System Shock Review (PS5)
System Shock PS5: Retro Gem or Dated Drag?
The remake of the 30-year-old game System Shock has been released on PS5, offering a nostalgic experience for fans of immersive sims. Despite its visual enhancements and the addition of modern gameplay elements, the game still shows signs of its age, particularly in its challenging puzzles and combat mechanics. The game's design encourages exploration and problem-solving, but can sometimes feel unrewarding and tedious, especially with its inventory management system.
What specific elements of the System Shock remake have been modernized by Nightdive Studios?
Nightdive Studios has modernized several elements of the System Shock remake to enhance its appeal to both new and returning players. Firstly, the visual presentation has received a significant overhaul. The game now sports a blended art style that combines modern and retro aesthetics, which not only respects the original design but also updates it with a more contemporary look25. This includes a hard-edged metallic design across rooms and corridors, along with vibrant colors that add freshness to each game floor5.
In terms of gameplay, the remake maintains the challenging nature of the original but updates certain mechanics to improve player experience. The combat system and enemy variety have been refreshed, introducing new types of adversaries and better weapons, although the combat dynamics have been noted as lacking the impact and dynamism of more modern titles6.
Additionally, the remake includes a grindy recycling system, a feature that seems to nod towards modern gameplay loops but has received mixed feedback regarding its execution. Inventory management has also been adapted for modern platforms, though it has been pointed out that it works better with a mouse and keyboard setup than with a console controller6.
Overall, these updates by Nightdive Studios aim to preserve the essence of the original System Shock while providing a visually and mechanically modernized version for today's gaming audience.
Can you describe the challenges players face with the combat system and space station puzzles in the System Shock remake?
In the System Shock remake, players face challenges with both the combat system and the space station puzzles. The combat system is not highly polished and can feel lacking in weight and dynamism. Melee weapons lack impact, guns lack oomph, and with minimal cover available, players often find themselves trading shots with enemies that hardly miss. Additionally, the respawn system can make combat encounters less tense, as any damage dealt and enemies killed carry over upon respawning.
On the other hand, the space station puzzles test players' problem-solving skills. The game does not provide much assistance, and players must sift through text and audio logs to find codes and piece together the puzzle of the station's AI takeover. While figuring out codes and unlocking new areas can be gratifying, some puzzles may require players to visit multiple areas across various levels of the station, and the game will not store the codes for you, so physically noting them down is necessary.
In summary, the challenges players face in the System Shock remake include a somewhat clunky combat system and intricate space station puzzles that require a keen eye for detail and strong problem-solving skills.