SPRAWL Review

Release Date: August 23, 2023

Developer: Maeth

Publisher: Rogue Games Inc.

Platform: PC

"Review Copy Provided By Reverb"

Alright, confession time: When I first caught wind of SPRAWL, I nearly groaned, thinking, "Here we go, another 'boomer shooter' in the endless sea of retro nods." But, hold onto your joysticks, because SPRAWL isn't just another face in the crowd—it's a game with its own DNA.

The intrigue began with a haunting choir echoing in the background, conjuring vibes of "Ghost in the Shell." It’s not your typical bullet-and-blitz game; it's infused with rich cyberpunk elements. There's an engaging story involving the complexities of AI, a sense of looming governmental menace, and a world that feels both eerily familiar and fresh. Now, about the gameplay. Unlike the convoluted mazes of its retro predecessors, SPRAWL takes a more modern approach. While its paths are more direct, with a few optional branches to explore, they're no less captivating. The game encourages exploration with its platforming puzzles, and the wall-hopping mechanic makes navigating this world a delightful challenge. While it leans heavily on its narrative, delivered in compelling chapters, fear not—there's ample room for sprawling combat, devoid of the usual claustrophobic corners.

Speaking of combat, it's the pulse of SPRAWL. Movement and agility are your allies here, and the game masterfully combines old-school shootouts with innovative features, like the delicious bullet time. But, forget Max Payne's slow-mo dives; SPRAWL's bullet time feels like tapping into a heightened sixth sense. This allows you to savor the combat, highlighting enemy weak points and making evasion an art. Plus, the added perk of bonus adrenaline upon killing foes in this mode? Absolutely chef's kiss.

The weaponry might seem limited at first glance, but it’s not about quantity here—it’s about quality. Those starting pistols? Pure gold. The emphasis on precision and strategy over sheer firepower requires you to think before you shoot. It's like being thrown into a cyber ballet where every move and shot counts.

Aesthetically, SPRAWL is a head-turner. It combines low-poly designs reminiscent of early 2000s shooters with contemporary textures. It's a conscious blend of nostalgia and forward-thinking design, and while the gameplay's speed might turn the world into a whirlwind blur, its visual identity remains unmistakable. However, if there's one thing that truly steals the show, it's the game's sound. Beyond the mesmerizing "Ghost in the Shell" overtures, its soundtrack is a rhythmic beast, pulsating with beats that fit seamlessly into the cyberpunk narrative. The voice acting, especially the intriguing "voice inside your head," adds another layer of immersion.

In today's market saturated with retro tributes, SPRAWL feels like a refreshing breeze. It's more than a mere homage; it's a reinvention. With its clever fusion of old and new elements, engrossing story, and standout combat mechanics, SPRAWL proves that it's not just another title—it's an experience. If you're looking for a game that respects the past but isn't chained to it, SPRAWL is your ticket to a thrilling cybernetic ride.