players repeatedly fight the same type of enemies with no breaks for a more engaging or exciting battle. The game strips out many elements that make games in the genre, such as Resident Evil and The Evil Within, enjoyable and offers a bland, half-baked version of the Dead Space series.

Players can mix and match combat styles to adapt to enemy types, providing a diverse combat experience. In addition to combat, players can collect and listen to audio logs during gameplay, which adds an extra layer of depth to the story.

Conclusion

The Callisto Protocol is a survival horror action video game that promises to offer players a thrilling and intense gaming experience. With its rich and immersive world set on Jupiter’s moon, Callisto, players can expect intense combat, a gripping story, and a rich and immersive world explore in The Callisto Protocol.