Synapse, a rare PlayStation VR2 exclusive from the VR veterans at nDreams, has arrived. This action shooter combines dual-wielding gameplay, a star-studded voice cast, and makes good use of the capabilities of the PlayStation VR2, hoping to deliver a groundbreaking VR experience. Is it a must-play title for PSVR2? Here’s our review.
nDreams’ latest introduces players to a rogue-lite shooter where they must infiltrate the mind of the notorious Colonel Peter Conrad to extract crucial intel and thwart his plans for mass destruction. The game’s standout feature is its impressive implementation of telekinetic powers. Using eye-tracking technology, players can effortlessly select objects with a mere glance and manipulate them using the Sense controllers’ haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. This telekinetic gameplay adds a new level of immersion and control, evoking memories of games like Star Wars Kinect but with far more accuracy in a more immersive environment. Gunplay is tight and intuitive as well, offering a smooth shooting experience, with reloading mechanics that don’t get in the way either. The cover system allows players to take refuge behind any surface, bringing a tactical aspect into the game’s combat mechanics.
While the storyline in Synapse may not be the most original, revolving around a shadowy government organization, it remains engaging and drives the gameplay forward. The delivery of the story is very much in line with traditional video game tropes as well, but it manages to engage players thanks to the inclusion of talented voice actors like David Hayter and Jennifer Hale who adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative, bringing their characters to life.
Visually, Synapse features well designed environments, predominantly presented in monochrome but punctuated with bursts of color for emphasis. But while the fidelity of the game is impressive, the monochrome aesthetic can cause the environments to blend together after a while, depending on how much of a liking you have towards the visual style. The game’s audio design is generally good, with excellent directional audio and an audioscape that comes to life through enemy chatter and very few quiet moments.
The gameplay mechanics, particularly the telekinetic powers, are incredibly well-executed, allowing players to feel like powerful force-wielders. The sense of progression through permanent unlocks and skill trees also offers a satisfying sense of growth and improvement and the difficulty curve is well-balanced, ensuring a consistent challenge without overwhelming players.
But despite its strengths, which showcase nDreams’ expertise in crafting a VR game, Synapse does have a few areas that could be improved. The lack of content and limited level variety can make the experience feel somewhat short, leaving players wanting more. And while the roguelite elements are implemented well, they lack the depth and variety that fans of that genre have come to expect – this is a shooter first and foremost.
Synapse delivers an exciting new VR shooting experience that takes advantage of the PlayStation VR2’s capabilities. Its innovative telekinetic mechanics, impressive visuals, and polished gameplay mechanics make it an exclusive worth having in your PSVR2 library. While the game’s content may feel somewhat limited, the overall experience and sense of empowerment make it a great experience for action and shooter fans.
Score: 7.8/10
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