Rough Justice: ’84 is a captivating video game that delivers an intricate mix of strategy, management, and narrative elements. Set in the gritty and neon-lit world of 1984, the game puts players in the shoes of a private detective agency manager, tasked with solving crimes, managing resources, and navigating the morally ambiguous landscape of the era.
Publisher: Daedalic Entertainment
Developer: Gamma Minus
Release Date: 20 December 2023
Thanks to Publisher for the review code.
Gameplay and Mechanics
The core gameplay of Rough Justice: ’84 revolves around managing a team of private detectives, each with their unique skills and backgrounds. Players must assign these detectives to various cases, balancing their strengths and weaknesses to solve a diverse array of crimes. The game excels in its strategic depth, requiring players to think critically about resource allocation, time management, and decision-making. The mechanics of interviewing suspects, gathering evidence, and drawing conclusions are both engaging and challenging, providing a satisfying detective experience.
One of the game’s highlights is its case system, which ranges from simple thefts to complex murder investigations. Each case is well-crafted, with multiple outcomes based on the player’s decisions and investigative skills. This variability adds significant replay value to the game, as players can experience different storylines and outcomes in subsequent playthroughs
Graphics and Art Style
Rough Justice: ’84 boasts a visually striking art style that perfectly captures the essence of the 1980s. The game’s graphics are a blend of retro and modern aesthetics, with neon lights, vintage cars, and period-appropriate fashion. The character designs are diverse and well-detailed, reflecting the various personalities and backgrounds of the detectives and NPCs.
The user interface is intuitive and stylish, featuring elements reminiscent of classic detective movies. The attention to detail in the environment and character animations adds depth to the game world, making it immersive and believable.
Sound and Music
The soundtrack of Rough Justice: ’84 is a standout feature. It features a mix of synthwave and electronic tracks that perfectly complement the game’s setting. The music sets the tone for the various scenes, from tense investigations to moments of reflection. The sound effects are also noteworthy, with realistic ambient noises that enhance the game’s atmosphere.
Voice acting in the game is generally strong, with each character having a distinct voice that fits their personality. The dialogue is well-written, with a mix of humor and seriousness that keeps the narrative engaging.
Story and Characters
The narrative of Rough Justice: ’84 is one of its strongest points. The game tells a compelling story of crime and morality, with a cast of well-developed characters. Players will find themselves invested in the lives of their detectives, each of whom has their backstory and motivations. The game touches on themes like justice, corruption, and the grey areas of morality, making players ponder their decisions and their consequences.
The interaction between characters is a crucial part of the game, influencing the storyline and the player’s experience. Choices made during conversations can open up new paths or close others, adding a significant depth to the narrative.
Replayability and Content
Rough Justice: ’84 offers substantial replayability, thanks to its branching storylines and multiple case outcomes. Players can explore different strategies and choices in subsequent playthroughs, uncovering new aspects of the story and characters. Additionally, the game’s difficulty settings and optional challenges provide extra layers of challenge for those seeking a more intense experience.
Final Thoughts
Rough Justice: ’84 is an exceptional game that masterfully blends strategy, detective work, and narrative storytelling. Its captivating art style, engaging gameplay mechanics, and immersive story make it a standout title in the strategy genre. With its deep replayability and compelling content, it is a game that will keep players engaged for hours on end. Whether you are a fan of detective stories, strategy games, or just looking for a unique gaming experience, Rough Justice: ’84 is a title worth checking out.
