[Dual Analysis] Evaluation of Turbo Overkill

Turbo Overkill, the adrenaline-pumping FPS from Apogee Entertainment and Trigger Happy Interactive, has now landed on consoles with its M for Mature label. We dove into the game on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, and we’re excited to share our thoughts with you.

With its breathtaking cyberpunk aesthetic, Turbo Overkill stands out as perhaps the most brutal FPS ever crafted by Apogee. You step into the shoes of Johnny Turbo, a character enhanced with retractable arm rockets and a deadly chainsaw extending from his leg for slicing through foes.

As Johnny returns to his home city of Paradise, he uncovers a grim reality: the entire populace is under the sinister control of Syn, a renegade AI. Armed with a battalion of cybernetic henchmen, Syn has the city in chaos. Desperate to leave his history behind, Johnny takes on the monumental task of eliminating this formidable AI. With rival bounty hunters on the hunt for the same prize, Paradise is anything but peaceful.

Growing up with the classic FPS games, I eagerly awaited Turbo Overkill’s debut on the Switch. Originally a Steam release in 2023, the game centers on Johnny Turbo, who’s kitted out with arm rockets and a lethal chainsaw for legs.

Back in Paradise, Johnny faces the aftermath of Syn’s rampage—a catastrophe akin to a viral outbreak endangering all. It’s up to you to combat Syn’s minions and ultimately bring down this rogue AI.

In this FPS, you’ll guide Johnny with the left stick, aiming with the right. Perspective shifts with the D-Pad, while the B button lets you jump or double jump. The R button is for dashing, and you’ll use X for the grapple hook. L activates a vicious chainsaw slide. Your arsenal is vast; primary and secondary attacks are mapped to ZR and ZL. Press the D-Pad for a weapon wheel to switch gears, and unleash micro-missiles with Y. Activate Turbo-Time with a click of the right stick to slow down the chaos and dominate your foes.

Mastering the game’s loop involves amassing cash by defeating enemies, augmenting your abilities, and upgrading weapons. Take down bosses to claim their augments, propelling you through Turbo Overkill’s extensive levels.

As EdEN noted, Turbo Overkill offers intense FPS thrills, earning its mature rating on PlayStation 5. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the game showcases the gore and brutality players crave. Campaign Mode explores Johnny’s journey, AI Syn’s threat, and Paradise’s gritty landscape. Arcade and Endless Modes let you test your endurance and skill.

From the first level’s frenetic pace right after the initial cutscene, it’s clear why the game’s maturity rating is deserved. It’s a blood-soaked battlefield, with intuitive controls making the explosive action even more exhilarating. However, the lack of a standard back button in menus can be slightly bothersome.

Turbo Overkill caters to all skill levels with five difficulty settings. Virgin Blood eases you in with reduced enemy threat levels. Regular Joe offers a standard challenge, while Street Cleaner ups the ante with faster projectiles. Serve Me Pain and the grueling Murder Machine settings push the limits, requiring precision and quick reflexes.

Its retro-inspired presentation, echoing the 90s FPS games, paired with modern graphics, sets Turbo Overkill apart. The exaggerated field of view enhances speed, running at a smooth 60 FPS on PlayStation 5. The slightly low perspective may feel unusual at first, but you’ll quickly adapt.

With achievement hunters in mind, Turbo Overkill boasts a full trophy list on the PlayStation, including a coveted Platinum. Trophies unlock as you progress through episodes, tackle game difficulties, discover collectibles, and more.

Ultimately, Turbo Overkill revives the spirit of 90s FPS classics like Doom and Heretic, pairing nostalgia with modern mechanics for a thrilling ride.

After launching on Steam in 2023, Turbo Overkill now reaches Nintendo Switch and PlayStation. Assume the role of Johnny Turbo, facing down the AI threat in a bid to save Paradise. Though performance on Switch isn’t as sharp as PlayStation 5, trade-offs ensure fluid gameplay. It’s also a Cross-Buy on Sony’s platforms, offering great value at $19.99 for both PS4 and PS5 versions.

This review is based on copies provided on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch by Apogee Entertainment.