Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector review (PS5)

Building upon the strong foundation of its acclaimed predecessor, Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector expands on the narrative-driven RPG experience with deeper mechanics, broader choices, and a more expansive universe. This sequel refines the tabletop-inspired gameplay that made the original so compelling, while introducing new elements that enhance both tension and player agency.

The game once again places players in the role of a Sleeper – an artificial consciousness inhabiting a failing body – who is now on the run from the corporation that created them and a gang that seeks to control them. The stakes feel higher this time, with a malfunctioning system adding an extra layer of urgency to every decision. Navigating the game’s branching storylines is more rewarding than ever, with weighty choices that impact not just the protagonist’s own future, but the world around them as well.

Core gameplay remains centered around its unique dice-based system, but it has been revamped to offer greater flexibility. Players must carefully allocate their rolls, balancing risk and reward while managing stress and system failures. The introduction of “Push” abilities allows for strategic rerolls or focused bets on success, creating moments of triumph and tension alike. The addition of contracts, which are multi-cycle jobs that demand careful preparation and adaptability, deepens the tactical aspect of the experience. These new mechanics make progression feel more engaging and meaningful, though the reliance on random number generation may frustrate some players in high-stakes moments.

Exploring the Starward Belt is another highlight, with greater freedom to chart a course and take on jobs at the player’s discretion. The open-ended nature of navigation fosters a sense of discovery, encouraging players to seek out hidden narratives and unexpected encounters. The locations feel alive, and the writing continues to be a standout, delivering thought-provoking themes about identity, autonomy, and survival in a capitalist dystopia. The dialogue is rich and evocative, further immersing players in the game’s atmospheric world.

Visually, the game retains the striking, stylized aesthetic of its predecessor while refining animations and environmental details. The user interface remains clean and functional, ensuring that the game’s complexity never becomes overwhelming. The soundtrack complements the experience beautifully, with ambient synth tones that reinforce the melancholic yet hopeful tone of the narrative.

While Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector improves on many aspects of the original, some elements may not resonate with all players. The reliance on dice rolls means that luck can occasionally feel like an obstacle rather than an engaging challenge, and the slow pacing of certain storylines might deter those seeking more immediate rewards. Nevertheless, the game excels in delivering a deeply personal sci-fi journey, packed with meaningful choices, engaging writing, and rewarding tactical depth.

For fans of narrative-driven RPGs and those who appreciated the first game’s unique approach, this sequel is an evolution worth experiencing. Citizen Sleeper 2 takes what worked before and enhances it with greater agency, strategic depth, and a richer world, making it a must-play for those who value immersive storytelling and emergent decision-making.

Score: 8.6/10