After countless Alphas and Betas (and lets not even start on the Capas and Decas), Turtle Rock Studios and 2K have finally released Evolve, the 4v1 multiplayer shooter/monster simulator. We have had several discussions in the past regarding this game, including content impressions/fears and our issues with the games rather coercive pre-order incentive structure, but through it all, I have maintained my interest in this game. I love the idea of asymmetric multiplayer, and every match I played felt fresh. While it is not the first asymmetric game, it feels like the most polished example of the medium I have played. My lasting concerns remained around the sheer amount of content incorporated in the full priced package. It must be re-iterated, however, that those same concerns existed with Titanfall and that game satiated my multiplayer needs for a good 4 months last year.

I have not yet had the chance to play the game post-launch so I am in no place to give my own impressions. Thankfully, there are plenty of reviews starting to pop up that are giving the game a rather favourable grade. Here are a few for your perusal.

The Escapist: All in all, when Evolve is working well, it’s one of the most enjoyable co-op experiences I have had in a long time. It looks great, the varied classes are all fun to play, and there’s almost certain to be one that becomes your favorite. It’s a great addition to Turtle Rock’s resume, and a solid entry into the early release slate for 2015. (9/10)

Game Spot: As with Turtle Rock’s Left 4 Dead, Evolve is best when you play with buddies; getting matched with a novice can lead to ghastly results if your newfound friend constantly seeks out the nonexistent “I” in “team.” It doesn’t take long to whip a newcomer into shape, at least, meaning you can usually focus on Evolve’s unique brand of greatness: the suspense of the hunt, the exhilaration of battle, and the drive to dominate Shear. Even Sasquatch would shiver at the dangers. (8/10)

Polygon: Evolve occasionally brushes against a real breakthrough for Turtle Rock, with its distinctive take on a different kind of multiplayer shooter. New territory always presents new problems, andEvolve doesn’t always solve them. But it distinguishes itself from the pack of multiplayer options out there with the flair of something truly different. (8/10)

Shack News: In a world of overcrowded shooters, I’ve grown to enjoy Evolve and the uniqueness it brings to the table. One item that should be noted, though, is the shakiness of the game’s shooting mechanics.[…] able for an enjoyable multiplayer session is set, whether jumping in with friends or getting more anti-social and devouring opponents as a lone monster. But considering some of the subpar game modes, I can’t help but feel this package could have been something bigger. (7/10)

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