Buckle up, gamers, because we're diving into the prehistoric chaos that is Code Violet – and trust us, it’s not the thrill ride you’ve been waiting for. This game promises a wild mix of beautiful brunettes and dinosaurs, wrapped up in a glossy sci-fi package. But beyond those eyecatching screenshots, what does Code Violet really bring to the table? Spoiler alert: It’s not much.
Code Violet flutters around a cliché-ridden plot of space colonization and genetic tinkering, trying to craft a tense survival story. What we get instead is a jumble of derivative arcs and hasty revelations that leave us more confused than curious. Side stories hold some intrigue, but most of what you’ll encounter is forgettable or awkwardly pieced together as you stalk through its corridors.
To make matters worse, Violet, our so-called heroine, lacks the compelling spark of legends like Jill Valentine or Lara Croft. She’s a blank slate, moving at the whim of others, bewilderedly tossing tears every time the plot throws a curveball. This missed opportunity for a nuanced protagonist is made worse by the game’s misjudged camera work and wardrobe options that border on creepy rather than empowering.
If you thought Violet would at least exhibit some badass shooting skills amid the chaos, you’ll be disappointed. Her shooting escapades are clunky and as exciting as watching paint dry. The level design? It dabbles in mediocrity with uninspired stretches, only occasionally finding its stride in visually interesting zones – but those moments, alas, are fleeting.
Graphically, Code Violet isn't entirely without merit. When viewed at a distance, particularly on a standard PlayStation 5, some settings impress. However, get too close and the spectacle fades into a muddled mess.
In a gaming world craving bold narratives and dynamic characters, it’s ironic that Code Violet manages to misfire, even when the audience is primed for vibrant, sexy storytelling. With games like Baldur’s Gate 3 raising the bar for character depth and player engagement, Code Violet feels like an opportunity squandered, leaving us with a game as lifeless as the dinosaurs prowling its ill-designed halls.