While a lot of today’s first-person shooters have quite the kick to them, some nostalgia-based ones are looking for something a bit…more Bond-like. And by that, I mean along the lines of Goldeneye 007. Now, we did get that particular release on Nintendo Switch Online and Xbox Series S/X a while back. But it’s great to see an indie dev try their hand at the formula – like Replicant D6 is doing with Agent 64: Spies Never Die.
If the name sounds familiar, it’s because the demo for this game was actually introduced back in 2021, with an impressive tech display similar to the classic shooters. But it hasn’t been seen since, with the dev likely working on its progress. Well, it’s come a long way, as the final release is set for August 11 on Steam. (No word on consoles yet, but Replicant is a small developer.)
You can actually check out three level of the demo now over on Steam, giving you a taste of the mechanics and presentation in store with this title. So how’s it fare? Let’s take a look-see!
That Old Bond Feeling Is Present In Agent 64
Starting right off into the first level with your secret agent (NOT named Bond), you’ll get a feel for the controls right away. Movement is incredibly fluid, and, for that matter, so is gun movement. You’ll get the hang of the momentum behind your character with each turn. In fact, it lends a lot to the game – speed-runners will no doubt do backflips over this one.
As for the shooting, it’s spot on. It feels so much like Goldeneye I feel like giving Ken Lobb a call to see if he consulted on the project. It’s nice, smooth movement throughout, and switching weapons is as easy as hitting a button.
What I really like, though, is the aiming system. You automatically target an enemy with your gun, which means you can fire while keeping up to speed. But you can also hold a secondary button for manual aim, like in Goldeneye. This is useful for precision shooting, such as blasting locks off a door or, hey, going for head shots.
You can also pick up additional weapons and blast away at things in the level. Heck, everything explodes brilliantly. Who knew that a shelving unit had such explosiveness to it? That’s just part of the fun.
The game’s three demo levels are for single player only. But the final release next month will come with co-op support across the campaign, along with variations of local and online multiplayer. That’s a terrific feat for such a small dev, and we’re enthusiastic about how the final release will hold up.
Does Agent 64’s Presentation Hold Up So Far?
We talked about the controls. But now let’s get into the presentation.
I’m happy to report that the frame rate in Agent 64 is very smooth. The game runs at a fluid 60 FPS through the demo, and that’s on Steam Deck as well. (The game will likely be confirmed Verified upon publication, though I will ask the developer.) The level size is just right as well, with multiple floors, lots of room to run around and, of course, things that blow up with a few shots. I also love the character death animations, reminding me a great deal about Goldeneye.
As for sound, it’s got some 90s style rock music playing in the back of each stage. It may not be as iconic as the classic Goldeneye soundtrack, but it’s definitely inspired by it. The sound effects are good stuff too, including enemy groans as you hit them (they seem so calm!) and lots of combat FX.
If You Like Perfect Dark or Goldeneye, Enlist Agent 64
We’ll hold final judgement for this game when it releases next month. There’s a lot we haven’t checked out yet, and who knows what the full release will hold. But the Steam demo definitely delivers some great expectations, especially for those who grew up with an N64 in your home. Chances are you’re going to be very busy next month.
We’ll revisit for a review when we get a chance!
Need more old-school shooting goodness? Check out our review of Wizordum!
