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Hunt: Showdown cover art

Hunt: Showdown

Best if you want a high-stakes PvPvE shooter where every decision matters and death carries real consequences—tense, methodical gunplay in atmospheric Louisiana swamps where other players are as dangerous as the monsters.

Released
February 22, 2018
Metacritic
79
View reviews
Genre
SHOOTER
User Rating
3.9

Why We Recommend This Game

Hunt: Showdown delivers one of the most nerve-wracking multiplayer experiences available, blending extraction shooter mechanics with horror atmosphere and old-west gunfights. Each match drops you into a Louisiana bayou map where you're simultaneously hunting supernatural bosses and competing against other player teams who want the same bounty. The tension is constant: every gunshot reveals your position, every creaky floorboard could give you away, and every encounter could end your hunter's life permanently. The permanent death system creates genuine stakes. When your hunter dies, you lose that character and all their equipped gear. Only your account-level progression (Bloodline) persists, meaning each life feels precious in a way few games achieve. This transforms Hunt into a game of calculated risk-taking—do you push for the bounty and paint a target on your back, or do you play as a spoiler and ambush whoever claims it? The gameplay loop rewards patience and audio awareness over twitch reflexes. Weapons are slow, deliberate period firearms that require careful aim and positioning. You'll spend matches moving cautiously through compounds, using your limited "Dark Sight" ability to track targets while listening intently for other teams. Combat is brutal and quick when it erupts, but the lead-up involves careful stalking and tactical positioning. Expect a steep learning curve spanning dozens of hours. You'll need to learn map layouts, enemy AI patterns, weapon handling, sound cues, and the metagame of when to fight versus when to extract. Early matches can feel punishing as veteran players outmaneuver you, and the game does little hand-holding. Sessions typically run 30-60 minutes per match, though you can extract early if you want shorter play windows. The progression system keeps you invested even through deaths. Money earned buys new hunters and gear, while experience unlocks better equipment and tools. The loop of dying, learning, and coming back slightly better equipped provides strong long-term hooks. Playing with friends in duos or trios significantly smooths the learning process and enhances the tactical depth, though solo play is viable for masochists who enjoy being outnumbered.

Best For

  • Players who thrive on high-stakes tension and meaningful consequences
  • Tactical shooter fans who value positioning and sound design over twitch reflexes
  • Those seeking a distinctive PvPvE experience with strong gothic horror atmosphere

Not For

  • Players who get frustrated by losing progress or gear to permanent death
  • Those seeking casual, low-pressure multiplayer sessions
  • Anyone unwilling to invest significant time learning complex maps and mechanics

Multiplayer & Game Modes

12 online • Partial Crossplay

Hunt: Showdown has partial crossplay support, supports up to 12 players online.

Features

Crossplay(Partial Crossplay)
Online Multiplayer

Play Modes

Single PlayerMultiplayerCo-opPvPOnline Multiplayer

Player Count

Online
1-12
Team Sizes
Solo/Duo/Trio (up to 12 players)

Additional Details

Online-only matchmaking extraction shooter. Bounty Hunt supports up to 12 players per match (solo/duo/trio matchmaking; teams up to 3). Soul Survivor is a solo mode (up to 12). No split-screen, no LAN. Cross-play matchmaking is supported between PlayStation and Xbox consoles (not with PC). Console online play requires platform subscription (PlayStation Plus / Xbox Game Pass Core).

Edition and Platform Information

Important details about which version to buy and where to play.

Platform Recommendations

Console versions have smaller player counts per match and slightly adjusted UI for controller play. PC offers the most active player base and precise aiming, though crossplay options vary by platform.

Accessibility Features

Heavily reliant on 3D audio cues for competitive play, which may disadvantage players with hearing impairments. No offline or bot practice modes. The permadeath system and lack of difficulty scaling create inherent accessibility barriers for some players.

Screenshots

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this game answered by our team.

How hard is the learning curve?

Steep and unforgiving. Expect 20-40 hours before you feel competent. Map knowledge, sound recognition, and weapon handling all require significant practice. Playing with experienced friends helps tremendously.

Can I play solo or do I need a team?

You can play solo, but you'll face teams of 2-3 players with only slight matchmaking adjustments. Most players find duos or trios more enjoyable and forgiving during the learning phase.

How long are typical sessions?

Individual matches run 30-60 minutes if you pursue bounties fully, though you can extract earlier. Budget 2-3 hours for satisfying play sessions where you can complete multiple hunts.

What happens when I die?

Your hunter and all equipped gear are lost permanently. Your account progression (Bloodline rank and money banked) persists, letting you recruit new hunters and buy equipment for another attempt.

Is it beginner-friendly?

No. Hunt offers minimal tutorials and throws you into matches with veterans immediately. The permadeath system punishes mistakes harshly. It rewards persistence but has little patience for casual dabbling.