R.E.P.O. Spoiler-Free Review
Image Source: Gamepressure.com
R.E.P.O. is a survival horror Steam game where you take control of a slim robot with adorably huge eyes. The title stands for Retrieve, Extract, and Profit Operation. The robots are tasked with collecting valuables from various creepy locations in service to the Taxman, represented by a crying emoji. The game’s story is nonexistent as the focus is on the chaos of multiplayer mode.
Graphics
The game features standard graphics for the modern era, but nothing really stands out except for the big buggy eye design on the slim bots. One genius graphical touch is the robots’ mouths moving in real time when a player speaks over their mic. This makes for a particularly memorable effect when a player starts laughing. The game’s rooms are often frustratingly dark to add to the horror theme. The robots all look the same, but you can customize the color, which is especially helpful in multiplayer mode to tell who’s who.
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Gameplay
Image Source: Robert D
The game has basic mechanics of using the WASD keys to walk and the mouse to grab objects. Mouse scroll brings the objects in your hands closer or farther. Given this mechanic, a physical computer mouse is necessary to play this game. Each level provides the players with a special cart that will protect valuables from getting damaged as they wander the rooms. As you collect valuables, monsters will start to notice you, especially if any of those valuables, like a giant water jug or money bag, make noise. To get away from these monsters, the game lets you crouch to hide under tables and furniture, sprint to run away, and jump and tumble.
The genius of the gameplay comes from the multiplayer mode. In this mode, up to six players work together to collect valuables, outrun or defeat monsters, and engage in chaotic friendly fire. Players can talk to each other over their mics to communicate, but monsters will be able to hear their voices too. This leads to several chaotic situations in which death is inevitable, but you're guaranteed to die laughing. When every player dies, they have a random brawl in a disposable arena, and the winner is crowned King of the Losers. When players complete a level, they use the money gathered from their collectibles and arrive in a shop. Here, they can purchase weapons and items like strength to lift heavier objects without the aid of other players, stamina, speed, and jump upgrades.
Pros And Cons
Image Source: Robert D
While the game has a single player mode, it is rather tedious and boring. However, it can be a good way to get a feel for the game before joining your friends for a romp. The controls are somewhat janky, and survival is nearly impossible on your own. However, with other players, your chances of survival increase dramatically as several eyes and ears look out for monsters. More valuables are spotted, and teams can work together to lift heavier objects. It’s worth noting that the social aspect of the game makes all the frustrating controls worth the experience. Gamers’ YouTube channels are filled with funny R.E.P.O. videos that highlight chaotic moments.
When a character dies, the camera switches to one of the still living characters, and the dead player can left-click to alternate between the remaining characters’ perspectives. The dead players are listed as the Broken Ones. This list is only visible to the dead players. They can talk to each other and still hear the living players, but the living ones can’t hear them. This makes figuring out who’s dead somewhat of a challenge. The robot heads are left behind when a player dies. The player can be revived by bringing their head to an extraction point with the appropriate amount of valuables. This mechanic makes it less of a punishment to die, as you’re still socializing with others and cheering on the living players.
Verdict
Image Source: Robert D
If you don’t have anyone to play with, skip the game. Without others, it’s boring and tedious. The good news is that the internet makes it possible to find a host’s game to join or host your own and wait for the lobby to fill up. If you have friends interested in playing, especially those farther away that you can’t meet up with regularly, then this game is perfect. You can use your real voice to catch up with each other as you progress through the game’s levels. Lots of laughter and a good time are guaranteed, even if you don’t progress much. So if you’re looking for a laugh with friends, R.E.P.O. is a great choice.
Rating: 7/10
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