Set in post-apocalyptic Norway, Vigor is an engaging, free-to-play online action and multiplayer shooter game that will surely test your mettle. In it, you are thrust into the aftermath of a devastating nuclear war. You play as a nameless Outlander, joining others in a relentless struggle for survival in the rugged, resource-scarce environment.

In Vigor, your endurance hinges on scavenging, crafting, and battling against fellow Outlanders who are just as desperate to secure the resources necessary. Playable solo or with others, the game offers modes like Shootout, Elimination, and Encounter. It’s similar to titles like Rust and DMZ.

Worth the risks

Survival in Vigor demands a willingness to take risks. The barren landscapes of post-war Norway are peppered with abandoned locations, each potentially holding valuable resources, whether it’s food, weapons, or building material. However, venturing out to gather these resources is fraught with danger. Encountering other players is inevitable, and each skirmish brings the risk of losing everything you’ve worked hard to collect, as you lose all weapons and loot if you die.

With eight-12 players on each small map, every encounter outside your base is a potential battlefield. The game’s design encourages both aggressive and stealthy playstyles, as you can engage enemies head-on, but the noise from your firearms will likely attract more attention and escalate the confrontations. Alternatively, you can adopt a stealthier approach, avoiding unnecessary conflicts and focusing on gathering resources quietly.

As you gather resources, you can enhance your shelter, adding amenities like a garden and an electric generator. These upgrades not only improve your quality of life but also provide essential resources, reducing your reliance on external scavenging missions. Eventually, a well-upgraded shelter can sustain you, allowing you to focus on helping others by donating surplus supplies. However, the game’s Early Access mode doesn’t allow teaming up with friends yet.

The Turmoil Update 23.0

The game's latest Turmoil Update 23.0 introduces a new Battle Pass season, bringing fresh challenges and rewards. Players can now join the Unexploded Missile Loot Event in Encounters and experience a new visual effect for the Radiation wave. The new Impact Grenade adds a quick-strike option, while regular Carnage Events will shake up Shootout with themed weapons and player challenges.

The crafting system has undergone a significant makeover, making it more streamlined and accessible, with the addition of bulk crafting options. The update also brings new Seasonal Challenges, an Annihilator Premium Pack, and various quality-of-life improvements. Visuals for the throwable arcs are also enhanced, along with numerous bug fixes for a smoother and more engaging experience in the Outlands.

A more intimate survival game

As a multiplayer survival shooter, Vigor lacks the grand scale that most games in the genre have — and that’s actually a good thing. The small pool of players for every encounter and the temptation to risk yourself for the thought of more rewards make for much tension in every match. All in all, Vigor is an interesting title to try if you like this genre of gaming.