Everspace 2 review (PS5)

Rockfish Games’ Everspace 2 has soared onto the PlayStation 5, following its successful debut on PC earlier this year. As we delve into the galaxy of this space-faring RPG, it’s evident that the positive buzz surrounding it was not without cause. Building upon its predecessor’s foundation, Everspace 2 delivers a captivating single-player space shooter experience that’s bound to keep players engaged for hours on end. Let’s take a deep dive into the game’s premise, gameplay mechanics, controls, visuals and audio.

Embarking on a narrative-driven journey, players step into the shoes of Adam, a clone pilot navigating the turbulent star systems of the Demilitarized Zone of Cluster 34. With handcrafted areas filled with secrets, puzzles, and perils, the game’s premise sets the stage for a thrilling sci-fi adventure. The narrative, while enjoyable, doesn’t necessarily reach the heights of epic storytelling, but the universe’s richness and lore compensate for its occasional shortcomings. The campaign’s strong emphasis on progression, combat, and exploration brings depth and purpose to the adventure, allowing players to uncover mysteries, form alliances, and gather companions to help you in your quest.

One of Everspace 2’s standout features is its refined combat mechanics, which earned accolades across the board when it launched on PC. The transition to the PlayStation 5 has been seamless, with gameplay feeling incredibly responsive and intense, especially during dogfights. The integration of DualSense’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers further enhances the experience, providing nuanced cues that keep players engaged in the midst of chaotic space battles. Everspace 2 offers a range of weapons and abilities to take down various foes, from drones to capital vessels, which serves to keep the combat fresh and challenging.

However, like any adventure worth its salt, Everspace 2 presents its share of challenges. The combat’s difficulty is as challenging as it is rewarding, and definitely not as arcade-like as it may seem in videos or trailers. While it adds to the excitement and satisfaction of overcoming adversaries, it can also be overwhelming, particularly in the early stages. Mastering the art of evasive maneuvers and utilizing the environment for cover becomes crucial for survival, adding a layer of strategy to the action.

Visually, Everspace 2 is a true spectacle, which is as true today as it was when we saw the very first footage for the game a few years ago at Gamescom. The PlayStation 5 version boasts stunning graphics, running smoothly at 60fps. The attention to detail in the designs of ships, space stations, and celestial bodies is nothing short of impressive. The spacefaring visuals, with their mesmerizing lighting effects and reflective stars, contribute to a sense of immersion that draws players into the game’s expansive universe with an almost cinematic quality to it. The diversity of locations across different star systems, each handcrafted, adds to the game’s allure.

As for audio, Everspace 2 delivers a fitting soundscape that complements the sci-fi atmosphere. Engaging sound effects, whether the hum of ships or the boom of weapons, add layers to the immersive experience. Coupled with the visuals, the audio creates an environment that feels alive and dynamic – and helps come alive with a good set of speakers and a subwoofer.

A significant highlight is the extensive content and the game’s successful transition from roguelike mechanics to a more open approach. Everspace 2’s use of handcrafted missions, encounters, and events has proved to be a winning formula. The looter shooter elements, coupled with an enticing progression system and customizable ship loadouts, keep players consistently engaged, as they undertake various missions and activities to accumulate resources and gear.

But despite all its strengths, Everspace 2 is not without its minor shortcomings. The narrative, while intriguing, doesn’t always reach the heights of excellence, and the characters can sometimes feel forgettable. Additionally, the story campaign’s focus on being a looter shooter can sometimes overshadow the narrative, making the storytelling aspect feel somewhat secondary.

In conclusion, Everspace 2 on the PlayStation 5 is an interstellar triumph. Rockfish Games’ sequel not only improves upon its predecessor’s flaws but also sets a new standard for space shooters – though that term sells it short. The integration of DualSense’s features elevates the gameplay to new heights, and the transition to a more open approach pays off in spades. From captivating combat to meticulously designed star systems, Everspace 2 offers an unforgettable journey through the cosmos. Whether you’re a seasoned spacefarer or a newcomer to the genre, this game’s engaging narrative and addictive gameplay will keep you exploring its vast galaxy for hours on end.

Score: 8.2/10