Xbox One: Killer Instinct Review Round-up

Despite being a "free-to-play" title (sort of) for Xbox One, Killer Instinct is easily one of the system's most anticipated games. Free to download, Killer Instinct will offer all Xbox One players the ability to play as Jago, one of six characters in the game. If you choose to purchase more characters you can do so individually for $4.99 each, or as a bundle for $19.99 (a more expensive Killer Instinct Ultra Bundle is available for $39.99 and includes tons of goodies). But before you go decided to purchase all these characters, let's first see how the game is being received by various reviewers around the web.

IGN – 8.4/10

"Not only is its combat system flashy and well thought out, it's well explained too, thanks to its powerful training tools, and what is easily the most complete guide to terminology and tactics ever assembled in a fighting game. Though it lacks an arcade mode or a full-sized character roster, Killer Instinct delivers where it counts."

OXM – 7.5/10

"It's just a shame that Killer Instinct feels incomplete, even if it's by design. Microsoft is gambling that the spread-out release approach will only fuel continued excitement and interest in the game, and we're hoping that bet pays off big — no doubt, it's made us anxious for more. Killer Instinct is back, and maybe this time next year, we can add "and better than ever" to that statement."

EDGE – 7/10

"Fighting games live or die online nowadays, but Killer Instinct’s business model dictates that Jago will be your most frequent opponent. Double Helix intends to rotate which fighter is offered for free, but that will only go so far with so slender a roster. There’s a fantastic combo system at Killer Instinct’s core, but right now it feels like half a game – one full of promise, certainly, but not an especially next-gen one either. The cascade of particles may not be enough to retain player interest until the rest of the game arrives."

USGamer – 4/5

"Killer Instinct may seem little light with only six characters at launch, no lobbies for online play, and no Story mode until March, but the fighting mechanics are top notch. You can't argue with how easy the game is to pick up and play, and you'll have a ton of fun in the process. This is easily one of the best Xbox One launch title."

Joystiq – 3/5

"As much as Killer Instinct is a sound and inviting fighter mid-battle, it's an experience that ultimately feels hollow everywhere else. Online play – as spare as it is – may present a limitless well of competition to draw from, but with only six fighters to master and very few modes of play, Killer Instinct lacks the value and staying power offered by most other modern fighting games.

With more characters and content on the way, the future might be different. At present, there just isn't enough to do."

The Escapist – 3.5/5

"Killer Instinct is definitely fun, if a bit lacking in depth. The lack of campaign mode and limited character options mean it won't take long for you to breeze through the entirety of the content offering, but the online versus should ensure that you get plenty of enjoyment for your investment."

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With absolutely not barrier for entry, Killer Instinct seems like a title worth checking out on Xbox One. Download the game, play a few rounds as Jago, and if you decide you like it, go ahead and buy some more characters.

Do you plan on downloading Killer Instinct at launch?