Ever since the extraction shooter genre caught fire, we’ve been seeing a variety of derivative titles. Among them, the newly released 'Escape from Duckov' on the 16th has managed to climb to 3rd place on the global Steam top-selling charts, charming players with its adorable duck protagonist and a refreshing lack of PvP-induced anxiety.

While most extraction shooters, including Escape from Tarkov, stick to the standard FPS-based PvPvE formula, Escape from Duckov opts for a PvE-focused, isometric extraction shooter experience. It isn't an online game, yet the core loop—scouring maps, hoarding loot, taking down enemies, and making a mad dash for the exit—remains familiar. It shares some DNA with the 2024 2D hit 'Zero Sievert', offering an arsenal of over 50 weapon types ranging from humble clubs to rifles and shotguns.

You start by choosing one of five zones to raid for supplies, often picking up quests from various NPCs along the way. You’ll need to keep a keen eye on the day-night cycle, as time is of the essence; failing to extract before the clock runs out is a recipe for disaster. Once you successfully exfiltrate, you can sell your haul or put those resources to use at various workstations. Crafting more powerful gear from blueprints or pumping points into your skill tree to level up your character is all part of the charm.

The reception for Escape from Duckov on Steam has been 'Very Positive' (932 participants, 94% positive). Players are praising the genre-twist that removes the stress of fighting other humans. The cartoonish, duck-themed aesthetic, adjustable difficulty settings, and the satisfying progression of upgrading your hideout have also hit the mark. That said, some players are lamenting the lack of multiplayer support, and there’s a general consensus that the optimization could use a bit of a polish.