In the ever-expanding world of extraction shooters, few titles stand out—until now. Active Matter, developed by Matter Team and published by Gaijin Entertainment, takes the genre to extraordinary new dimensions, quite literally. This is not just another looter shooter; it's a high-stakes, physics-defying, multiverse adventure wrapped in hardcore PvPvE action.

Here’s why Active Matter might just be your next obsession.

🌌 A Multiverse That Reinvents Battlefield Dynamics

The first thing you notice in Active Matter is the setting: you're not just fighting enemies, you're surviving in unstable zones where the laws of physics are rewritten. The game's quantum anomalies—warped gravity, shifting terrain, and hallucinogenic visuals—turn every raid into a strategic puzzle. One moment you're running on a wall; the next, the ceiling becomes your escape route. It’s not a gimmick. It’s immersive, intentional, and brilliant.

Facing down a distorted PvE enemy in *Active Matter*

⚔️ PvPvE That’s Unpredictable and Ruthless

This isn’t just PvE with some random PvP encounters thrown in. Every raid feels like a psychological thriller, where you're hunted by monstrous anomalies and rival players simultaneously. Enemy NPCs behave unpredictably, creating a sense of dread with every footstep. Chaotic and varied PvE encounters interact seamlessly with PvP against other players. Add in the constant risk of losing your loot and the pressure of extraction, and you’ve got a pulse-pounding experience.

🔫 Realistic Arsenal Meets Sci-Fi Madness

Weapons in Active Matter are meticulously designed. Over 60 firearms—ranging from standard issue pistols to heavy sniper rifles—bring realistic handling and feedback. You can also craft melee weapons, throwables, and upgrade gear to suit your raid style. While anomalies bend reality, the weapon mechanics stay grounded, adding a sharp contrast that keeps gameplay balanced and satisfying. Different weapons behave very differently, and so you’re sure to find favorites among the massive arsenal. There are even vehicles!

Looting a fallen player in *Active Matter*

🧠 Tactical Depth & High Replay Value

With a mix of gravity-defying maps, raid contracts, faction-based conflicts, and emergent anomalies, no two sessions feel the same. Players can approach missions solo or in squads, utilizing vehicles, drones, and even bait strategies. Whether you're a sneaky solo looter or a coordinated team brawler, Active Matter caters to multiple playstyles.

🛠️ Early Access Polish and Player-First Design

Despite being in early access, Active Matter feels incredibly well-conceived. Frequent updates, responsive dev communication, and a growing community have already begun shaping the game’s evolution. Performance is surprisingly solid for such an ambitious project, with bugs being addressed quickly and features added based on player feedback.

🔥 Standout Features

Gravity manipulation & wall-running through anomalies
Extraction raids with PvPvE layers that build suspense
Smart loot economy that rewards risk but cushions loss
Dynamic environments—no static maps or predictable enemy spawns
Stunning visuals powered by anomaly effects and lighting design

🧩 Minor Weaknesses (That Should Be Polished Over Time)

Steep learning curve for solo players (There is a tutorial but it doesn’t explain the progression mechanics very well)
Some weapons and loadout customization still under development
Occasional visual glitches and balancing quirks (expected in early access)

Fighting off anomalous Turned Soldiers in *Active Matter*

💬 Final Verdict: 9/10 – A Must-Watch in 2025

Active Matter is an audacious entry in the extraction shooter genre—one that dares to challenge conventions and succeeds more often than not. It's tactical, atmospheric, occasionally terrifying, and full of surprises. With continued development, this title could become a cornerstone of competitive PvPvE gameplay.

If you're tired of formulaic shooters and ready for something bold, brutal, and brilliantly bizarre, Active Matter is a must-play.

Active Matter Review: A Bold Extraction Shooter That Breaks the Mold