Title: Wolfenstein: Youngblood
Developer: MachineGames, Arkane Studios
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Released: July 26, 2019
Platforms Available: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch
Article Reading Time: 7 minutes
The Wolfenstein game series has been a staple of the first-person shooting genre for years and with the release of “Wolfenstein: Youngblood,” a new era begins. Developed by MachineGames in partnership with Arkane Studios, this installment takes a unique approach to perspective and gameplay mechanics, setting it apart from its predecessors.
The game’s narrative-focused approach has always been one of its most vital selling points, and “Youngblood” is no exception. Players are thrust into an alternate version of the 1980s, where they take on the role of Jessica and Sophia Blazkowicz, the twin daughters of the series’ protagonist, B.J. Blazkowicz. The sisters are on a mission to find their missing father in Paris, which takes them on a thrilling journey full of action, suspense, and unexpected twists.
What sets “Youngblood” apart from previous Wolfenstein titles is the introduction of new gameplay mechanics. Players can join a friend in co-op mode, strategizing and taking on enemies together. The game also introduces RPG-style elements such as character leveling and skill trees, which allow players to customize their playstyle and abilities.
Overall, “Wolfenstein: Youngblood” is a fresh and exciting addition to the franchise, pushing the boundaries of what players have come to expect from a narrative-focused first-person shooter.
The Story: Paris in the 80s
“Youngblood” catapults players into a dystopian version of the 1980s, two decades after the events of “Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus.” The narrative core of this chapter revolves around the twin daughters of series protagonist B.J. Blazkowicz, Jess and Soph. The duo embarks on a perilous quest through a Nazi-occupied Paris, a city that breathes a unique blend of historical and dystopian elements. The game’s portrayal of Paris, soaked in the oppressive atmosphere of a regime’s unyielding grip, becomes a character in its own right.
Gameplay: A Blend of Old and New
Staying true to the series’ roots, “Youngblood” offers the familiar adrenaline-pumping action, complemented by a new layer of RPG-like elements. The game introduces a leveling system and character upgrades, infusing a strategic depth into combat. The choice of weapons and abilities significantly influences the gameplay, offering players multiple approaches to combat scenarios.
The most notable addition is the cooperative gameplay. Teaming up with either an AI partner or a friend, players can experience the game’s narrative and combat in a shared environment. This cooperative aspect adds a new dimension to the gameplay, fostering a sense of camaraderie and tactical teamwork.
Graphical and Auditory Prowess
In terms of technical execution, “Wolfenstein: Youngblood” excels. The game is a visual treat, with meticulous attention to detail, rendering a haunting yet beautiful 1980s Paris. Complementing the visuals is the game’s sound design; from the resonating gunfire to the atmospheric soundtrack, it enhances the immersive experience of this dystopian world.
Character Development: A New Generation of Heroes
In “Wolfenstein: Youngblood,” players witness a narrative shift, focusing on Jess and Soph Blazkowicz as we already said. These characters embody a fresh perspective in the Wolfenstein universe, marked by youthful vigor and a relentless drive to continue their father’s legacy. The sisters’ dynamic adds a new layer to the game’s narrative, offering players a glimpse into a family saga deeply rooted in the fight against tyranny. Their development throughout the game, from inexperienced rookies to seasoned warriors, mirrors the player’s journey, aligning character progression with gameplay expertise.
“In the evolution of the story of ‘Wolfenstein: The New Order,’ ‘Youngblood’ presents a stark contrast in tone and perspective. While ‘The New Order’ offers a deep dive into the haunting and oppressive atmosphere of a Nazi-dominated world through the eyes of the seasoned warrior B.J. Blazkowicz, ‘Youngblood’ shifts the focus to his twin daughters, infusing the narrative with fresh energy and a new generation’s fight against tyranny. This transition symbolizes the series’ adaptability, weaving together threads of continuity and innovation. For a deeper exploration of this narrative shift, our detailed review of ‘Wolfenstein: The New Order offers valuable insights into the series’ foundational elements and the groundwork laid for the events of ‘Youngblood.’
Combat and Strategy: Refining the Art of Warfare
The combat in “Youngblood” maintains the series’ signature intensity but introduces nuanced mechanics that require strategic thinking. Players must adapt to different enemy types, each with unique weaknesses, demanding a more thoughtful approach to combat. The varied arsenal in the game encourages experimentation, allowing players to tailor their playstyle to the challenges at hand. This strategic layer, coupled with the fast-paced action, creates a gameplay experience that is both familiar and innovative.
Co-op Play: A Shared Battlefield
Perhaps the most significant evolution in “Youngblood” is the emphasis on cooperative gameplay. Teaming up with a friend or AI partner adds a tactical dimension to the game, transforming battles into collaborative efforts. This feature enhances the gameplay and ties in beautifully with the narrative theme of camaraderie and family bonds. The shared experience of overcoming obstacles and progressing through the story fosters a sense of unity and achievement.
Technical Elements: Crafting a Dystopian World
The technical prowess of “Wolfenstein: Youngblood” is evident in its detailed environments and atmospheric sound design. The game captures the essence of a dystopian 1980s Paris, with each district offering its unique aesthetic and challenges. The sound design, including voice acting and environmental sounds, further immerses players in this oppressive world.
Exploring the Level Design and Environment
“Wolfenstein: Youngblood” ventures into new territories with its level design, adopting a semi-open world structure. This approach, diverging from the series’ traditional linear progression, offers players a sense of exploration and discovery. The districts of Paris, each distinct in aesthetic and challenge, become playgrounds where strategy and action collide. However, this shift has its drawbacks. The repetitive nature of enemy respawns and revisiting familiar locations can sometimes detract from the freshness of exploration.
The Duality of Innovation and Fidelity
“Youngblood” walks a fine line between innovation and fidelity to its roots. The introduction of RPG elements, a cooperative play mode, and a semi-open world are bold moves that refresh the gameplay experience. Yet, these innovations occasionally clash with the essence of what many fans adore about the series – its straightforward, adrenaline-fueled action. This duality is a recurring theme throughout the game, presenting a unique blend of old and new, familiar and uncharted.
Artistic Expression: Graphics and Sound
The artistic elements of “Wolfenstein: Youngblood” are noteworthy. The game’s visual fidelity is impressive, capturing the bleak yet resilient spirit of 1980s Paris under Nazi occupation. The attention to detail in environments, character models, and lighting contributes significantly to the immersive experience. Complementing the visuals is the game’s sound design, which is both impactful and nuanced, adding layers of depth to the narrative and gameplay.
Final Bullets
“Wolfenstein: Youngblood” is a game that builds on its predecessors‘ legacy while introducing new elements. The game features twin protagonists, adding a fresh storyline dynamic. Additionally, the gameplay innovations bring a new flavor to the series, although some players may only enjoy some of the changes. Overall, the game successfully upholds the series’ legacy and opens up new possibilities for future evolution.
Buy Wolfenstein: Youngblood at:
- Bethesda.net: Wolfenstein: Youngblood – Bethesda.net
- PlayStation Store: Wolfenstein: Youngblood – PlayStation Store
- Nintendo eShop: Wolfenstein: Youngblood – Nintendo eShop
- Steam: Wolfenstein: Youngblood on Steam
- Epic Games Store: Wolfenstein: Youngblood – Epic Games Store
- Xbox Store: Wolfenstein: Youngblood – Xbox Store
