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EVERSPACE 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of EVERSPACE 2
Item: EVERSPACE 2
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Shooter, Open World, Simulation, RPG, Single Player

AvailableApr 6, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperROCKFISH Games

Overview

Everspace 2 is a fast-paced single-player spaceship shooter with exploration in space and on planets, tons of loot, RPG elements, mining, and crafting. Experience an exciting sci-fi story set in a vivid, handcrafted open world full of secrets, puzzles, and perils. Everspace 2 is available on PC and is coming to consoles Summer 2023.

Elsewhere

7.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

EVERSPACE 2's story is a mixed bag—critics praise its engaging premise and relatable protagonist, Adam Roslin, while also noting its compelling universe and rich lore. However, many reviewers criticize the narrative as forgettable, with clichéd plots, flat character development, and disjointed storytelling that undermines its potential. Ultimately, the story feels more like a backdrop for gameplay than a captivating narrative, leaving opinions divided.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

34%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of EVERSPACE 2 has garnered a mix of praise and critique from various reviewers, highlighting several positive aspects. Critics like COGconnected and But Why Tho? commend the narrative for its engaging and compelling nature, with COGconnected noting the complex and robust storyline that takes players across different star systems. The character of Adam Roslin, an illegal clone, is often highlighted as a relatable protagonist navigating a war-torn universe, with reviewers from GamingTrend and CD-Action noting the depth and immersion provided by the story, which is filled with choices and side missions that enrich the gameplay experience. Additionally, some critics, such as CGMagazine, draw comparisons to epic narratives like Star Wars, appreciating the lore and conspiracy elements that add intrigue to the universe. However, the story also faces significant criticism, with many reviewers pointing out its shortcomings. Critics like PlayStation Universe and TheSixthAxis describe the narrative as largely forgettable and generic, with flat presentation styles that detract from the overall experience. IGN and its international counterparts express disappointment in the character development, labeling them as stiff and disposable, while GameCritics and SpazioGames mention that the plot relies on clichéd tropes and lacks depth, leaving players with unanswered questions. Moreover, the storytelling methods, as noted by PlayStation Country, can feel disjointed, making it difficult for players to connect with the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while EVERSPACE 2 offers an interesting premise and some engaging elements, it struggles with execution. Many reviewers appreciate the potential of the story and its characters, but the presentation and pacing issues significantly undermine its impact. Critics like Shacknews and Meristation acknowledge that the narrative builds on the original game and features a diverse cast, yet the lack of depth and reliance on familiar sci-fi tropes leave a mixed impression. Ultimately, the story seems to serve more as a backdrop for gameplay rather than a compelling narrative force, leading to a divided reception among players and critics alike.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

EVERSPACE 2 impresses with its addictive action RPG mechanics, responsive controls, and thrilling dogfights, earning praise for its exploration and customizable looter shooter system. Critics highlight the engaging arcade-style combat and diverse missions, though some warn of repetitive mission design and a lack of clarity in game mechanics. Overall, despite minor flaws, it’s a hit for fans of the genre, offering a satisfying mix of flight and combat.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of EVERSPACE 2 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its engaging action RPG mechanics, responsive controls, and exhilarating dogfights. Reviewers from COGconnected and God is a Geek highlight the addictive nature of exploration and combat, noting that the game features a robust looter shooter system that encourages players to experiment with various customizable spacecraft and weapons. Critics like TheSixthAxis and But Why Tho? emphasize the smooth 3D combat and responsive controls, which contribute to the game's enjoyable arcade-style flight dynamics. Additionally, the variety of missions and activities, as mentioned by PlayStation Universe and GamingBolt, enhances the overall experience, allowing players to engage in combat, exploration, and even puzzle-solving. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics point out areas where the gameplay can fall short. Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Country mention that the mission design can become repetitive over time, suggesting that while the core mechanics are strong, the structure of missions may not always keep players engaged. IGN and Movies Games and Tech echo this sentiment, noting that although the combat remains enjoyable, the core gameplay loop can feel monotonous after extended play. Furthermore, Gamer.no raises concerns about the game's lack of adequate explanations for its systems, which could leave players feeling lost as they navigate the various mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics is that EVERSPACE 2 delivers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly for fans of action RPGs and looter shooters. The majority of reviewers, including those from PC Gamer and Shacknews, commend the game's blend of arcade-style flight and tactical combat, which keeps the gameplay engaging. While there are valid criticisms regarding mission design and potential repetitiveness, the positive aspects of the gameplay, such as the responsive controls, diverse combat mechanics, and opportunities for exploration, far outweigh the negatives. As a result, EVERSPACE 2 is viewed as a successful title that offers a rich and satisfying experience for players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

EVERSPACE 2 wows with stunning visuals and immersive environments, praised for its impressive lighting and detailed ship designs. Critics celebrate its sci-fi and fantasy blend, enhancing exploration. However, minor flaws like fuzzy textures, underwhelming cutscenes, and lifeless biomes are noted. Overall, it’s a visually captivating experience that stands out in the space shooter genre, despite some shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of EVERSPACE 2 is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its stunning visuals and immersive environments. Reviewers from outlets like God is a Geek and PlayStation Universe highlighted the game’s impressive lighting effects and detailed ship designs, contributing to a visually engaging experience. Critics such as Metro GameCentral and PC Gamer emphasized the game’s varied and beautiful visuals, noting the intricate designs of space environments and the effective use of lighting and particle effects. The game’s aesthetic has been described as a seamless blend of science fiction and fantasy, further enhancing the exploration experience, as pointed out by But Why Tho? and GamingTrend. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics did note certain shortcomings in the visual design. COGconnected mentioned that while the explosions and lighting were effective, some textures appeared fuzzy when viewed up close, and there were limited visual adjustment options on the PS5. Impulsegamer criticized the cutscenes for shifting to a less appealing hand-drawn style that felt like a placeholder, which detracted from the overall visual experience. Additionally, CGMagazine pointed out that some larger biomes felt devoid of life and lacked interactiveness, which could impact immersion during gameplay. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that EVERSPACE 2 delivers a visually impressive experience that successfully captures the vastness and beauty of space. While there are minor criticisms regarding texture quality and some cutscene presentations, the majority of reviewers, including those from IGN Italia and Meristation, agree that the game’s stunning graphics and vibrant environments create an engaging atmosphere that enhances the overall gameplay experience. The combination of detailed ship designs, dynamic lighting, and beautifully crafted locations positions EVERSPACE 2 as a standout title in the space shooter genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

EVERSPACE 2's sound design and music have received praise for enhancing gameplay and creating an immersive atmosphere, with standout voice acting noted by several critics. However, inconsistencies in voice performances and a few lackluster musical elements have sparked criticism. Overall, while the game's auditory experience is generally positive, it features notable highs and lows, leading to mixed but favorable reviews.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of EVERSPACE 2 have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly in terms of voice acting and the overall auditory experience. Many reviewers, such as GamingBolt and GamingTrend, praised the sound design as excellent, noting that it enhances gameplay by helping players locate enemies and creating an immersive atmosphere. The music has also been highlighted for its quality, with Gamer Escape describing the soundtrack as featuring "bass-heavy grooves and synthesized harmonies" that complement the game’s ambiance. Additionally, Impulsegamer compared the music to the works of Vangelis, suggesting that it significantly contributes to the overall experience, while PlayStation Country emphasized that the music fits the game's atmosphere well without overwhelming sound effects. Despite the positive aspects, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting and some elements of the sound design. PC Games pointed out that while the main character's voice acting is strong, other characters' performances can come off as stiff or bland, a sentiment echoed by Shacknews, which criticized the flat delivery of some voice actors. GameSkinny also expressed disappointment with the soundtrack, describing it as a "rather bland techno-pop" that fails to leave a lasting impression. This inconsistency in voice acting quality and the mixed feelings about the music suggest that while there are standout elements, there are also areas that detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while EVERSPACE 2 excels in certain aspects of sound design and music, particularly regarding the immersive qualities and some strong voice performances, it also suffers from inconsistencies in voice acting and a lackluster soundtrack for some players. Reviewers like COGconnected and Oyungezer acknowledge the game's strong voice acting and sound design, while others like Shacknews and GameSkinny highlight the shortcomings. This blend of praise and criticism illustrates that while the auditory elements of EVERSPACE 2 enhance the gameplay experience, they are not without their flaws, leading to a mixed but predominantly favorable reception.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

EVERSPACE 2's voice acting receives mixed reviews; while critics praise standout performances that enhance character depth and immersion, others flag significant shortcomings like bland and emotionless delivery that detracts from the experience. The inconsistency in performance quality creates a divide, leaving some players satisfied and others craving more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in EVERSPACE 2 has garnered a range of positive feedback from several critics, highlighting the strengths of the performances and the overall immersion they provide. For instance, GamingTrend notes that the game features over four hours of voice work, effectively bringing the characters and universe to life. Critics such as Oyungezer and CGMagazine also commend the voice acting, with the latter specifically praising the engaging banter between the protagonist and standout characters like Elek, a small bat-like alien. Additionally, PC Games and Movies Games and Tech emphasize the quality of the main character's voice acting, which adds depth and personality, contributing positively to the player's connection with the narrative. However, not all reviews are favorable, as several critics point out significant shortcomings in the voice acting. COGconnected describes the voice acting as "hokey and bland," which detracts from the overall experience. Similarly, Shacknews criticizes the performances as lacking in emotional delivery, suggesting that the flatness of the acting robs the script of its intended impact. While some characters shine, others are described as having stiff dialogues, as noted by PC Games, leading to a mixed reception regarding the overall quality of the voice acting. This inconsistency highlights a disparity in performance quality across the cast, which can affect player immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in EVERSPACE 2 is a blend of appreciation for certain standout performances and disappointment with others. While the game features commendable voice work that enhances character depth and engagement, as highlighted by critics like Movies Games and Tech and PC Gamer, there are notable instances of blandness and stiffness that detract from the experience, as pointed out by COGconnected and Shacknews. This dichotomy suggests that while the voice acting has the potential to elevate the game, inconsistencies in performance quality leave some players wanting more.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

EVERSPACE 2 shines on PS5 with smooth 60fps gameplay and minor glitches, earning high praise for its stability. In contrast, the PC version struggles with mixed reviews due to visual issues, framerate drops, and crashes, indicating a need for further optimization. While console players enjoy a polished experience, PC users face inconsistencies that could hinder gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of EVERSPACE 2 has garnered predominantly positive feedback across both the PlayStation 5 and PC platforms. On PS5, critics like God is a Geek and PlayStation Universe highlight the game's smooth performance, consistently running at 60fps, which contributes to an enjoyable gaming experience. Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Country echo this sentiment, noting the game's polished nature with only minor cosmetic glitches. The overall impression from these reviews suggests that the PS5 version is well-optimized, with a stable performance that enhances gameplay, particularly during intense combat scenarios. On the other hand, the PC version of EVERSPACE 2 receives a mixed bag of responses regarding its technical performance. While Eurogamer Germany and IGN Italia commend the game for its excellent technical aspects and stable performance, other critics like COGconnected and GameCritics point out issues such as minor visual glitches, framerate drops, and frequent loading screens that disrupt gameplay. GamingTrend also mentions performance issues, including crashes, indicating that while the game performs well on some systems, there are inconsistencies that could affect the experience for others. This divergence in opinions highlights that the PC version may require further optimization to achieve a uniformly smooth experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that EVERSPACE 2 performs admirably on the PS5, with a strong emphasis on stability and polish, as noted by critics like PlayStation Universe and PC Games. Conversely, the PC version, while praised for its potential and decent performance on higher-end setups, faces criticism for technical issues that detract from the experience, as pointed out by GameCritics and GamingTrend. The feedback indicates that while the game has made significant strides in technical performance, especially on consoles, ongoing updates may be necessary to address the concerns raised by PC players, ensuring a more consistent experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

EVERSPACE 2 boasts a wealth of content and engaging mechanics, with critics praising its lengthy campaign and customization options for replayability. However, repetitive tasks and a lack of mission variety may lead to player fatigue over time, potentially undermining its long-term appeal. While great for exploration and loot lovers, the game's monotony could limit its replay value.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of EVERSPACE 2 is largely positive, with many critics praising the game for its extensive content and engaging mechanics. COGconnected highlights the lengthy campaign and numerous side missions, suggesting a decent level of replayability for players who enjoy grinding and exploration. Similarly, God is a Geek emphasizes the deep loot system and countless missions, which encourage players to experiment with different builds. Critics like PC Games and CD-Action also note the substantial playtime, with estimates ranging from 60 to over 100 hours, indicating that players can find ample opportunities for exploration and engagement. The variety of customization options and the presence of endgame content, as mentioned by GamingBolt and Meristation, further enhance the game's replay value by catering to diverse playstyles. Despite the positive aspects, several reviewers point out significant drawbacks that may affect long-term replayability. Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Country both mention the repetitive nature of tasks and missions, which could lead to player fatigue over time. Oyungezer echoes this sentiment, suggesting that the side quests lack diversity and that the excitement of gameplay diminishes as players progress. IGN and PC Gamer also touch on the issue of inventory management and the rapid obsolescence of new gear, which may detract from the overall enjoyment of replaying the game. This repetitive element seems to be a common concern among critics, raising questions about the game's longevity. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while EVERSPACE 2 offers a wealth of content and engaging gameplay mechanics, its replay value is somewhat hampered by repetitive tasks and a lack of mission variety. Many reviewers, such as PlayStation Universe and TheSixthAxis, highlight the potential for replayability through side missions and customization, but they also acknowledge the pitfalls of monotony that could deter players from returning for extended periods. The game appears to be a solid choice for those who appreciate exploration and loot collection, yet the concerns about repetitiveness suggest that its replay value may not be as robust as initially perceived.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding EVERSPACE 2 is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and immersive experience. Reviewers such as COGconnected and God is a Geek highlight the game’s solid narrative and addictive combat mechanics, emphasizing that it successfully builds on its predecessor and delivers a worthwhile investment for fans of the genre. The visual design is frequently noted as a standout feature, with multiple critics, including GameCritics and Shacknews, describing it as visually stunning and immersive. The game’s blend of looter-shooter mechanics with space combat is also well-received, as seen in the reviews from Eurogamer Germany and GamingBolt, who appreciate the variety of activities and motivating progression it offers. However, despite its many strengths, several critics point out notable weaknesses, particularly regarding the narrative and repetitiveness of gameplay. Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Country mention issues with storytelling and mission design, suggesting that the plot lacks depth and can lead to a sense of grind. Critics like IGN and GameCritics echo this sentiment, describing the story and character development as forgettable or disappointing, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Gamer.no and Oyungezer, express concerns about the game becoming repetitive and not fully realizing its potential, indicating that while the gameplay is enjoyable, it may not hold up over extended play sessions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that EVERSPACE 2 is a highly enjoyable and recommended title for fans of space shooters and RPGs, despite its narrative shortcomings. Many reviewers, including those from PC Gamer and The Games Machine, highlight the game as a refreshing addition to the genre, praising its engaging mechanics and visual appeal while acknowledging the need for improvements in story and mission variety. The general agreement is that while EVERSPACE 2 may not be perfect, it offers a compelling experience that captures the essence of space exploration and combat, making it a worthy sequel that appeals to both newcomers and returning players alike.

TL;DR

EVERSPACE 2 impresses with engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and addictive combat, earning praise from critics as a worthy sequel. However, its narrative and mission design are criticized for lacking depth and becoming repetitive. Despite these flaws, the game is recommended for fans of space shooters and RPGs, offering a compelling experience that highlights space exploration and combat while needing improvements in story and variety.

MONSTER

Reviews

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