System Shockoriginally released 30 years ago, is an undisputed milestone in the history of games. This groundbreaking title, released a year after Doom and six months after The Elder Scrolls: Arenabrought a unique dynamic to the first-person RPG genre.
Last year we reviewed the PC version of the game, which you can check out here. here. Much of what was said in that review also applies to this new version for consoles, so be sure to check it out too.
A milestone in gaming history
The impact of System Shock original is undeniable. It allowed players to interact with practically any object in the setting, introduced the possibility of moving the camera vertically and offered a complexity that was rare for the time. This remake seeks to maintain the essence that made the original game so revolutionary, but not without some challenges inherent in its aged design.
Environment and Atmosphere
Set on a space station taken over by a rebel AI called Shodan, System Shock involves the player in cramped corridors full of violent mutants and cyborgs. The structure of the game resembles a metroidvania or Resident Evilwith meticulous exploration and puzzle-solving based on information found throughout the map.
Visually, the remake is a spectacle. The blocky textures of the original are now represented by detailed, textured surfaces, maintaining authenticity while updating the aesthetic to modern standards. However, this visual density can be excessive, making it difficult to identify useful items.
Gameplay and Controls
One of the biggest challenges of this remake is adapting the controls to modern standards, especially on consoles. Although there has been a considerable improvement compared to the original PC release in terms of controller support, combat, a fundamental part of the game, often becomes a slow and difficult formality. The need for significant adjustments to the control settings, such as stick acceleration and the absence of toggle options for actions such as crouching and running, compromises the fluidity of the experience.
It's worth remembering that despite this problem, it's possible to use a mouse and keyboard to play the game on both PS5 and Xbox, which greatly improves the experience.
True to the Original, For Better or For Worse
Faithfulness to the original game is a double-edged sword. Although it retains the authenticity of the map layouts and puzzle solutions, the 1994 design feels archaic in many respects. The exploration and combat experience can be frustrating and obtuse, especially for new players who don't have the same nostalgia as veterans.
Final Thoughts
System Shock is a passionate and meticulous recreation of a classic that shaped the "Immersive Sim" genre. However, in remaining so faithful to the original, it brings with it the same obstacles that could have been overcome with a few modern considerations. The inclusion of more ammunition, modes that highlight interactive items or adjustments to the controls could have significantly improved the experience without sacrificing the essence of the game.
Despite its flaws, there is something captivating about the challenge and atmosphere of System Shock. The team at Nightdive Studios deserve praise for bringing this classic to life again, but perhaps the game needs to evolve beyond its roots to really shine on today's scene.
For dedicated fans of the original, this remake is a worthwhile nostalgia trip. For new players, it can be a difficult introduction to a gaming icon, but nevertheless a unique and influential experience.
