Rating: ★★★★☆

theHunter: Call of the Wild is a unique and immersive hunting simulation video game that offers players a remarkably realistic and authentic outdoor experience. Developed by Expansive Worlds and published by Avalanche Studios, this game stands out in the hunting genre for its attention to detail, stunning visuals, and vast open-world environments.

Gameplay (4/5):
The gameplay in theHunter: Call of the Wild is undoubtedly its strongest aspect. It excels in providing a true-to-life hunting experience. You'll embark on hunting expeditions in various beautifully crafted open-world environments, each featuring different wildlife and landscapes. Whether you're tracking a majestic deer through the lush forests or stalking a waterfowl in the wetlands, the thrill of the hunt is ever-present.

The game offers a wide variety of firearms, bows, and gear to suit your hunting style, and each weapon feels distinct and realistic. Patience and skill are essential as you carefully approach your prey, taking into account factors like wind direction and animal behavior. The tracking system adds depth to the gameplay, allowing you to follow animal prints, droppings, and even calls to locate your quarry.

Graphics and Sound (4.5/5):
theHunter: Call of the Wild boasts breathtaking visuals and audio design. The environments are incredibly detailed, featuring lush forests, snowy mountains, and serene lakes that feel like they were plucked from the real world. The day-night cycle and dynamic weather system further enhance immersion.

Wildlife is meticulously animated and remarkably lifelike. The subtle rustling of leaves, chirping birds, and distant animal calls make the game world come alive. However, some occasional graphical glitches and clipping issues can momentarily break immersion.

Realism (4/5):
Realism is at the core of this game, and it shines through in many aspects. The animal behavior and AI are impressive, with creatures reacting realistically to your presence and environmental changes. However, some may find the game's realism to be a double-edged sword, as it can make for slow-paced and sometimes frustrating gameplay, especially for those new to hunting simulations.

Content and Progression (3.5/5):
theHunter: Call of the Wild offers a wide range of missions, challenges, and activities to keep you engaged. There are multiple reserve areas to explore, each with its unique set of animals and scenery. However, the progression system can be a bit grindy, requiring players to invest considerable time to unlock new weapons and gear.

Multiplayer (4/5):
The game features a cooperative multiplayer mode that allows you to team up with friends for hunting expeditions. This adds a social element to the game and can make the experience even more enjoyable.

In conclusion, theHunter: Call of the Wild is an exceptional hunting simulation game that caters to those who appreciate realism and patience in their gaming experiences. Its stunning visuals and immersive sound design truly set it apart. However, its steep learning curve and sometimes tedious progression may not appeal to everyone. If you're a hunting enthusiast or enjoy a more relaxed, immersive gaming experience, this title is worth a shot.