Videogames - Robocop: Rogue City - A Surprisingly Gritty and Authentic Homage

By Mulder, 31 october 2023

Robocop: Rogue City is an exhilarating and nostalgic return to the gritty and dystopian world of Alex Murphy, also known as Robocop. Developed by Teyon and published by Nacon, this first-person shooter has been creating quite a buzz in the gaming community, and after delving into a preview of the game, it's clear that this title offers a refreshing and unexpected delight. It doesn't just rely on the familiarity of the Robocop franchise; it introduces a unique and immersive experience that stays true to the essence of the original films.

The game is cleverly situated in a bleak and crime-ridden Detroit, effectively capturing the spirit of the city as portrayed in the films. The narrative unfolds between the events of Robocop 2 and Robocop 3, providing a fresh storyline that complements the cinematic universe. It introduces a new villain and a series of enigmatic crimes plaguing the city while Robocop attempts to unveil the truth behind a sinister project known as After Life. This approach keeps fans engaged with a familiar character while also offering a new and compelling storyline.

One of the game's most remarkable aspects is its commitment to recreating the retro-futuristic style of the original films. The developers have painstakingly recreated the atmosphere, capturing the essence of the '80s and '90s cyberpunk aesthetic with remarkable accuracy. Notably, Peter Weller, the original actor who portrayed Robocop, lends his voice and likeness to the character, adding an extra layer of authenticity and nostalgia to the game.

The gameplay in Rogue City is a bold artistic choice that pays off. Unlike many fast-moving, agile protagonists in modern shooters, Robocop is portrayed as a slow and methodical enforcer of the law. This approach may not cater to every gamer's preferences, as it forces players to embrace the character's inherent limitations. Still, it's a decision that adds depth and uniqueness to the gameplay. As Robocop, you become a powerhouse capable of withstanding a barrage of bullets while dishing out your own brand of justice.

The combat in Rogue City is a significant highlight, offering a sense of power and over-the-top violence that mirrors the films. Robocop's iconic Auto 9 Beretta is at your disposal, and you can also pick up and use weapons dropped by enemies. This results in a visceral experience with gruesome dismemberment, satisfying gunplay, and an overall sense of overwhelming force. The game doesn't shy away from gore, and the violence is unapologetically intense, successfully recreating the brutal action from the movies.

In addition to the thrilling combat sequences, Rogue City provides moments of investigation and interaction. These segments allow you to explore the city as both a law enforcer and a detective, creating a balanced experience that pays homage to the original source material. What sets this game apart is its decision-making aspect, involving moral choices that directly impact your public trust score, adding depth to the narrative and making your actions matter.

The world-building in Rogue City is nothing short of impressive. Detroit feels like a city in distress, with its gritty streets, run-down buildings, and an array of colorful characters that enrich the game's atmosphere. The game's choice system, which reflects Robocop's internal struggle between his human and robotic sides, is skillfully implemented. Your decisions have real consequences, and they significantly impact the story, adding layers of depth to the narrative.

While Rogue City shows promise with its ambitious premise, the challenge factor in the early stages of the game might leave some players wanting more. Robocop's ability to mow down enemies with ease might feel a bit underwhelming at first. However, it's our hope that the game introduces more formidable foes and varied challenges as the story progresses, keeping the gameplay engaging and the excitement alive.

Robocop: Rogue City holds the potential to be a faithful and satisfying gaming experience for fans of the franchise. The demo has successfully showcased its commitment to replicating the exaggerated badassery and rich thematic elements of the original films. The gameplay is both unique and enjoyable, offering a fresh take on the character. However, it remains to be seen whether the game can maintain this early promise in terms of longevity and variety.

Scheduled for release in November 2 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series, Robocop: Rogue City is shaping up to be a worthy addition to the Robocop legacy. This game has the potential to become a hidden gem for fans of this iconic franchise, offering a unique and enjoyable gameplay experience while respecting the source material. 

RoboCop: Rogue City
Developer : Teyon
Publisher : Nacon
Director : Piotr Latocha
Engine : Unreal Engine 5
Platforms : Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
Release : 2 November 2023

Note : 3.5/5