System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster is more than just a visual overhaul of a cult classic – it’s a thoughtful modernization of one of the most influential sci-fi horror games in gaming history. Originally released in 1999, Looking Glass Studios’ ambitious hybrid of immersive sim, FPS, and RPG mechanics is brought back to life once more by Nightdive Studios with the respect and care it deserves. And while some age lines are still visible beneath the polished surface, this remaster makes a strong case for why System Shock 2 remains as unsettling, engaging, and clever today as it was 25 years ago.
From the moment you awaken in cryo-sleep aboard the doomed Von Braun, the game’s eerie tension takes hold. The creeping dread of wandering through claustrophobic corridors filled with the moans of hybrid creatures still hits hard, and SHODAN – the AI antagonist – retains her terrifying digital presence, both charismatic and chilling in her madness. What’s remarkable is how well the narrative structure, environmental storytelling, and slow-burn progression have aged now that we seem to actually be in the age of AI. Rather than relying on exposition, the remaster continues to trust players to explore and piece together the mystery, giving the game a timeless sense of immersion.
Nightdive’s visual enhancements breathe new life into the Von Braun. Lighting effects have been upgraded significantly, textures are sharper, and enemy and weapon models now have a modern finish without disrupting the original art style. The result is a game that looks better than ever but still retains its unique, late-’90s sci-fi aesthetic. These upgrades are complemented by quality-of-life improvements, including smoother animations, improved UI readability, and solid controller support, which makes the PlayStation 5 version feel fluid and responsive – a major upgrade from the somewhat clunky controls of the original release.
Gameplay-wise, this remains the same deep hybrid of systems that made the original so compelling. Choosing between Navy, Marines, or OSA still changes the way you approach combat and puzzles, and the interplay between skills, psi powers, and inventory management remains refreshingly complex. The addition of co-op play adds a fun wrinkle to the experience – particularly for longtime fans who want to relive the game with a friend – though it’s clearly designed for players familiar with the systems, as it can be overwhelming for newcomers without some coordination.
That said, not all of the game’s older mechanics have aged gracefully. The inventory system, while more manageable thanks to interface improvements, still feels cramped and fiddly. Backtracking can be excessive at times, especially in the absence of modern quest markers, and difficulty spikes – especially in the late game – may frustrate those unaccustomed to old-school design philosophies. The remaster doesn’t significantly rebalance these aspects either, which will be a double-edged sword depending on how much you value authenticity over modernization.
Sound design remains a highlight – the voice acting, particularly SHODAN’s distorted monologues, is as memorable as ever. The ambient audio and music still work wonders to elevate the game’s oppressive atmosphere. Nightdive wisely left much of this untouched, and the decision pays off, with the game’s audio identity as vital and immersive as it was at launch – where it was ahead of its time.
In the end, System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster is both a reverent restoration and a celebration of a foundational game. Nightdive Studios has succeeded in preserving what made the original great, while polishing it just enough for modern platforms without dulling its sharp edges. It’s not for everyone – especially players expecting modern handholding – but for those willing to immerse themselves in its deliberately paced world, this remaster offers an unforgettable journey into cyber-horror. SHODAN is back, and she’s never looked better – making us feel like we’re completely ready for a long-awaited sequel.
Score: 8.5/10
Press Play Media 