Review: RoboCop: Rogue City Delivers a Nostalgic and Action-Packed Experience
I have fond memories of watching Paul Verhoeven’s RoboCop as a child, even though it was probably not the most appropriate movie for someone my age. But that film, along with many others I watched growing up, sparked a love for cinema in me. So, when I heard that developer Teyon was working on RoboCop: Rogue City, I was excited to see if it could capture the same magic as Verhoeven’s vision.
One of the first things that impressed me about RoboCop: Rogue City is that it stays true to its source material. The game understands what made the RoboCop series work and brings it to life. From the gritty streets of Old Detroit to the aesthetic inspired by 80s futurism, the game immerses you in a world reminiscent of the films.
The storyline of RoboCop: Rogue City is filled with intrigue and mystery. As the titular character, RoboCop, you must keep the streets of Old Detroit safe from harm and uncover the secrets lurking beneath the city’s surface. The narrative takes you on a rollercoaster of twists and turns, keeping you engaged and invested in the story.
What makes the game truly remarkable is its ability to balance campy humor with a genuinely compelling storyline. It seamlessly shifts between light-hearted moments and near-psychological thriller elements, never breaking your immersion in the world of RoboCop.
The attention to detail in RoboCop: Rogue City is also impressive. The game oozes movie influences, from the rundown police station to the familiar setting of Old Detroit. The visuals, powered by the Unreal Engine, bring the dystopian world to life in a visually captivating yet gritty way. It’s a world that reminds me of Deus Ex and fills a void we’ve been missing.
A major highlight of the game is the return of Peter Weller as the voice of RoboCop. While his voice may be slightly less robotic than in the films, he captures the essence of a RoboCop several years removed from his transformation into a cyborg. Nancy Allen may not reprise her role as Officer Lewis, but the soundalike performance is stellar and adds authenticity to the experience.
Another standout feature is the dialogue system, which allows your choices to have a tangible impact on the people and situations around you. It’s not just about exchanging words; your decisions matter and can shape the outcome of the game. This adds an extra layer of depth and replayability to RoboCop: Rogue City.
In terms of gameplay, RoboCop: Rogue City is a straightforward first-person shooter. You aim, shoot, and watch the bad guys explode in a shower of sparks and gore. It’s gloriously over-the-top, just like the movies. The game offers a variety of weapons to choose from, adding a welcome change and increasing the level of excitement.
Of course, the game wouldn’t be complete without RoboCop’s iconic Auto-9 machine pistol. The attention to detail in sound design, taken directly from the films, is a testament to Teyon’s dedication. Unleashing the Auto-9 on your targets is as satisfying as it sounds.
Dead or alive, you’re coming with me.
RoboCop’s internal struggle, his constant battle to find the line between man and machine, is a compelling thematic thread in RoboCop: Rogue City. While it mainly exists in dialogues and cutscenes, I would have liked to see it have more of an impact on gameplay. Still, the focus on RoboCop’s unique attributes, such as his ability to shrug off bullets and tear through enemies, is spot-on.
The open-level system in the game is also worth mentioning. The ability to explore Old Detroit adds depth to the world-building, and the side missions keep you engaged and entertained. While there are linear missions that move the story forward, the freedom to roam around and discover new locations is a significant plus.
RoboCop also features a skill tree that adds depth to his character. The available skills, such as combat, vitality, deduction, and psychology, are well-crafted and make you feel like you’re progressing. The abilities you unlock, like a dash or the ability to open safes without a code, are resourceful and logical additions.
In conclusion,
RoboCop: Rogue City is a delightful blend of nostalgia, action, and engaging storytelling. It faithfully captures the essence of the RoboCop series and offers a fun and action-packed experience. While it may have some minor flaws, it’s a must-play for both franchise fans and gamers looking for an immersive and enjoyable game. Teyon has once again proven their prowess in creating enjoyable spinoffs of beloved classics. So, whether you’re a die-hard RoboCop fan or new to the world of Old Detroit, this game is well worth your time and attention.