Review: Real Heroes: Firefighter HD on PlayStation 5

Real Heroes: Firefighter has just completed its exciting transition to the PlayStation 5, bringing along some impressive enhancements. Our Real Heroes: Firefighter HD review dives into the details!

Ziggurat Interactive, who had earlier rolled out this game for the PlayStation 4 in a format that closely resembled the original Nintendo Wii experience, has stepped up the game with a PlayStation 5 port. This new version not only offers stunning 4K visuals but also brilliantly utilizes the DualSense’s haptic feedback. Players step into the boots of a rookie firefighter cadet in Los Angeles, tasked with learning the ropes quickly. It’s a high-stakes role where you’ll need to save both the people caught in the fiery situations and your fellow team members. Bringing the narrative to life are voices from talent like James Marsters (Buffy: The Vampire Slayer), Jack McGee (Rescue Me), Michael Jace (The Shield), Jamie Kennedy (Ghost Whisperer), and Jenette Goldstein (Aliens).

When it comes to gameplay, Real Heroes: Firefighter HD offers an immersive first-person perspective. You’ll navigate your character with the left analog stick, while aiming and looking around is managed with the right analog stick. Need to move quickly? Hold down the L2 button to run, but keep in mind that you can’t wield your tools while sprinting. Interactions with objects are handled via the x button, and to tackle flames, grab a fire extinguisher and use the R2 button for a burst of relief.

Switching tools on the fly? The D-Pad has you covered. Encounter a jammed door? Equip the axe to chop it down, and feel free to use it on other obstacles. Some doors will challenge you to employ the halligan tool, which is also handy for prying open stubborn objects.

Your trusty hose will be crucial for combating fires, and switching to the fog nozzle, managed by pressing in the right analog stick, lets you tackle blazes up close. Pay attention to the hose icon—when it blinks, you’re nearing the end of your line. Stepping out of range means you’ll need to source a new hose or revert to your other tools. This makes deploying your fire extinguisher a strategic decision, particularly if you’re aiming for the game’s Platinum trophy. More trophy details later!

In smoke-heavy areas, crouching becomes your best friend to prevent running out of air. Hit the left analog stick to crouch. Close to a firefighter or civilian? A prompt will appear indicating you can call out to them with the Square button. If they’re unable to walk, you’ll need to carry them to safety, but doing so leaves your hands full, limiting your ability to use tools.

Among the variety of tools at your disposal, the hydraulic spreader stands out. It helps pry open car doors in rescue situations. Align it using the X button, and work its jaws with the R2 button. Don’t forget to close it with the L2 button for reuse. Another noteworthy tool is the rotary saw, a heavy-duty piece of equipment for cutting through walls when needed. Control it with the left and right analog sticks and initiate cutting by holding R2. Training will incorporate tutorials on utilizing these tools effectively.

On the trophy front, Real Heroes: Firefighter HD offers a lineup that mirrors its predecessor’s. This includes the coveted Platinum trophy. You’ll find a mix of 10 Bronze, 9 Silver, and 6 Gold trophies. Tasks involve finishing the tutorial, completing each level, conquering the game on various difficulty settings, obtaining special equipment, and uncovering hidden fire cause determination medals across the game’s levels.

Real Heroes: Firefighter leaps onto the PS5 with these polished enhancements. The game, previously akin to its Nintendo Wii roots on PS4, now offers a fresh 4K experience backed by DualSense feedback. Stepping into the shoes of a new firefighting recruit in Los Angeles, players embark on a mission to save lives amidst raging fires, including their own team. The voice cast features notable actors including James Marsters, Jack McGee, Michael Jace, Jamie Kennedy, and Jenette Goldstein. Available for $14.99 on PlayStation 5, the PS4 version, Real Heroes: Firefighter, can also be purchased separately at the same price.

Disclaimer: This Real Heroes: Firefighter HD review is based on a PlayStation 5 copy provided by Ziggurat Interactive.