Dust off your cricket bat! Rebellion, the minds behind Atomfall, have announced that the game’s second story expansion, “The Red Strain,” is slated for release this September. The expansion seems to feature a unique, non-traditional robot character somehow connected to a proliferation of red plant life spreading throughout the quarantined Cumberland zone.
This new downloadable content follows ” Wicked Isle,” the first expansion for Atomfall, which was automatically included for those who purchased the deluxe version of the post-nuclear survival experience. This upcoming expansion presents a compelling reason to revisit the game and delve into the mysteries of the island.
According to Rebellion’s concise announcement on their blog, accompanied by a trailer, “The Red Strain” will be available on September 16th. While detailed information remains scarce, the developers have hinted at “a highly confidential new location and plenty more mysteries to uncover.”
The trailer, which can be viewed below, showcases what appears to be an outbreak of strange, crimson flora linked to a robot with human-like brain components, belonging to an organization known as CORE. It is speculated that CORE might be distinct from, or possibly a spin-off of, the British Atomic Research Division (BARD) featured in the main game. Players can anticipate more exploration of dilapidated facilities brimming with malfunctioning devices and other enigmatic elements. Rebellion promises to reveal further details as the release date approaches.
James, from our team, expressed his appreciation for Atomfall in his review:
“While Atomfall’s shooting, stealth, and cricket batting mechanics might not be as engaging as the investigative aspects, they are functional and do not detract from the experience. With some strategic gameplay, players can focus on the intricate detective work without relying on violence. Despite the game’s setting, there are far worse places for a detective to find themselves.”
I generally concur with this sentiment, although my review from my previous publication offered a slightly more tempered perspective. I felt that the game’s endings lacked the punch needed to fully satisfy the compelling intrigue built throughout the player’s journey across the hazardous areas. This, in my view, prevented Atomfall from completely realizing its goal of delivering a compact yet immersive experience, but it is a matter of opinion. Players who are more drawn to Atomfall’s British sci-fi influences than expecting the over-the-top radioactive scenarios of Fallout might find the conclusions entirely acceptable.
Regardless, I need to play Wicked Isle, so I’m prioritizing the game on my ever-growing list. To constantly remind myself, I’ve inscribed this list on my inner thigh, guaranteeing that every time I find my mind wandering, I’m reminded that I bought The Saboteur in a Steam sale a long time ago and have never played it.