HAWKED stands out as a free-to-play online extraction shooter that blends adventure elements with competitive multiplayer action. Players take on the role of treasure-hunting Renegades exploring the mysterious X-Isle, a dynamic environment filled with ancient ruins, dense jungles, and hidden dangers. The core experience revolves around scavenging for weapons, battling foes, and extracting valuable Artifacts while contending with other players. With the Master of Realities Expansion Pass, the game expands into new dimensions, introducing corrupted weapons and artifacts that enhance loadouts for tackling unfamiliar threats.
Gameplay
In HAWKED, the gameplay centers on a high-stakes extraction loop where you drop into X-Isle to hunt for treasures. You scavenge guns, ammo, and gear scattered across the map, then engage in combat against AI-controlled Disciples or rival Renegades. Puzzle-solving plays a key role, as deciphering ancient mechanisms often leads to powerful Artifacts that you extract and upgrade for new abilities. Movement feels fluid, with options to traverse varied terrain, and combat mixes shooting with strategic use of mods and class cards that alter playstyles. The Master of Realities Expansion Pass adds layers by unlocking corrupted weapons like the Zed 92 AR and Duonic SMG, alongside artifacts such as Powerglass and Death Grip, which introduce fresh tactics against new enemy types.
Mechanics emphasize risk and reward; dying means losing your haul unless you extract successfully. Reputation systems tie into character interactions, where building standing unlocks rewards like additional gear or customizations. Factions influence encounters, with base game Disciples providing PvE challenges, while the expansion brings in Corrupted and VEKTR groups featuring unique abilities and mobs. This setup encourages teamwork in co-op scenarios, balancing exploration, combat, and looting in sessions that can last from quick runs to extended hunts.
Game Modes
HAWKED offers a mix of PvP and PvE modes tailored for solo players or teams. The primary mode involves extraction hunts on X-Isle, where up to three players team up to compete against others for artifacts. Wonder Rush stands out as a duo PvP mode focused on dynamic treasure hunting, emphasizing fast-paced clashes and strategic extractions. The game also includes co-op expeditions, expanded in the Master of Realities Expansion Pass with two new ones set in VEKTR and Corrupted Realities, designed for cooperative play against environmental hazards and enemy waves.
These modes support cross-platform play across PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One, allowing flexible squad formations. While the base game leans toward competitive extractions, the expansion shifts some focus to cooperative adventures, providing variety for those who prefer less direct confrontation.
Expansions and Updates
The Master of Realities Expansion Pass, released in late 2024, builds on the base game by unlocking access to new realities and content. It includes bonus items like the Muldoon shotgun and Satyr AR, plus masterwork artifacts such as Heartseal Charm. Players gain entry to new factions, additional artifacts for treasure hunting, and improved loadouts with more weapons, mods, and class cards. Updates have continued into 2025, with Issue #3: Worlds Beyond introducing these elements as part of an evolving season structure.
However, the game's current state as of early 2026 includes an announcement of impending shutdown, set soon after March 2026. Prior updates, like shop rotations and new passes, have aimed to refresh content, but the focus has shifted toward PvE experiences in recent times.
Is It Worth Playing?
For fans of extraction shooters with a mix of co-op and PvP, HAWKED provides a solid foundation, especially if you enjoy puzzle-infused looting and team-based tactics. The free-to-play model makes it accessible, with the expansion pass adding meaningful depth through new enemies and gear for those willing to invest. Player feedback highlights interesting mechanics but notes mixed feelings on updates, pointing to areas like polish that could improve the experience.
Given the announced shutdown in the near future, it's best suited for quick sessions or completing existing content before servers close. If you thrive in dynamic, loot-driven multiplayer settings and can overlook some rough edges, it offers worthwhile runs, particularly in co-op with friends. Solo players might find the PvE elements engaging, but the game's longevity is limited at this stage.
