As you read this, we are already ten days into 2026. This year is shaping up to be just as intense for the gaming industry as the last, with a packed lineup of releases right from the start. Console exclusives have become a major focus for gamers today, especially since most titles now launch across all platforms.
Today marks the release of a new PlayStation exclusive: Code Violet. It was anticipated as a potential spiritual successor to Dino Crisis, but unfortunately, it only 'almost' hit the mark. Critics who got their hands on it are now saying the same thing—that it’s dull and uninspiring. Let’s dive into the details of what went wrong
Let’s get to know Code Violet. The game is a Third-Person Action Horror set in the 25th century, an era where a global catastrophe has rendered Earth uninhabitable. Humanity’s final survivors have fled to the planet Trappist 1-E, but they now face extinction due to widespread infertility.
In a dark and desperate bid to save the human race, the Aion colony utilizes advanced time-travel technology to abduct women from the past to serve as surrogates. However, this mission hides a terrifying conspiracy. You play as Violet Sinclair, a young woman ripped from her own time. You wake up within Aion’s bio-engineering facility—a place now overrun by ferocious prehistoric dinosaurs and hostile forces. You must uncover the truth and survive the nightmare
"That is the brief premise, and based on the trailers, it heavily echoes the vibe of Dino Crisis. However, Code Violet ultimately feels like a disjointed experience that misses the mark. It has been slammed with negative reviews from major outlets like PushSquare and IGN, with the latter stating, 'The game is ambitious, but ultimately falls flat.' Other critics pointed out the 'atrocious third-person shooting mechanics, tedious level design, and a sea of technical glitches.'
The game received a dismal 4/10 from both outlets. What fueled the backlash even further is its status as the first PlayStation exclusive of 2026. Although PlayStation wasn't directly involved in its development, the fact that it’s their first exclusive title of the year—combined with its attempt to emulate the Dino Crisis formula—has led many in the media to mockingly call it a failed debut
As for why Code Violet is a PlayStation exclusive, the developers claimed they didn't want to see their protagonist, Violet, subjected to 18+ mods. Apparently, they failed to realize that modders typically only target popular games that actually capture the market's interest. Many now speculate that it’s only a matter of time before the team 'eats their words' and brings the game to PC For those still curious enough to try Code Violet, it is available now on PlayStation 5. But fair warning: you'll soon realize that going back to play Dino Crisis 2 on the original PlayStation 1 is far more enjoyable than playing this
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