| Developer | Publisher | Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| ROCKFISH Games | ROCKFISH Games | Microsoft Windows-Xbox Series X/S-PlayStation 5 |
In the vast world of sci-fi space games, Everspace 2 from Rockfish Games stands out as an exceptional blend of fast-paced combat, engaging exploration, and fine RPG mechanics. This game takes a different trajectory from similar games, offering an open-world looter shooter that’s as expansive as it is engaging. Thankfully despite being a sequel, it is a standalone story and you don’t need to necessarily know what happened in the past.
Everspace 2 tells an engaging story set in a detailed and dynamic universe. You take on the role of a clone pilot striving for freedom and self-determination in a universe filled with corporate intrigue, factions, and mysteries. The narrative is not like an epic space opera. It simply unfolds through a series of missions that introduce a variety of characters, each with their unique perspectives, motivations, and dilemmas.
Dialogue is well written with stellar voice acting for an indie title. Of course, the story motivates you to continue to the end, just don’t expect a Star Trek or Mass Effect-level one. Additionally, while the main story is engaging, some side missions can feel repetitive and lack the narrative depth of the main storyline.
Everspace 2 is a delightful fusion of space combat, exploration, and RPG elements. Combats are intense and strategic, requiring players to master a variety of spacecraft types, weapons, and gadgets, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. The game’s dogfighting mechanics are smooth, creating thrilling space battles that are both challenging and rewarding.
The game controls are not customizable, but the default settings are acceptable and smooth to deal with. They are responsive and well-designed, providing a satisfying and engaging gameplay experience whether you’re navigating through asteroid fields or engaging in high-octane space battles. Exploration, on the other hand, is a significant aspect of Everspace 2. The game universe is filled with diverse star systems, each teeming with planets to investigate, resources to mine, derelict stations to loot, and hidden secrets to uncover. The sense of discovery and wonder is palpable, making exploration a joy.
Looter shooter elements are woven into the fabric of the game, with a deep enough customization and progression system that allows players to upgrade and personalize their ships. Through gathering resources and looting defeated enemies, players can acquire new weapons, equipment, and ship modules. This, combined with the game’s skill tree, allows for a good degree of character progression and customization. Of course, for some first-timers, the menus and stats can be a little overwhelming but rest assured it’s not more complex than many other similar games.
Visually, Everspace 2 is a spectacular. For an indie game, the graphics are stunning, with beautifully rendered star systems that range from vibrant nebulas to desolate asteroid fields, all set against the backdrop of the vast, star-studded cosmos. The attention to detail is impressive, from the lighting effects to the intricate designs of space stations and planets. Everspace 2 performs admirably, maintaining a smooth and consistent framerate even during intense combat scenarios.
Visually the only problem is that sadly the spaceships are not that great. They are more like toys than real ones. The sound design is acceptable too. The game’s soundtrack is fast beat, complementing the visuals perfectly and enhancing the overall experience. The sound effects of weapons, shields, and engines add a sense of authenticity and immersion to the game’s space battles.
Everspace 2 is a fantastic sequel that builds upon its predecessor’s strengths while introducing new elements that elevate it above the conventional space shooter. The game’s compelling narrative, engaging gameplay mechanics, stunning visuals, and immersive sound design create a captivating experience that will satisfy both fans of the original and newcomers to the series.
Despite some minor gripes, Everspace 2 is an exceptional game that offers a rich and satisfying sci-fi experience. Whether you’re a seasoned space explorer or a rookie pilot, Everspace 2 delivers an exciting adventure for you. The game costs 50 dollars which may seem expensive. However, it’s an actual AA game that resembles some aspects of AAA titles. Plus it is a dozens of hours journey to enjoy.
The review code was provided by the publisher
| GAMEPLAY | ART | VALUE |
|---|---|---|
| 85% | 85% | 80% |