A High-Powered Prequel to Chaos

Returning to the roots of high-octane carnage, Serious Sam 4 serves as a massive, high-powered prequel to the events seen in Serious Sam 3. Developed by Croteam, this installment scales up the series' signature chaos to unprecedented levels, placing players right in the middle of a global catastrophe. As humanity faces an all-out siege from Mental’s invading forces, the last line of defense rests with the Earth Defense Force, led by the legendary Sam “Serious” Stone and his squad of misfit command and commando specialists.

The game's setting takes us to a world ravaged by invasion, beginning with a massive portal opening in Tunguska, Russia. The narrative follows Sam as he travels to Rome to rendezvous with a priest who holds secrets regarding the Holy Grail—a powerful alien artifact believed to be a potential weapon against the invaders. While the story is primarily delivered through cutscenes and dialogue, it maintains the series' signature blend of action and humor.

Unstoppable Arsenal vs. Unimaginable Hordes

At its core, Serious Sam 4 utilizes the classic, revamped formula that fans have loved for decades. The gameplay mechanics demand intense movement; players must master the art of circle-strafing and backpedal-blasting to survive impossible situations created by overwhelming enemy numbers. Whether you are navigating large environments or tight corridors, the sheer volume of foes requires constant vigilance and rapid reflexes.

The game features an explosive arsenal designed to handle any threat. Players can choose from a variety of devastating tools, including:

  • Classic Favorites: The iconic cannon, the punishing minigun, and the powerful double-barreled shotgun.
  • New Additions: A brand new auto shotgun and the chainsaw launcher.
  • High-Tech Upgrades: The visually stunning lock-on rocket launcher and the devastatingly lethal laser beam of death.

Iconic Enemies and New Threats

The invasion brings back the most legendary members of Mental’s horde, ensuring that veteran players feel right at home. Prepare to face off against the Headless Kamikaze, Beheaded Rocketeer, Kleer, Scrapjack, Werebull, and Khnum. However, the invasion isn't just composed of old faces; new reinforcements have arrived to bolster the alien ranks, including the frantic Processed, the repulsive Belcher, and the hard-hitting Zealot.

Key Features and Gameplay Modes

  • 4-Player Online Co-op: Smash through the campaign alongside friends in a cooperative mode that amplifies the mayhem.
  • Intense Combat Loops: Navigate primary missions and thrilling side quests while managing massive waves of enemies.
  • Digital Deluxe Content: The Digital Deluxe Edition offers an expanded experience, including the exclusive Classic Tommy Gun skin, a digital art book featuring concept art and model renders, and the original game soundtrack.

Who Is This Game For?

Serious Sam 4 is a perfect match for fans of the classic first-person shooter genre who crave "bullet hell" style combat and massive scale. If you enjoy high-speed movement, overwhelming enemy counts, and a heavy dose of action-movie bravado, this title delivers a concentrated dose of adrenaline. It also appeals to players looking for cooperative experiences where teamwork and firepower are the only ways to survive the onslaught.

Platform Availability

Originally released in September 2020 for PC (and Stadia), Serious Sam 4 expanded its reach in December 2021, making the carnage available on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series systems.