76
MONSTER
The year is 2084. In a dark cyberpunk world shattered by plagues and wars, become a neural detective and hack into the minds of others. Rebuilt and augmented for the next-generation, Observer: System Redux is the definitive vision of one of the most acclaimed cyberpunk stories in games.
Game analysis
Monster Scorecard
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Story and Narrative
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77
A divisive cyberpunk thriller, Observer: System Redux dazzles with atmospheric depth and existential themes but stumbles on uneven pacing and narrative repetition. Critics praise its Blade Runner-esque exploration of humanity amid transhumanist decay, while others call it slow, incoherent, and derivative. Ambitious yet flawed, it splits players between awe at its bold ideas and frustration over execution.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY
Story Score
77
Positive Reviews (80-100)
58%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
42%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.
TL;DR
story and narrative
A divisive cyberpunk thriller, Observer: System Redux dazzles with atmospheric depth and existential themes but stumbles on uneven pacing and narrative repetition. Critics praise its Blade Runner-esque exploration of humanity amid transhumanist decay, while others call it slow, incoherent, and derivative. Ambitious yet flawed, it splits players between awe at its bold ideas and frustration over execution.
Gameplay Mechanics
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70
Observer: System Redux delivers atmospheric, cerebral horror with slick stealth, DualSense immersion, and refined puzzles, but clunky navigation, repetitive tasks, and frustrating mechanics undermine its potential, leaving a mixed legacy of innovation vs. polish.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY
Gameplay Score
70
Positive Reviews (80-100)
11%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
87%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
3%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.
TL;DR
gameplay mechanics
Observer: System Redux delivers atmospheric, cerebral horror with slick stealth, DualSense immersion, and refined puzzles, but clunky navigation, repetitive tasks, and frustrating mechanics undermine its potential, leaving a mixed legacy of innovation vs. polish.
Graphics and Visual Design
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87
Observer: System Redux dazzles with its oppressive, neon-drenched cyberpunk atmosphere, leveraging next-gen tech for immersive, Blade Runner-esque visuals, though technical hiccups and underdeveloped character models dim its shine.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS
Visual Score
87
Positive Reviews (80-100)
84%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
16%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.
TL;DR
graphics and visual design
Observer: System Redux dazzles with its oppressive, neon-drenched cyberpunk atmosphere, leveraging next-gen tech for immersive, Blade Runner-esque visuals, though technical hiccups and underdeveloped character models dim its shine.
Music and Sound Design
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79
Praise for Observer: System Redux's immersive sound design—3D audio, eerie synths, and ambient tension—powers its psychological horror, but overreliance on audio cues, mumbled voice acting, and uneven music undermine accessibility and impact.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN
Sound Score
79
Positive Reviews (80-100)
33%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
67%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.
TL;DR
music and sound design
Praise for Observer: System Redux's immersive sound design—3D audio, eerie synths, and ambient tension—powers its psychological horror, but overreliance on audio cues, mumbled voice acting, and uneven music undermine accessibility and impact.
Voice Acting
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81
Rutger Hauer’s haunting, emotionally charged portrayal of Detective Lazarski in Observer: System Redux electrifies the dystopian narrative, hailed for its depth and iconic "tears in the rain" monologue—though critics debate his occasionally flat delivery and uneven supporting voices, which slightly temper the immersion.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING
Acting Score
81
Positive Reviews (80-100)
74%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
26%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.
TL;DR
voice acting
Rutger Hauer’s haunting, emotionally charged portrayal of Detective Lazarski in Observer: System Redux electrifies the dystopian narrative, hailed for its depth and iconic "tears in the rain" monologue—though critics debate his occasionally flat delivery and uneven supporting voices, which slightly temper the immersion.
Technical Performance
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73
Observer: System Redux shines with next-gen visuals, stable performance, and refined mechanics across PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC—each platform boasting unique upgrades. While minor glitches persist (navigation hiccups on PS5, frame drops on Xbox, PC optimization quirks), critics agree these are overshadowed by polished gameplay, smoother load times, and a more immersive experience than the 2017 original. A technically solid remaster with manageable flaws.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE
Tech Score
73
Positive Reviews (80-100)
28%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
72%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.
TL;DR
technical performance
Observer: System Redux shines with next-gen visuals, stable performance, and refined mechanics across PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC—each platform boasting unique upgrades. While minor glitches persist (navigation hiccups on PS5, frame drops on Xbox, PC optimization quirks), critics agree these are overshadowed by polished gameplay, smoother load times, and a more immersive experience than the 2017 original. A technically solid remaster with manageable flaws.
Replay Value
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66
Observer: System Redux delivers haunting atmosphere and expanded side quests that tempt repeat plays, but its short runtime, repetitive mechanics, and underwhelming endings undermine lasting appeal—splitting fans between immersive depth and structural flaws.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE
Replay Score
66
Positive Reviews (80-100)
5%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
85%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
10%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.
TL;DR
replay value
Observer: System Redux delivers haunting atmosphere and expanded side quests that tempt repeat plays, but its short runtime, repetitive mechanics, and underwhelming endings undermine lasting appeal—splitting fans between immersive depth and structural flaws.
Overall Verdict
76
MONSTER
OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION
Monster Score
76
Positive Reviews (80-100)
68%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
32%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.
TL;DR
A stellar cyberpunk horror experience with jaw-dropping visuals and immersive atmosphere, but plagued by clunky gameplay, repetitive mechanics, and a convoluted narrative—worth it for fans, but polarizing for others.
76
MONSTER
Reviews
88 reviews found96
Impulsegamer
Nov 23, 2020
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Observer: System Redux is hailed as a transformative, immersive experience that combines stunning visuals, sound design, and psychological storytelling. While its narrative has flaws, the game's technical and artistic achievements make it a standout title that leaves a lasting impact on players.
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95
God is a Geek
Nov 17, 2020
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Observer: System Redux is praised as a refined remake with significant improvements in visuals, gameplay, and storytelling. It’s recommended for fans of psychological thrillers and cyberpunk aesthetics, offering a polished experience on next-gen consoles.
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90
The Digital Fix
Nov 20, 2020
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
A compelling remaster that refines the original's strengths while expanding its narrative and gameplay. It feels timely and relevant, leveraging cyberpunk themes to create an immersive, horror-driven experience.
90
Gamers Heroes
Nov 25, 2020
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The review awards an overall score of 90%, calling Observer: System Redux one of the most impressive remaster packages. It combines a strong story, improved gameplay, and stunning visuals to create a compelling experience that justifies its remaster status.
90
Gameblog.fr
Nov 24, 2020
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Observer: System Redux is praised for its strong narrative, improved visuals, and refined gameplay mechanics, despite technical issues on PC. It is recommended for fans of cyberpunk storytelling and psychological horror, offering a compelling experience that justifies its enhancements over the original.
90
Game Revolution
Nov 19, 2020
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Observer: System Redux improves upon the original with refined mechanics and enhanced visuals, but its core experience remains a slow, atmospheric narrative. It’s a must-play for cyberpunk fans but may not convert critics of the original.
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86
Digital Chumps
Nov 30, 2020
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Observer: System Redux is a significant improvement over the original, praised for its presentation, new content, and value. It is recommended as a compelling cyberpunk mystery thriller.
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85
Critical Hit
Nov 18, 2020
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A well-received enhanced edition with strong visuals, atmospheric storytelling, and improved mechanics. Despite flaws like repetition and technical issues, it succeeds as a cyberpunk horror experience and a worthwhile upgrade.
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85
PlayStation Universe
Nov 19, 2020
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Observer: System Redux is a strong upgrade with enhanced visuals and hardware optimization, offering an immersive cyberpunk horror experience. However, some issues like voice acting and limited character interactions remain unaddressed.
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85
The Games Machine
Nov 18, 2020
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The review is overwhelmingly positive
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