Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Hellgate: London’s core gameplay delivers a frenetic blend of first-person shooter and action RPG mechanics. You’ll choose from distinct classes—such as the nimble Rifleman, the melee-focused Guardian, or the mystical Summoner—and tear through procedurally generated corridors teeming with demonic hordes. Combat feels fluid and responsive, with a satisfying weight to each weapon swing and gunfire exchange.

The Collector’s Edition sweetens the experience with the exclusive in-game pet “Mantawraith,” a spectral companion that not only adds visual flair but also lends minor stat buffs and loot-finding perks. Having a familiar at your side encourages exploration of every nook and cranny in post-apocalyptic London, rewarding thorough players with extra resources and occasional surprise drops.

Progression is driven by loot and skill upgrades, encouraging repeated runs through randomized dungeons. Boss encounters demand quick reflexes and strategic use of equipment, while the Mantawraith companion can tip the scales in your favor during tough skirmishes. Overall, the gameplay loop is engaging and addictive, striking a solid balance between challenge and reward.

Graphics

Though Hellgate: London is built on a slightly dated engine, it still impresses with its dark, Gothic visuals and atmospheric lighting. The ruined streets of London are convincingly bleak, with dynamic shadows and flickering neon signs that heighten the game’s moody, post-invasion ambiance. Weather and particle effects—such as drifting ash and smoldering embers—do a great job of immersing players in this hellish landscape.

The Collector’s Edition includes a high-quality map poster that showcases the art team’s environmental design in glorious detail. Pin it on your wall to pore over each district’s layout, then return to the game with a better grasp of hidden shortcuts and secret locales. This tangible keepsake not only looks great but also complements your in-game exploration.

Fans of dark fantasy will appreciate the Dark Horse Hellgate: London graphic novel. Its richly illustrated panels echo the game’s visual style, from blood-spattered cathedrals to demonic underworld vistas. Flipping through this book reinforces the game’s artistic direction and offers fresh angles on familiar settings, bridging the gap between interactive and print media.

Story

Set in the aftermath of a catastrophic demonic invasion, Hellgate: London thrusts players into a world teetering on the brink of annihilation. You assume the role of a survivor determined to uncover the origins of the apocalypse and thwart the demonic hierarchy’s grand plan. The narrative unfolds through mission briefings, in-game journals, and voice-over dialogue, delivering a concise yet engaging storyline.

The Dark Horse graphic novel included in this Collector’s Edition expands upon the game’s lore, introducing new characters and delving into the early days of the invasion. Reading it provides deeper context for in-game events and forges emotional connections to the factions vying for control of the ruined city. It’s a must-have for completionists who crave every fragment of the Hellgate mythos.

The bonus DVD rounds out the storytelling experience with behind-the-scenes footage and the official soundtrack. Watching developers discuss level design and villain concepts enhances your appreciation for the world they’ve crafted, while the haunting orchestral themes and industrial rock tracks set the perfect tone both in and out of play.

Overall Experience

The Hellgate: London Collector’s Edition is a treasure trove for action RPG enthusiasts and series aficionados alike. You receive the full base game alongside a beautifully rendered map poster, a Dark Horse graphic novel that deepens the lore, a bonus DVD packed with making-of material and the official soundtrack, plus the exclusive Mantawraith in-game pet. This combination of digital and physical extras delivers exceptional bang for your buck.

Beyond the extra content, the core experience remains a fun, loot-driven romp through demonic-infested ruins. The Mantawraith companion, for example, encourages deeper engagement with exploration and combat, while the graphic novel and DVD enrich your understanding of the setting and creative process. Together, these elements forge a more holistic and immersive package than a standard edition would.

While some mechanics show their age, Hellgate: London’s gripping atmosphere, tuneful soundtrack, and engaging loot system hold up surprisingly well. If you’ve been seeking an action RPG with a unique post-apocalyptic twist—and a Collector’s Edition that truly enhances your connection to its world—this release is an easy recommendation. Step into the ruined streets of London, summon your Mantawraith, and prepare for a demon-slaying adventure that blends gameplay, art, and lore into one cohesive experience.

Retro Replay Score

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