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Review of XDefiant on Xbox Series X/S

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo May 2024
Cover image of XDefiant on Xbox Series X/S
Gamefings Score: 6.5
Released: 21 May 2024
Genre: First-person shooter
Developer: Ubisoft San Francisco
Publisher: Ubisoft

Introduction

Saddle up your ultimate fist-fighting stock images, ladies and gents, because we're plunging into XDefiant! This party shooter aims to marinate players in frantic 6v6 skirmishes amid a melting pot of beloved Ubisoft characters. If a colorful cast of characters governed by chaotic rules sounds like your jam, then dust off your console and grab a can of soda because we're about to dive deeper than your mom's worries about your life choices!

Gameplay

XDefiant features a vibrant array of factions, each baking up their own chaotic fun. Think of it as a Ubisoft-flavored stew merged with multiplayer madness. Players can roll with Defiants - characters extracted from various Ubisoft universes, including the serious stalwarts of Splinter Cell, Rainbow Six, and more! Want to jump into some fast-paced, team-based matches while mix-and-matching tactics, abilities, and gadgets? This chaotic chaos is for you! Games like this require a degree of coordination, almost like herding cats who smoke crack, and that's where it gets interesting. With maps crafted from a gender-neutral salad of Ubisoft's previous game locales, there are opportunities to showcase your skills, whether you prefer stealth and strategy or want to nail the 'Leroy Jenkins' approach to heroic stupidity. Expect game modes that range from the classic 'Domination' mode to wacky escort missions that could throw a wrench in your day. The linear gameplay keeps users on their toes while allowing crafty Defiants to optimize their classes with absurd customization options! Mold your characters into the ultimate baes of destruction with traits and devices that amplify psycho levels to an all-time high.

Graphics

Visually, XDefiant flaunts a vibrant aesthetic that's as appealing as a milkshake served with a rainbow swirl straw. The graphics engine-drumroll, please-utilizes Ubisoft's Snowdrop. And while some may compare it to other contemporary shooters, the bright colors paired with the character design bring a whimsical, almost cartoony charm that's likable. The environments are detailed, and as chaotic as an 18th-century disco party, making battles feel alive and genuinely zesty. Of course, there will be the occasional hiccup-think falling into a shrub or having a wall suddenly siren you into submission during an intense firefight. But the overall visual package serves as a delightful sugar rush, perfect for blowing off steam after a long day binge-watching your favorite anime.

Conclusion

In summary, XDefiant tries hard to change the game, but similar to a kid trying to do a backflip for the first time, it winds up somewhat awkward and a bit rough around the edges. While it shines brightly in character and colorful gameplay, it walks a fine line of being completely 'out there' and not understanding whether it would be better as a battle royale or arena shooter. Ultimately, if you're a fan of Ubisoft's universe or just want a chaotic experience with a darker inner child, give XDefiant a whirl. Just make sure to do it before all the cool kids decide to log off permanently!

See Latest Prices for XDefiant on Xbox Series X/S on Amazon

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