Released on October 21, 2025, for PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, Painkiller is a modern reboot of the cult-classic FPS series, developed by Anshar Studios in partnership with 3D Realms. The title shifts the original’s solo “boomer shooter” formula into a heavy emphasis on co-op and raid-based missions, adding load-out customisation, tarot-style buffs, and roguelike arena modes.
What Works
1. Solid technical baseline & co-op fun
Players and reviewers note that on PC at least, the game runs smoothly and with few major bugs—something quite rare these days. When the action is flowing—weapon blasting, demon hordes, and cooperative chaos—the core idea lands. As one preview put it, “it’s a very solid shooter… action-packed gorefest.”
2. Atmosphere and presentation have merit
Though the narrative and characters don’t reach great depths, the gothic-horror settings, heavy metal soundtrack, and demon-slaughter tone are well executed. The environments—from cathedral ruins to sand-soaked deserts—offer variation.
3. Customisation and session structure
The game introduces loadout choices, tarot cards for temporary buffs, and a “Rogue Angel” mode of randomized arenas—letting you jump in, blast demons, and extract or complete a short mission (~9 levels in the main campaign).
Where It Stumbles
1. identity & nostalgia gap
A recurring criticism is that the reboot doesn’t capture the unique spirit of the original 2004 Painkiller. The shift to co-op, more modern shooter tropes, and weaker narrative means longtime fans feel something essential is missing. According to one aggregated review: “It’s ‘Painkiller’ in name only … a generic over-the-counter co-op relief.”
2. Gameplay depth & progression shortcomings
While the action is enjoyable, many reviewers point out that the gameplay loop wears thin quickly. Gun feel is sometimes lacking impact, movement can feel floaty, and the progression doesn’t offer strong rewards or long-term hooks. For example, one review rated the gameplay 6/10 due to generic mechanics.
3. Short length & little narrative payoff
The campaign consists of just nine levels split into three chapters and ends abruptly. The story is minimal, character work is weak, and the ending lacks resolution. Several reviews highlight that it “ends on a low note”.
4. Mixed user reception & value concerns
On Steam the game currently holds a “Mixed” user rating (≈ 55% positive with ~479 reviews) as of writing. Some players feel the $39.99 launch price (or region equivalent) comes with less content or freshness than expected.
Overall Verdict
Painkiller (2025) is good, but not great. It delivers fun co-op demon-slaughter, respectable technical execution, and solid presentation—but it fails to fully justify its reboot identity or create a strong overarching experience.
If you’re new to the franchise or just looking for a fun, session-based co-op shooter to blast demons with friends, you’ll likely find value here. However, if you loved the 2004 original for its distinct tone and solo-focused mayhem, you may feel this version falls short of the legacy.
Quick Pros & Cons
Pros:
Smooth performance and co-op functionality
Strong gothic/horror aesthetic and metal-soundtrack vibe
Customisation (tarot cards, loadouts) adds replay value
Cons:
Lacks strong identity compared to the original
Short campaign and weak narrative
Progression and gunfeel feel average, not exceptional
User reviews and value perception are mixed