Robocop: Rogue City, a first-person shooter game set in the Robocop universe, has made a strong impact since its release on November 2, 2023. Available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, the game immerses players in the world of Robocop with its faithful adaptation and nostalgic charm.
From the moment the shoot-out at the TV station begins, players can instantly feel like the iconic cyborg law enforcement officer. The game captures the essence of the Robocop character, from the familiar Auto-9 weapon to the clunky movement and gory combat. While Robocop: Rogue City falls short in some areas, it remains an ambitious and enjoyable experience.
However, the game does suffer from numerous bugs and technical issues. Players may encounter instances where they have to restart at a checkpoint due to blocked progression or untranslated assets. Despite these setbacks, the bugs do not significantly hinder the overall enjoyment of the game.
For those unfamiliar with Robocop, the game provides a dystopian vision of the future, set in Detroit in the year 2043. The city is under the control of corporatism, with the police force privatized and Robocop serving as the ultimate law enforcement machine. While the game may not capture the biting satire of the original films, it successfully portrays a world plagued by corporate greed and the militarization of the police.
The storyline of Robocop: Rogue City takes place between the second and third films of the trilogy, providing a better conclusion than the actual third movie. The narrative is intriguing and keeps players engaged throughout the game. Peter Welling, who played Robocop in the films, lends his likeness and voice to the character, adding to the authenticity of the game.
One of the standout moments in the game is a shootout at an arms fair. This sequence showcases the game’s strengths, with destructible environments, powerful weaponry, and intense combat. Outside of combat, players can engage in investigations and explore downtown Detroit, although these sections become less frequent as the game progresses.
Combat in Robocop: Rogue City offers a distinct feel, with players embodying the unstoppable power of Robocop. Despite the slow movement speed, players can easily navigate through enemies, who pose minimal threat due to Robocop’s resilience. As the game progresses, players will face tougher opponents, including heavily armed gangs, mercenaries, and robots. However, the power curve is well-balanced, ensuring that players never feel overwhelmed.
The iconic Auto-9 sidearm plays a significant role in the game, with a complex upgrade system allowing players to enhance its capabilities. Additionally, various weapons from the Robocop series make appearances, further adding to the nostalgia. The game features an RPG-lite skill system, providing percentage-based stat increases and powerful abilities. Players can tailor their Robocop character to their preferred playstyle.
Robocop: Rogue City excels in capturing the authentic Robocop experience. The game’s aesthetics, from the gritty visuals to the iconic Robocop-vision, contribute to the immersive atmosphere. It is evident that the game was developed by passionate fans, as it includes fan-service moments and pays homage to the franchise.
Despite its low-budget nature, Robocop: Rogue City manages to deliver an enjoyable experience. Flashes of brilliance shine through, demonstrating the potential for greatness with more polish. The game embodies the spirit of Robocop, with its shiny exterior and mechanically sound gameplay, complemented by a human element that elevates the overall experience.
Ultimately, Robocop: Rogue City stands as a faithful adaptation of the beloved franchise, offering fans a chance to embody the iconic cyborg law enforcer and engage in thrilling battles.
