A pretty fun wave shooter that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Guns, grenades, and a whole lot of enemies.

This and more, is what Operations Serpens – created by VRKiwi – is offering PlayStation VR2 (PSVR2) gamers when it releases Feb. 23.

Originally launched for Quest headsets in 2020, the arcade styled wave shooter is set to make its debut on the next gen PlayStation headset, bringing a fast-paced and hilarious game that feels like a breath of fresh air.

This year kicked off with launches of some much-hyped games like Vertigo 2 (Jan. 15) and Bulletstorm VR (Jan. 18). However, both failed to meet expectations – despite lengthy delays – launching with massive bugs, graphics issues, and other problems that left a bad taste in the mouth of PSVR2 users.

While some other releases thus far have not held up, if you’re looking for a game that’s fun, engaging, and is launching without bugs – Operation Serpens may be the game for you.

Firstly, the game does not look bad, not by a long shot.

If you’re expecting a realistic look akin to a game like Red Matter 2, you should probably tamper your hopes. However, putting on the headset is like stepping into a classic game – or like Crisis Brigade if you were playing as a military commando rather than SWAT member.

Character modelling is very minimal here. The faces of your enemies, and even comrades when you see them is as simple as can be, but keeping in line with the games from which this was inspired, it absolutely works.

The rest of the world looks pretty great too, as you’re thrown into combat across many environments including an apartment complex, office, a mall, and more.

The game drops you into a world that is probably riffing off G.I. Joe (your enemy are called the Snakes after all), as you’re thrown into a wave shooter with seven story levels – where your movement ability is limited as you fight to overcome dozens of enemies and eventually a boss.

In addition to the fast action of the campaign, players also have the option to play modes with more freedom of movement, including a multiplayer mode to team up with three others, or even prove you have what it takes to survive the zombie apocalypse and go up against a horde.

As you work to take down the evil Snakes organization – or survive the zombies – the game offers up a multitude of gun options such as pistols, automatic rifles, shotguns and even snipers with scopes. There’s no manual/realistic reloading here, with guns needing to be dropped to your side – or pressing the ‘x’ button to reload.

You can also get flashbangs (which help by slowing down time) and grenades for a more explosive option.

Each weapon feels pretty great as you clear each level of enemies, however, adaptive triggers are not implemented here, which is really just the tiniest of letdowns.

Haptics are implemented here when you fire your guns and while they’re not strong, you do get to feel your shots.

While we’re talking about shooting the baddies, one of the best things about the game is landing a headshot. Who doesn’t like knowing that your aim was true enough to take down your foe in one shot?

Well, the development team makes it even more satisfying for players here with the hilarious headshot animation of  heads popping off like something out of a classic cartoon.

This game may be heavy on fast-paced guns, but it’s definitely something younger kids can play as the humour replaces any potential gore.

Playing through each of the seven main levels will see you go up against hundreds of enemies, and it’s a heart-pumping experience every minute. You need to play smart as you’re not only limited in your movement and places to hide, but some of your guns will “break” as you progress through the level – making you play smarter as you hope to survive.

Once you hop over to modes like multiplayer or even zombies, your ability to run around is increased, but the gameplay is much the same.

Overall, Operation Serpens is a surprisingly fun game that does not take itself too seriously.

You’re given a wealth of content in this military styled game, and while wave shooters are not always the most fun to play, the nostalgia of a classic cabinet shooter – combined with a load of different guns – makes this game worthwhile.

If you’re looking for something to remove the potential stink that emanated when you overspent on the steaming pile that was Bulletstorm VR, it may help to clear the air with the quirky and shockingly fun Operation Serpens.

This game releases in February 2024 as of the time of writing.

Operation Serpens was reviewed after receiving an advanced copy from the development team.