Atlas Fallen’s combat still looks like the best part of it

fallen atlas, the new game from The Surge’s Deck13, seems to have gone unnoticed by many. Considering how cool the game looks, we thought it would show up at Summer Game Fest as part of the big show, but it didn’t create much of a buzz at Not-E3.

The good news is that Deck13 did showcasing something new for all of us who are excited to get our hands on the game: the most comprehensive look at its structure, combat, co-op, and more.

Perhaps the most characteristic thing about Atlas Fallen, outside of its sand-covered world, is the game’s combat. It all comes back to the Gauntlet, which you acquire early in the game, and it changes things forever. The Gauntlet basically turns you into a super version of yourself. It’s what allows you to run through the air and glide across the sand.

But the most interesting part is how it influences the weapons in the game, which change their form and function depending on what you want. Attacks can be customized using Essence (acquired worldwide), which is where the depth of playstyles seems to be.

There’s a particular focus on big boss fights against Wraiths, which seem to have multiple back-and-forth stages. You can target weak spots and change the pace of the fight, and it’s definitely the biggest show in the game.

When it comes to exploration, much of the ruined world of Atlas Fallen is crying out to be lifted from the sands that cover it. You get the usual assortment of things to find, like chests and upgrade materials, but there are more hidden beneath the arenas that add an interesting twist.

Atlas Fallen is a game we’ve been eyeing since last year’s gamescom, where Dom received a demo that sold him on the concept. We played it last March, and Alex was intrigued by the game’s Darksiders and Zelda influences, with a hint of Souls combat.

Atlas Fallen supports drop-in, drop-out co-op for two players, and will be available on August 10 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.