ArcRunner, developed by Trickjump Games Ltd. and distributed by PQube, plunges players into a cyberpunk-styled roguelite shooter. Available now for consoles including the PlayStation 5 after an earlier PC release, the game transports players to the Titan-Class Space Station Arc, where they face imminent challenges while attempting to contain a rogue artificial intelligence named KORE. As an ArcRunner, your mission is clear: restore order on the station by resetting the malicious AI.
However, this seemingly simple premise does not do justice to the complexity of the experience that ArcRunner offers. Upon entering the game, you are reatomized on the station, immersed in a hostile environment populated by robots determined to end you. While the narrative may not be the focal point, it provides an intriguing context for the relentless action that unfolds.
The core mechanic of the game is the exploration of randomly generated areas, in which players face hordes of varied enemies. While some will see this roguelike setup as a repetitive formula compared to the likes of Ghostrunner, the way it’s been implemented also brings strategic depth, encouraging players to replay the game to progress through obtaining nanites for upgrades and new abilities. The variety of classes, such as Soldier, Ninja, and Hacker, offers different play styles, making each run unique and challenging. There is also a multiplayer mode, allowing up to three players to tackle the challenge together when playing online.
Visually, ArcRunner offers a vibrant cyberpunk aesthetic, with stylized 3D models and pulsating neons that capture the essence of the genre. The electronic soundtrack perfectly complements the game’s futuristic atmosphere, immersing players in an immersive audiovisual experience.
However, ArcRunner is not without its flaws. The user interface’s unfriendly nature may hinder understanding of the game’s mechanics, especially for beginners as there’s a steep learning curve. Additionally, the lack of checkpoints or starting points can make progression frustrating, especially in longer runs with a lot of mechanics at work.
In summary, ArcRunner offers a solid roguelite action experience, with captivating mechanics and engaging challenges. Despite its usability flaws, the game compensates with its dynamic gameplay and striking visual style. With some improvements to the user interface and game progression, ArcRunner could reach its full potential and provide an even more rewarding experience for players. But if you’re looking for a fresh dose of cyberpunk action, ArcRunner is definitely worth checking out.
Score: 7.1/10
Press Play Media 