Overview
In this match, I played as the Xenomorph Queen on the newly reintroduced Hawkins map, which returned after Behavior reacquired the Stranger Things license. While the map’s atmosphere is nostalgic, its gameplay balance leaves much to be desired. The abundance of double pallets makes it frustrating to play as a killer, as survivors can easily loop and stall for time. I only picked the Xenomorph to complete a ritual requiring tail attack hits, but the process was anything but smooth. The turrets survivors place are a constant nuisance, and the lack of nearby hooks made it nearly impossible to secure downs. Overall, the experience was a reminder that Hawkins still needs a rework to be a fair and enjoyable map for both sides.
Detailed Thoughts
Alright, here we go. I’m on the newly reintroduced Hawkins map, and guess what? The Xenomorph Queen is in play. Apparently, Behavior managed to reacquire the Stranger Things license, so we get to experience this map again. It’s a cool addition, but I have to be honest — it’s not the most balanced map out there. It’s got issues for both sides, killer and survivor alike.
One of the biggest problems is the abundance of double pallets. It’s a nightmare for killers because survivors can just keep running loops, dropping pallets left and right. It’s frustrating, to say the least. I’m not even a big fan of playing as the Xenomorph. I only pick her when I have to complete a daily ritual or a tome challenge. This time, I’m here because I’ve got a ritual that requires me to hit survivors with the tail attack a certain number of times. So, here I am, putting up with it.
The Xenomorph’s gameplay isn’t exactly fun for me. Those turrets that survivors can set up? Yeah, they’re a real pain. On top of that, I’m dealing with the classic killer frustration — hooks that are way too far apart. I down a survivor, look for a hook, and surprise, there’s none nearby. I check the other stairwell, hoping for a hook there, but no luck. It’s moments like these that make you want to throw your controller.
But I’m not giving up. I’m committed to getting this ritual done, even if I have to suffer through the tail attack requirement. I spot a survivor and manage to get a hit with the tail. Feels good, but I know I have to do it a few more times. The chases on this map are long and drawn out, thanks to all the pallets, and I’m constantly zig-zagging to avoid getting stunned. It’s exhausting.
At one point, I down a survivor again and try to haul them to a hook, but the lack of nearby hooks strikes once more. It’s maddening. I’m forced to drop them and look for another opportunity, knowing full well they’ll probably crawl away and get back up thanks to their teammates. Every second counts, and this map just makes it harder. I’m over here playing “find the hook” instead of “play the game.”
The survivors are sticking together, healing each other up, and staying just out of reach. Their teamwork is tight, and the turrets they keep placing make it even harder to navigate. Those turrets are one of the most annoying mechanics of playing as the Xenomorph. They slow me down, ping my location, and give the survivors way too much intel.
By the end of the match, I’m left thinking about how much this map needs a rework. If Behavior really wants Hawkins to be a permanent part of the game, they should seriously consider addressing the map balance. Too many pallets, bad hook placement, and all-around frustrating for killers. It’s a shame because I love the aesthetic and atmosphere of the Hawkins map. It’s just not fun to play when everything feels stacked against you.
At least I got a few tail hits in for the ritual. Small victories, I guess.
