[REDACTED]

Release Date: October 28, 2024

Action, science fiction, roguelike, isometric view, RPG elements, singleplayer

7.6

OpenCritic

86%

Steam

Rate It!

A roguelike bullet-hell shooter with an isometric view, made by the authors of The Callisto Protocol and set in the same sci-fi universe. In [REDACTED] we play as a guard of the moon prison. Our main goal is to reach the escape pod and we must deal with hostile people, zombies, aliens and robots along the way.

Story
Gameplay
Engine and graphics

[REDACTED] is the second project of Striking Distance studio after The Callisto Protocol. It is set in the same science fiction universe, but realized on a much smaller scale and representing a different genre. The game combines features of a twin-stick shooter with roguelike gameplay and hack'n'slash elements.

Story

The action of [REDACTED] takes us to the icy moon of Jupiter called Callisto, where the modern prison Black Iron is located, known from the game The Callisto Protocol. Due to the plague carried by the prisoners, chaos broke out in the facility. As a guard, we try to get to the last escape pod and leave this place.

Gameplay

The aim of the game is to escape from prison, which is hindered by mutants, robots, zombies, as well as hostile people. Other survivors also plan to reach the escape pod. We need to swiftly go through rooms and clear them of enemies using a variety of weapons - from a whip and baton to a pistol and cannon.

We also fight with our opponents remotely, slowing down their progress by turning the prison's security measures against them. For this purpose, we plan which of the rivals to attack, which tool to choose and at what time. Neglecting our competitors will lead to a final battle with each of them.

Given that [REDACTED] is a roguelike title, we often have to start the game from scratch, each time embodying a different guardian. With each approach, we collect currency to purchase weapons, suits, and upgrades. We also acquire information about our opponents, and eventually we fight our previous character (with the same equipment) who was turned into a zombie.

All of our actions are accompanied by a narrator.

Engine and graphics

[REDACTED] was created on the Unreal engine. It is characterized by comic-style graphics using cel-shading technique.

Videos and Screens

[1:09] [REDACTED] - Launch Trailer

7.6

OpenCritic Rating

Game is Recomended by 63% of Critics. There are 20 Critic Reviews.

OpenCritic

Thumb Culture: 5 / 5

In all honesty, [REDACTED] has really surprised me. I was incredibly sad after finishing Callisto Protocol, whereby I was left wanting more of the carefully and beautifully crafted world. [REDACTED] turned that sadness into room by room run addiction. I never knew I needed to return to the Black Iron Prison in a completely different way than first intended. With everything Striking Distance Studios have brought forward this time round, [REDACTED] has made it’s mark and sits in my top games for 2024. I SALUTE YOU SOLDIER! I award [REDACTED] the Thumb Culture Platinum Award.

Full Review

TheSixthAxis: 8 / 10 by Adrian Burrows

Redacted ain't no lazy Hades clone, instead it offers an experience that is unique amongst the crowded Roguelike genre. Put up with the steep difficulty and slow progress and you'll experience an immensely enjoyable game, one that is cram-packed with slick combat and brilliant characters.

Full Review

Saving Content: 4 / 5 by Scott Ellison II

While being in a penitentiary is no easy task, being in one overrun by zombies and others trying to escape makes it even harder. Striking Distance Studios really knocked it out of the park with this one. [REDACTED] is a challenging and rewarding roguelike experience, where the tight gameplay loop, engaging combat, and oppressive atmosphere will keep you hooked for hours on end. [REDACTED] was a total surprise, but comes packing with deep systems, and a delightful arsenal to help fight your way to freedom that I have to expose.

Full Review

86%

STEAM Score

All Reviews: Very Positive (248)

STEAM

User Reviews Summary generated by AI

The main pros of the game

Fast-Paced Gameplay: Many users appreciate the frenetic pace and the unique mechanic of racing against other survivors, adding an exciting layer to the roguelike experience.
Variety of Loadouts: Players enjoy the numerous weapons and playstyles available, making each run feel distinct and engaging.
Challenging and Fun: The game is described as challenging, with satisfying combat mechanics that keep players engaged.
Humor and Voice Lines: Some players find the comedic tone and character voice lines entertaining, adding a lighthearted touch to the gameplay.
Replayability: The randomized elements and different challenges contribute to a high replay value, with many players finding it enjoyable to play repeatedly.

The main cons of the game

Difficulty Scaling: Users note that the game becomes increasingly difficult without player choice, leading to frustration as enemies grow stronger while players feel less powerful.
Time Pressure: The enforced time limit creates a sense of urgency that may not appeal to all players, especially those who prefer a more leisurely gaming experience.
Limited Storytelling: The game lacks depth in narrative and character development compared to other roguelikes, like Hades, which may disappoint players looking for a strong story.
Repetitive Elements: Some users mention that the biomes and bosses can feel repetitive over time, reducing the game's long-term appeal.
Technical Issues: A few players report crashes and performance problems, making the game unplayable for them.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

Player Choice in Difficulty: Users express a desire for options to adjust the difficulty or to play at a consistent level without increasing challenge.
Depth in Mechanics: Critics mention a lack of variety in the boon system, such as no duo boons or prerequisites for certain abilities, which could add more strategy to the gameplay.
Improved Melee Combat: Some players feel that melee weapons are underwhelming compared to ranged options, suggesting a need for better balance in weapon effectiveness.
Narrative Depth: There is a call for more storytelling elements and character development to enhance the overall experience and engagement with the game world.

Summary

Overall, while [REDACTED] has its strengths in gameplay and fun mechanics, it also faces criticism regarding its difficulty scaling, narrative depth, and some technical issues, which could affect player satisfaction in the long run.

Summary generated on: January 6, 2025