Beta Decay, developed by Rotoscope Studios, presents itself as a mix of dystopian RPG, survival, third and first-person shooter, and roguelike elements. The game boasts a big open-world planet with dystopian cities and underground resource-rich zones. The concept of taking on different roles, similar to EVE Online, such as trading in shops for “digital securities”, living as an engineer “calibrating communication servers”, or leading factions in “raids” on rivals is intriguing. However, the sheer scale of the game’s ambitions may be its downfall. It risks overpromising on features that even a triple AAA studio would struggle to execute seamlessly.
One of Beta Decay’s ambitious features is the ability to build spacecraft with “complex subsystems” like server networks, power grids, and life support systems. While this idea sounds fantastic, there is a concern that the game might be attempting too much. The challenge of implementing such intricate systems and ensuring they work cohesively without overwhelming players is a significant hurdle to overcome.
The inclusion of survival mechanics such as eating, drinking, and sleeping, adds another layer of complexity to Beta Decay. These elements are vital for keeping the character alive, but they can also become tedious tasks that detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. Additionally, the stakes in combat are high, with death being permanent. While some players may appreciate the intense gameplay, others may find it off-putting to have to constantly manage survival bars to avoid character death.
The gameplay snippet released by Rotoscope Studios showcases the combat in Beta Decay, with seamless switches between third and first-person perspectives. The combat mechanics, reminiscent of games like Kill Switch and Rainbow Six Vegas, offer a nostalgic feel for players who enjoyed classic shooter games. The fast-paced action and cover-based shooting add an exciting element to the game. However, the overall graphics and visual appeal of Beta Decay remain to be seen, as the game is still in development.
While Beta Decay presents an ambitious and innovative concept with its mix of genres and intricate gameplay features, there are concerns about the game’s ability to deliver on its promises. The risk of overpromising on complex systems and gameplay mechanics could result in a disjointed and overwhelming experience for players. However, if Rotoscope Studios can streamline and focus on delivering a satisfying shooter experience, Beta Decay has the potential to be a standout title in the gaming industry. Keep an eye on Beta Decay’s development progress on its official site and on Steam to see if it lives up to the hype.
Leave a Reply