Redacted, a newly released game for the PlayStation 5, serves as an unexpected spinoff to the well-known 2022 game The Callisto Protocol. Unlike its predecessor, which leaned heavily into survival horror, Redacted introduces a fast-paced, twin-stick shooter experience infused with roguelike elements. This review delves into its gameplay mechanics, visuals, and overall entertainment value, highlighting what makes it a notable addition to the gaming landscape.
Set against the grim backdrop of Black Iron prison located on Jupiter’s moon, Callisto, Redacted puts players in the boots of a prison guard. This character is caught in a desperate situation—not only trying to find the last escape pod to safety but also battling against a growing threat. The inmates are rapidly transforming into terrifying creatures known as Biophages, adding a layer of urgency and horror to the gameplay.
Redacted’s core gameplay loop takes inspiration from other celebrated roguelikes, specifically Hades. Players engage in dynamic combat scenarios that involve shooting, knifing, kicking, sliding, and dashing. Each action is designed to feel fluid and responsive, which is crucial as you navigate through waves of mutated inmates. The unique aspect of the gameplay involves room-to-room progression where after clearing a room, players choose from several power-ups. These enhancements are crucial as they can significantly alter your abilities by adding effects such as freezing, burning, electrifying, or poisoning enemies.
The progression through the prison is marked by symbols above each door, guiding the player towards their next challenge. This introduces a strategic element as players must decide the best path to take in order to survive and advance. Adding to the competitive nature of the game, the Rival system is a standout feature. It incorporates a timer and progress bar at the bottom of the screen that tracks how well the player is doing compared to unseen rivals. These rivals push the player to be faster and more efficient in navigating through the prison as both seek the elusive escape pod.
Redacted also includes various button combo abilities that can be used to slow down or deal additional damage to rivals when you encounter them, introducing a layer of tactical depth to the otherwise frantic combat. After conquering each floor’s challenges, players face a boss that significantly tests their skills and strategies. Failure here is costly, as it sends players back to the hub where the journey began.
The hub serves as a marketplace and upgrading zone where players can spend the currency earned during runs to buy new guns, melee weapons, armor, and skills. This system of upgrades and unlocks plays a key role in player progression and adds a satisfying sense of improvement and customization to each run.
Visually, Redacted strikes a different tone from The Callisto Protocol, opting for a vibrant comic book style that suits its faster-paced gameplay while maintaining a nod to its creepy, space-horror roots. The use of comic strip cutscenes to provide backstory and detail rival encounters is both engaging and stylistically fitting, elevating the game’s presentation.
In conclusion, Redacted offers an enjoyable blend of roguelike mechanics with intense action and strategic gameplay that will likely appeal to both fans of The Callisto Protocol and newcomers looking for a challenging and stylish shooter. The game’s mixture of competitive elements, vibrant aesthetics, and constant need for strategic thinking makes each 20-30 minute run both refreshing and compelling. While it may not reach the heights of being the greatest in its genre, largely due to some areas like its melee combat needing refinement, Redacted stands as a commendable spinoff that expands its universe in a gameplay-rich and engaging way.
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