RoboCop: Rogue City – Game Review

I have been a fan of RoboCop ever since I got one of the animated tv shows on DVD. I loved it, and the idea of a cyborg cop blew my mind. Already being a big Inspector Gadget fan and RoboCop seemed to be an upgraded IG. I went and watched the reboot when it hit cinemas and liked the transformation scenes which showed Alex Murphy getting reborn as the titular RoboCop. But sadly, my hopes for a game were left to be forgotten about, until…  Mortal Kombat 11 saw RoboCop’s inclusion via DLC. Like that my hope for a proper RoboCop game ignited once again. Now finally we have a new RoboCop game- RoboCop: Rogue City.

Developer: Teyon

Publisher: Nacon

Game Series: RoboCop

Platform: Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S

Release Date: 2^nd November 2023

Age Rating: 18

Story of RoboCop: Rogue City

The game’s story follows on from RoboCop 2 (Kershner, 1990) and features detective Lewis from the movies. What the story primary explores is the failure of RoboCop. As well as the dangers a rogue unit could inflict. The player even sees this in an early mission with one of the robots defecting and killing a policeman. RoboCop is tasked with providing the people who want him decommissioned proof that he helps keep the public safe rather than harm them.

Analysis of RoboCop: Rogue City

The player’s movement was the first thing I had to adjust to when playing RoboCop, but once I had it provided a new fresh take on a very exhausted FPS genre. The voice acting was enthralling even if there were some issues with character models’ mouths not syncing with the dialogue correctly, but these had seemingly been corrected. I haven’t encountered any in a while.

Another area which could have maybe used more development is the other weapons available to Robo. With most being guns dropped by criminals they come in the form of generic FPS weapons such as the Uzi and AK. This does add a greater reliance to Robo’s iconic Auto 9, but it does feel a little limiting when we’re all used to having a grand arsenal of weapons at our disposal in FPS games. This is faithful to the games but wasn’t the most entertaining of features.

The morality system of the game is split into two conflicting paths, serving the people, and following the law. With multiple instances within missions, side missions, and just walking about, you will find yourself tasked with ethical decisions often. Sometimes it’s not always clear which option to follow, as following the law can sometimes lead to cruel and unjust punishments. It really shows the divide of Rogue City and how there is now middle ground. You either get extremely punished or are let go, which is a problem in itself for the city. As this wouldn’t allow anyone to actually face just punishment and reform, something that Rogue City’s criminals seem to be set against.

Game World and Length

RoboCop: Rogue City is a little on the short side for its £45 price tag, with the story being able to be finished in a mere 8 ½ hours. With people 100% it in 17 hours. With this in mind going in I choose to savour the side missions, the amazing sound design, and the world at large. I don’t regret it, slowing down my usually rushed (at least for reviews) play style I managed to immerse myself in the world presented by the game. I really did find myself getting lost in Rogue City and the problems the officers faced. From collecting a deceased colleagues belongings, to putting the lights back on, the side missions showed the problems and personalities of the officers and other inhabitants of Rogue City. Making them some of my most memorable moments with this game.

Steam Deck Performance

The game runs fantastically well on Steam Deck, with no real stutters, frame drops, or anything to speak off. The only issue has been the actual files on the Steam Deck, with the game downloading itself again, and again when it was fully installed. This was frustrating and delayed my playing experience, something extremely annoying as I paid extra for 48hrs early access. RoboCop: Rogue City also drains the battery quite heavily with the game getting about 90mins out of a full charge.

Summary of RoboCop: Rogue City

RoboCop: Rogue City is more than faithful to the treasured source material that came before it. Taking heavy inspiration from the original two movies, it carved out its own RoboCop timeline and did so without being too confusing. Popular characters return with the incredible highlight of Peter Weller returning as the titular character. The gameplay and gunplay are incredibly refreshing as well. Without the ability to run and manoeuvring like a big heavy cyborg brings a new take on the FPS genre. With RoboCop’s technology and equipment making it just as memorable. I particularly liked how good the base weapon was and the fun of using the Smart Aim function. RoboCop will keep you entertained! It is a define must buy for any RoboCop or FPS fan!

You can purchase RoboCop: Rogue City on Steam.

Overall Rating: 8.5 – Excellent!

You can purchase RoboCop: Rogue City on Steam!

Platform Played On: Steam Deck

Game Time At Review: 10 Hours

Recommendation: Yes

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