Cybercorp is an ambitious cyberpunk action RPG that thrusts players into a dystopian future where corporations have seized control of society. Developed by a relatively small studio, the game has made waves for its bold narrative choices, immersive world-building, and fast-paced combat. However, while Cybercorp aims high, it doesn’t always hit the mark, leaving a mixed impression on those who venture into its neon-lit streets.
Publisher:Â Megame
Developer: Megame
Release Date:Â 20 August 2024
CPU:Â Intel Core i5 / AMD Equivalent
GPU:Â Geforce GTX 1060 / AMD Equivalent
RAM:Â 8 GB
HDD:Â 10 GB
Review code was provided for coverage.
A World of Neon and Shadows
One of Cybercorp‘s standout features is its world design. The game is set in a sprawling metropolis, dripping with the quintessential cyberpunk aesthetic. The city is alive with towering skyscrapers, neon signs, and rain-soaked streets that reflect a society in decay. The attention to detail in the environment is impressive, from the grimy alleyways filled with destitute citizens to the sleek corporate headquarters that tower above them.
However, while the world is visually captivating, it often feels hollow. NPCs lack the depth and interactivity that would make the city feel truly alive. Many of them are static, offering little more than a few lines of dialogue or repetitive tasks. This can make the world feel more like a backdrop than a living, breathing entity, which is disappointing given the game’s focus on narrative immersion.
Narrative Depth with Mixed Execution
At the heart of Cybercorp is its story, which tackles themes of corporate greed, human augmentation, and the erosion of personal freedom. Players take on the role of a corporate enforcer, tasked with maintaining order in a society teetering on the brink of collapse. The game does an admirable job of exploring the moral complexities of its world, offering players choices that can lead to multiple outcomes.
The narrative is bolstered by strong voice acting and well-written dialogue. Characters are often morally ambiguous, forcing players to question their own motivations and the consequences of their actions. However, the story sometimes stumbles due to pacing issues. Key plot points can feel rushed, while some side quests drag on without adding much to the overall narrative. This uneven pacing can lead to moments where the story loses momentum, making it harder for players to stay engaged.
Combat: Fast, Fluid, and Flawed
Cybercorp features a combat system that is both a highlight and a point of contention. The game offers a mix of melee and ranged combat, with players able to augment their character with a variety of cybernetic enhancements. Combat is fast-paced and fluid, with a range of abilities and weapons that allow for creative playstyles.
However, the combat system is not without its flaws. The AI can be inconsistent, with enemies sometimes displaying sharp tactics and at other times acting erratically. Additionally, the game’s difficulty curve can be steep, especially in the early stages, where players may find themselves overwhelmed by powerful foes before they have fully grasped the combat mechanics. This can lead to frustration, particularly for those who are new to the genre.
Technical Performance and Polish
One area where Cybercorp falters is in its technical performance. The game is plagued by bugs and glitches that can detract from the overall experience. These range from minor visual bugs, like clipping issues and texture pop-ins, to more serious problems, such as crashes and game-breaking bugs that force players to reload previous saves. While the developers have been active in releasing patches, the game still lacks the level of polish that one would expect from a title of this scope.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Cybercorp is a game that dares to tackle big ideas within the cyberpunk genre but doesn’t always succeed in executing them flawlessly. Its world is visually stunning, and its narrative offers moments of genuine depth and moral complexity. However, the game is held back by technical issues, uneven pacing, and a world that feels more static than alive. For fans of the genre, Cybercorp is worth exploring, especially if you’re drawn to its themes and aesthetic. But be prepared to overlook some rough edges in the process.
Ultimately, Cybercorp is a testament to the challenges and rewards of ambitious game development. It may not be a flawless experience, but it’s a bold step into a dark and intriguing future.