It has been years since players last stepped into the infected world of Dying Light 2: Stay Human. That sequel delivered fast-paced action but also drew criticism for bloated mechanics and endless faction drama.
Now, Techland has returned with Dying Light: The Beast, the newest entry in the franchise. Released on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Series S, the game costs $59.99. While it brings back the bloody parkour combat that defined the series, it also leans heavily on familiar formulas, leaving fans divided.
The story once again follows Kyle Crane, who now faces the sinister Baron after brutal experiments turn his hybrid DNA into both a weapon and a curse. Set in Castor Woods near the Swiss Alps, the world is rich with forests, villages, and abandoned resorts. Despite the detail, exploration often boils down to repetitive busywork, showing Techland struggling to move past old habits.
Combat remains the strongest aspect. The melee system is brutal and satisfying, letting players smash through zombies with pipes, hammers, or knives. Crane’s transformation into the beast adds even more chaotic power. Firearms are present but secondary, as melee action and RPG-style progression remain central.
Co-op once again proves to be the highlight. Up to four players can join forces, making boss fights smoother and exploration livelier. However, the lack of crossplay limits the experience for friends on different platforms.
Parkour, once a standout feature, takes a step back. The Beast relies more on flat terrain and vehicles, with limited rooftop chases. A grappling hook later improves movement, but many fans may feel the thrill of freerunning has been reduced.
On the technical side, the game performs well. Unlike its predecessor, it launched with strong optimisation and stable frame rates on modern hardware.
With around 20 hours of story content and plenty of optional missions, The Beast offers value. Yet it often plays too safe, relying on old habits rather than bold innovation. While entertaining, it suggests the series is still holding back from reaching its full potential.
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