Released in early access last August, Hawked, the treasure-hunting-themed shooter from My.Games, is now available on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. This indie free-to-play game, supported by a battle pass, features a lively color scheme, lootable weapon caches, and playable characters called Renegades, inviting comparisons to Fortnite. However, Hawked offers unique gameplay elements and deviations that appeal to fans of squad-based battle royales and extraction shooters.
Game Rant had the chance to experience Hawked firsthand before its release, exploring its diverse range of firearms, innovative customization options, and traversal mechanics. The game unfolds with players working for Grail, a not-so-evil corporation focused on plundering ancient relics on X-Isle for the betterment of humanity (and profit).
Distinct from Fortnite, Unique in Its Own Right
Hawked positions itself as a PVPVE extraction shooter, where multiple 3-player squads land on the outskirts of X-Isle simultaneously to scavenge rare treasures from the island's sealed vault. Unlike games with shrinking play areas, X-Isle requires players to collect glyphs to manually unlock the vault, creating additional conflict points. The tension peaks during the extraction phase, as relic holders strive to power up a teleporter and flee with the loot.
Successful extraction allows players to enhance their loadout with new abilities unlocked by relics. Renegades can choose from two types of support items, like a boomerang sub-weapon or a lantern with seeking projectiles that cause burning effects. Players earn currency to unlock and upgrade these utilities.
Unlike games directly emulating Fortnite or Apex Legends, Hawked blends influences but maintains a unique gameplay style. Instead of mimicking Fortnite, the game strives to carve its own path and showcase originality within this genre.
Where Extraction Shooter Meets Uncharted
In Hawked, the thrill lies in collecting glyphs, often through combat trials or simple puzzles reminiscent of shooting galleries. One puzzle involves freeing and guiding an imprisoned island spirit to reveal a glyph's location, granting temporary buffs like increased speed.
While these challenges are not as intricate as those in Uncharted, they provide a fast-paced, roller-coaster-like experience, especially when other players are involved.
Hawked hints at MOBA elements with enemy NPC camps scattered across X-Isle. These NPCs guard supply crates or glyphs, adding an extra layer of challenge. Occasionally, formidable boss-like foes emerge from portals to disrupt squads' plans.
Robust Gunplay and Thrilling Mobility
Hawked's gun mechanics are precise and satisfying, with revolvers packing a punch and rifles delivering swift takedowns based on range. Sci-fi weapons add diversity, and gear upgrades come in different tiers like in Fortnite. The movement system includes fun traversal options like grappling, pole vaulting, and wall running at specific locations on X-Isle. Renegades can also swiftly navigate water areas using a hoverboard-like mount.
However, some movement aspects feel off, such as a short-range dodge move that contrasts with the game's tone. Players can bunny hop indefinitely, making it a must for efficient travel. These quirks could be addressed with tweaks to the stamina system.
Addressing Technical Challenges in Hawked
While Hawked excels in gameplay, some technical issues were evident during the preview. Occasional bugs led to blank screens, necessitating client restarts post interactions with vendors and NPCs in the Renegade hub. Ping spikes were noted in matches, likely due to EU server hosting. Local servers could resolve lag concerns for North American players. Despite these glitches, Hawked remains an enticing option for Fortnite enthusiasts seeking a fresh experience and adventure game fans ready for multiplayer action.
Hawked is now available for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.