The Invincible PS5 Review
| Game: | The Invincible |
|---|---|
| Publisher: | 11 Bit Studios |
| Developer: |
The Invincible unfolds as a deliberate, science fiction experience, resembling more of a walking simulator with intermittent interactions such as dialogue choices and information gathering. While the game incorporates elements of exploration, the predominant activity is walking forward, absorbing the surroundings while the narrative gradually reveals itself.
Based on Stanisław Lem’s 1964 Polish sci-fi novel, the game introduces Yasna, a biologist, and her small group exploring the mysterious planet Regis III. The narrative takes an unexpected turn as strange events unfold, leading Yasna to navigate the challenges of an unfamiliar environment, marked by amnesia and the quest to reunite with her scattered crew.
The game prioritises storytelling and realism, offering a glimpse into the hypothetical scenario of interplanetary exploration. Survival, teamwork, and themes such as the potential dominance of robots and military arms races are woven into the plot. The characters, notably the Astrogator, maintain professionalism throughout, guiding Yasna as they both uncover the mysteries of Regis III.
The storyline progresses seamlessly, with Yasna and the Astrogator setting and achieving goals, ensuring a continuous and engaging experience. The game’s narrative complexity and exploration are occasionally punctuated by action set pieces, forcing Yasna to use her intellect and a bit of luck to navigate near-death situations.
Yasna utilises various tools during exploration, including a metal detector, tracker, binoculars, and a map. However, the map’s design may confuse from time to time, hindering the enjoyment of uncovering hidden details. Additionally, the game’s exploration can be sluggish due to Yasna’s slow movement and limited stamina, potentially discouraging thorough exploration.
While the game presents an intriguing mystery, certain areas are vast and cumbersome to explore. The Rover, a vehicle added later, facilitates quicker navigation, but issues arise with limited visibility thanks to the tiny front view windows, and difficulty in maintaining the correct path due to certain areas looking too much the same.
The Invincible still impresses with visually attractive visuals that play a crucial role in creating an immersive atmosphere. The depiction of the alien planet, Regis III, stands out as a highlight, presenting a variety of environments that range from desolate sandy landscapes to mysterious and atmospheric caverns. Additionally, the inclusion of dynamic weather changes not only adds to the overall realism but also intensifies the urgency of the in-game situation.
The game’s commitment to realism is evident in its portrayal of the alien world, steering clear of the fantastical and whimsical alien designs found in titles like No Man’s Sky. Instead, The Invincible offers a more grounded and authentic representation of extraterrestrial landscapes, contributing to a sense of believability in the game’s universe.
An audible drawback, albeit a minor one, is Yasna’s voice, which some may find grating. The actresses delivery, though attempting naturalism, tends to be breathy, with lines concluding in gasps or deep breaths. Yasna’s repetitive lines, especially during quiet moments when you simply want to absorb the world, can detract from the experience. Dialogue can also overlap, particularly during moments when you need to select what you want to say, and can be rushed, affecting the immersion in critical moments, and possibly missing important points.
Despite these drawbacks, The Invincible succeeds in delivering a thought-provoking and visually compelling sci-fi narrative, and with as many as 11 endings, there’s plenty of replay value for those who want to experience the full story. Its strengths lie in its commitment to realism and the portrayal of the complexities involved in exploring alien worlds. While it may not cater to those seeking a more fast-paced or exploration-centric experience, The Invincible manages to carve a niche for itself in the realm of narrative-driven science fiction games.
