Gamefings logoimg
Retro Game Review banner

Review of Apocalypse on PlayStation

by Jay Aborro Jay Aborro photo Nov 1998
Cover image of Apocalypse on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 7
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 17 Nov 1998
Genre: Third-person shooter, Platform game
Developer: Neversoft Entertainment
Publisher: Activision

Introduction

the late 90s, where the only thing cooler than a PlayStation was the ability to moonwalk in a 64-bit world. Enter 'Apocalypse', a game that shouts 'action' louder than a headbanger at a Metallica concert. Featuring Bruce Willis as the game's leading man, Trey Kincaid, it's like 'Die Hard' but you're the one running around blowing things up. So buckle up, because we're diving into a world where your biggest problem isn't finding a bathroom - it's fighting off evil scientists and the Horsemen of the Apocalypse.

Gameplay

'Apocalypse' throws you into a world of chaos and carnage, tasking you with shooting at all things that move - plus a few that don't. The gameplay revolves around multidirectional shooting combined with platforming, which is essentially like trying to do a backflip while dodging a paintball barrage. You maneuver Kincaid using the trusty directional pad or the left analog stick, and shooting is done by pressing face buttons or flicking the right stick like you're trying to get a stubborn piece of cheese off your favorite cracker. You've got a variety of weapons at your disposal, from the infinite ammo submachine gun (thank you, game devs, for not making us count bullets) to more explosive options like a flamethrower and grenade launcher. And let's not forget your "Smart bombs" - because nothing says apocalypse like some smart bombs taking out your problems. Mobility is key: jump, roll, grab ledges, or panic and flail about like you've had one too many Red Bulls. The combat feels fluid, fast-paced, and just chaotic enough to make you feel like a real superhero. Or a really aggressive plumber.

Graphics

Visually, 'Apocalypse' packed a punch for its time. 3D environments that are actually recognizable (count your blessings) combined with your favorite late-90s color palette make for a standout experience. The cutscenes are like miniature movies, and you can practically hear Bruce Willis' one-liners as he blasts his way through the various settings. Animations were smooth enough to keep you invested, even if they lack the level of polish we're accustomed to these days. The designs for the enemies - including the Horsemen and a whimsical assortment of zombies and robots - are detailed, reflecting the devs' chaotic vision for a world that seems to have gone off the rails.

Conclusion

So does 'Apocalypse' do justice to its star-studded cast and thrilling premise? Yes and no. It's a fun ride that combines platforming with frantic shooting, and who doesn't want to play a game where Bruce Willis is the hero? Is it going to win Game of the Year? Probably not, but it isn't a total loss either. While some mechanics feel a bit dated now, and the voice acting could make a coffee cup fall asleep (seriously, Bruce, try throwing in some enthusiasm), this game still manages to deliver a handsome modicum of enjoyment, especially for those late-night gaming sessions. Overall, 'Apocalypse' is a solid 7 out of 10; it's a wild experience that's worth your time if you're looking to kick back, blow things up, and chuckle while doing it. If you can find it, give it a whirl and see if you agree - just don't tell the Reverend.

See Prices for Apocalypse on PlayStation on Ebay

See Latest Prices for Apocalypse on PlayStation on Amazon

Related
Latest
image for news article 'Sophie Turner Is Lara Croft — How Tomb Raider's Brutal Skill Ceiling Will Shape Amazon's TV Take'
Hemal Harris - 04 Sep 2025
Sophie Turner will play Lara Croft in Amazon's Tomb Raider series. Here's how the show can capture the games' brutal challenge loo...
image for news article 'Gamescom 2025: From Hornet's Revenge to Gunfights in the Future — The Biggest Reveals, Ranked by Hype (and Probability of Screaming)'
Gemma Looksby - 27 Aug 2025
Gamescom 2025 unleashed release dates, surprises, and enough nostalgia to power a retro arcade. Hollow Knight: Silksong finally la...
image for news article 'From Sidekick to Symptom: An In-Depth Look at How Game Characters Grow (and Break) Over Time'
Tanya Krane - 22 Aug 2025
A witty, in-depth analysis of how video game characters evolve - from antiheroes and companions to tragic villains - and how gamep...
image for news article 'Helldivers 2: The Ultimate Skill Test — How to Survive When Friendly Fire Is A Feature'
Hemal Harris - 22 Aug 2025
Helldivers 2 turns cooperative shooters into a terrifying teamwork exam. From friendly-fire fiascos to stratagem juggling and glob...
image for news article 'PlayStation Plus August Drop: Mortal Kombat 1, Spider-Man, Sword of the Sea and Two Resident Evils — Sony’s Buffet of Beatdowns and Beachside Introspection'
Chucky - 22 Aug 2025
Sony's August PlayStation Plus drop mixes Mortal Kombat 1 and Marvel's Spider-Man with day-one indie Sword of the Sea, EDF6 co-op ...
image for news article 'Tariff Drama and Console Character Arcs: How the PS5 Price Hike Recasts PlayStation's Story'
Tanya Krane - 21 Aug 2025
Sony just raised PS5 prices in the US - but this is more than a number. We break down the cast, the catalyst (hello, tariffs), and...
image for news article 'The Nintendo Switch 2: An Overhyped Second Date That Actually Went Well'
Chucky - 14 Jun 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 has hit the market, and it's selling like hotcakes! Here's what you need to know about this slightly improved se...