Steam Community :: NihilistNova

35.8 hrs on record (21.9 hrs at review time)

I genuinely love this game — it’s absolutely fantastic and delivers an intense, gritty experience that really stands out. That said, some recent content adjustments, particularly for consoles, have taken away a bit of the edge that made it so impactful in the first place. The original vision leaned into a raw and realistic tone, and while some changes were likely made for broader accessibility, they do slightly shift the experience.

For example, there's a cartel mission that originally showcased just how brutal the world of the game could be. In earlier versions, the aftermath of a tortured officer was shown in a way that really sold the severity of the situation. Now, the toned-down version, while still effective, doesn't quite carry the same weight. It's more subtle — a missing eye, a bit of blood — which makes it feel a little lighter than the story might deserve. That said, it's understandable why the developers made this choice, likely to appeal to a wider audience or meet platform guidelines.

That said, one area where the game still completely delivers is immersion. Whether it’s the atmosphere, the sound design, or the way missions play out — it pulls you in hard. From the tension in slow, tactical room-clears to the raw feeling of danger in hostile territory, there’s an authenticity to it that’s hard to find elsewhere. Even with some content being softened, the world still feels incredibly grounded and believable.

What’s important to know is that you’re still getting a strong game — just not exactly the same one we experienced in early access. Some of those darker, more intense missions left a lasting impression, and I’m not sure they’d hit quite the same way today. Still, if you’re new to the game, there’s a lot to enjoy.

Overall, I'd say it's a solid 8/10 in terms of gameplay and design. Personally, I’d recommend waiting for a sale if you’re on the fence, just to get the best value. It’s a great time with friends, and the core missions still hold up well. As for the DLC — it’s mostly cosmetic or alternate gear that doesn’t outperform the base game’s loadout, but the missions that come with it are decently fun.

Posted 21 July.

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