The Invincible review (PS5)

The Invincible, developed by Starward Industries and published by 11 Bit Studios, invites players into a meticulously crafted cosmic adventure based on Stanisław Lem’s iconic novel. As the astrobiologist Yasna, players embark on a quest to locate their lost crewmates on a mysterious planet called Regis III. As what is essentially a story-based walking simulator, the game’s narrative complexity stands out, presenting players with thought-provoking decisions and multiple story outcomes across a roughly seven-hour playthrough. We played the PlayStation 5 version.

Set against the backdrop of Regis III, The Invincible weaves a tale that delves deep into hard science fiction, touching on intricate themes and theories that may require some extra research for those not already invested in the genre. The game avoids the typical space opera approach of sci-fi games like Mass Effect of Wing Commander, opting instead for a more grounded and immersive astronaut’s perspective, complete with realistic movement and haptic feedback on the PS5 controller to put you into the situation. This emphasis on realism imbues every step on the planet’s surface with a palpable weight, underscoring the harsh reality of space exploration and adding gravitas to your predicament.

While the gameplay focuses on traversing the environment, utilizing gadgets, and interacting with the surroundings, it tends to lean more towards a walking simulator experience despite these more ‘gamey’ elements. Yasna’s journey is guided by clear objectives, ensuring players are never really lost in their quest. The game features a strong sense of atmosphere, immersing players in a world of retro-futuristic technology, with meticulously designed gadgets evoking an art-deco-inspired aesthetic. Each device you encounter serves a purpose, enhancing the exploration and discovery aspects of the game.

The Invincible’s narrative prowess and source material shines through, offering a gripping story that prompts players to ponder philosophical questions while uncovering the mysteries of Regis III. Yasna’s introspective musings and observations add depth to the experience, with well-acted voice work enhancing the emotional resonance and impact of the story. The game’s world design, transitioning from deserts to varied biomes, creates a sense of wonder, reinforced by meticulously detailed geological landmarks as well as the devices you run into.

However, the pace of traversal and the initial lack of a means to swiftly navigate the environment may be perceived as drawbacks by those not used to slower-paced titles. The gameplay, while serviceable, primarily serves as a vessel for the story, potentially leaving some players craving more dynamic and action-oriented interactions. Additionally, the occasional graphical bugs and lighting glitches may disrupt immersion, but we assume those will be fixed post-launch.

In summary, The Invincible offers a captivating narrative-driven experience set against a beautifully designed, retro-futuristic backdrop. While the gameplay may be minimalistic, it serves as a vessel for the thought-provoking story and exploration of Regis III. Yasna’s journey, accompanied by the game’s exceptional audiovisual presentation, makes The Invincible a compelling experience for fans of immersive and interactive storytelling.

Score: 7.3/10