Unexpected Tactics and Feathered Frenzy in Steam's Weirdest Shooter

You know those games where the difference comes from something utterly absurd? That’s what drew me to the latest Steam Next Fest demo that everyone’s buzzing about. At its core, this is a third-person shooter that shares similarities with hardcore extraction shooters like Escape from Tarkov. But there’s a twist that immediately changes the entire experience: you’re not an elite operator, you’re a duck. And honestly? That’s just the beginning of this game’s unapologetically weird personality.

Entering a match for the first time, the entire premise is almost disarming. The intensity of traditional shooters is here—you still scavenge, manage resources, and watch out for threats around every corner. Weapons range from shotguns to sniper rifles, all hilariously sized to fit your feathered character. The map’s full of abandoned structures and lurking hazards. Despite the oddball visuals, the tension is real, and the stakes feel surprisingly high for such a whimsical setup.

Where things really start to diverge from formula is in the mechanics. Apart from the shooting and looting you’d expect, there are unique duck-specific abilities that you must master to survive and come out ahead. You'll find yourself paddling through murky ponds, bobbing your head to peek above grass, and using water to escape danger. The mechanics are quirky but add a clever layer that keeps veterans and newcomers guessing at every moment.

Some might expect the wackiness to override any strategic play, but the game’s structure encourages thoughtful planning. Choices like which pond to dive into or when to expose yourself for a wider view carry genuine tactical weight. It strikes a rare balance—being just absurd enough to make you laugh without sacrificing the need for quick thinking and careful moves.

So, if you’re looking for a refreshing experience that stands out in a crowded genre, this is a must-try. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of tactical shooters or just up for something offbeat, the appeal is impossible to deny. With its mix of humor, tension, and originality, this duck-themed shooter is shaping up to be an unexpected highlight of Steam Next Fest and a great talking point among friends long after the demo’s over.