Better Than Dead

Bodycam
Gameplay
Plot and inspiration from the films of John Woo

Monte Gallo is an independent developer who took his first steps in the video game industry, creating a colorful FPS. Forza Polpo!, because this is the game in question, allowed him to gain wind in his sails and prepare a more serious project of a larger caliber. We're talking about Better Than Dead, a shooter inspired by so-called bodycam footage and John Woo films.

Bodycam

In Better Than Dead we watch the action from a first-person perspective (FPP). However, we observe the events not from the protagonist's eyes, but through the lens of the aforementioned video recorder strapped to her clothing at about chest height. This allows us, among other things, to aim our weapons regardless of where we are looking at any given moment. In addition, the impression of interacting with authentic footage is enhanced by the "pixelated" faces of the characters, as well as the "fisheye" effect superimposed on the image.

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Gameplay

The gameplay in Better Than Dead does not differ too much from what we are accustomed to by most representatives of the genre. In its course we travel through Hong Kong and eliminate hosts of representatives of the local underworld, rescuing other girls from their oppression, as well as watching out for civilians.

The bloody journey takes us through places such as restaurants bathed in neon light, nightclubs, dark alleys and rooftop buildings. The levels are linear and devoid of additional fillers, allowing you to focus on the action.

Plot and inspiration from the films of John Woo

The main source of inspiration for the creator of Better Than Dead was Hong Kong action cinema from the 1980s and 1990s. During the gameplay, we play the protagonist, who, after breaking out of the hands of her tormentors, returns armed with a gun and equipped with a camera. Her goal is not only to take revenge on the criminals, but also to present to the whole world how she accomplishes it.

Platforms:

PC Windows

Developer: Monte Gallo

Publisher: Monte Gallo

Similar Games:

Ready or Not

Stranglehold

Unrecord

System Requirements

System Requirements for Better Than Dead Video Game:

PC / Windows

Minimum System Requirements:
Intel Core i5-9400 / AMD Ryzen 5 2600, 16 GB RAM, graphic card 6 GB GeForce GTX 1660 Ti / 8 GB Radeon RX 590, 15 GB HDD, Windows 10 64-bit.

Recommended System Requirements:
Intel Core i7-12700 / AMD Ryzen 7 5800X, 16 GB RAM, graphic card 8 GB GeForce RTX 3070 / 16 GB Radeon RX 6800, 20 GB HDD, Windows 10/11 64-bit.

Ratings

Game Ratings for Better Than Dead Video Game.

69%

STEAM Score

All Reviews: Mixed (865)

STEAM

User Reviews Summary generated by AI

The main pros of the game

Unique Visual Style: The game features a gritty, stylized aesthetic that captures the essence of Hong Kong action films, which many players appreciate.
Engaging Gunplay: When the mechanics work as intended, the gunplay is described as satisfying and chaotic, reminiscent of classic action movies.
Atmospheric Setting: The environments are well-designed and immersive, enhancing the overall experience.
Potential for Growth: Many users see the game's potential and express hope that it will improve with future updates.
Sound Design: Some players enjoy the sound effects and music, which contribute to the game's atmosphere.

The main cons of the game

Inconsistent Gunplay: The aiming system is heavily criticized for being imprecise and frustrating, with many players feeling that shots often do not go where aimed.
Lack of Content: The game is considered short, with some players finishing it in under two hours, leading to concerns about its value for the price.
Technical Issues: Players report various bugs, including AI problems, collision issues, and audio settings that do not function properly.
Cumbersome Mechanics: The bodycam effect and the fisheye lens can cause motion sickness for some players, making the game uncomfortable to play.
Poor NPC AI: The behavior of both enemy and civilian NPCs is often described as lacking, leading to frustrating gameplay moments.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

Level Selection and Restart Options: Players express a desire for a level selection feature and a restart button to improve the gameplay experience.
More Content: Users request additional levels, weapons, and narrative elements to enhance replayability.
Improved Mechanics: Suggestions include refining the accuracy system, adding more combat mechanics (like melee options), and improving the AI behavior.
Better Gore Effects: Some players feel that the gore and blood effects do not match the game's dark themes and should be more realistic.
Narrative Context: There is a call for deeper storytelling and character development to make players care more about the narrative.

Summary

Overall, while "Better Than Dead" has a strong foundation and a unique concept, it currently suffers from various gameplay and technical issues that hinder the experience. Many players are hopeful for future updates that will address these concerns.

Summary generated on: May 22, 2026