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CRITIK

EVERSPACE 2

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

2023

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

AvailableApr 6, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, 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

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

44%

Mixed (50-79)

56%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of EVERSPACE 2 are generally positive. Many critics praise the game for its compelling and engaging narrative that slowly uncovers the layers of its universe without overwhelming the player. Critics such as But Why Tho?? and CD-Action appreciate how the story serves as a solid backdrop for the gameplay and provides opportunities for exploration and discovery. CGMagazine goes as far as comparing the deep and engaging story to the epic scope of Star Wars: The Clone Wars. The game is commended for its complex and robust narrative that takes the player across various star systems, planets, and space stations, as mentioned by COGconnected. The story is told through animated illustrations and continuous radio chatter, adding to the immersive experience. However, there are some critics who have a more negative view of the story in EVERSPACE 2. Eurogamer Germany finds the story presentation lackluster, while GameSkinny believes that the narrative isn't particularly intriguing and that the characters mostly interact during cutscenes or scripted mission moments, missing an opportunity to capture the camaraderie among space renegades. IGN and IGN Italia also express disappointment in the forgettable story and underutilized supporting characters. SpazioGames criticizes the lack of depth and explanations in the story, leaving players with unanswered questions about the protagonist and the events of the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that EVERSPACE 2 offers a solid and enjoyable story with engaging elements. The narrative is praised for its twists and turns, well-executed writing, and realistic characters, as noted by GamingBolt and Gamer Escape. The game's story is described as compelling, with a sympathetic crew and a grounded approach, following the protagonist's journey to build a new life after escaping from being hunted, according to GameStar. Shacknews appreciates how the game tells a fresh and unique story that builds on what made the original game interesting, eventually finding its footing and delivering more interesting stories with a diverse cast of characters. While there are some criticisms regarding the lack of originality, underdeveloped characters, and stiff dialogue, the overall sentiment is that EVERSPACE 2 offers a worthwhile story experience, albeit with room for improvement in certain areas.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed feelings about the story in EVERSPACE 2. Some praise its engaging narrative that unfolds gradually, likening it to the epic scope of Star Wars. However, others find the story lackluster, lacking depth and underutilizing characters. Despite some shortcomings, most critics agree that the game offers a solid and enjoyable story with twists, well-written characters, and a fresh approach. Overall, EVERSPACE 2 is seen as a worthwhile story experience with room for improvement.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

81%

Mixed (50-79)

19%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the videogame reviewers regarding the gameplay of EVERSPACE 2 are overwhelmingly positive. The majority of critics praised the combat mechanics, describing them as engaging, satisfying, and addictive. They highlighted the variety of weapons, abilities, and ship customization options, allowing players to experiment and create unique loadouts. Critics such as But Why Tho??, CD-Action, and COGconnected specifically commended the combat and looter shooter mechanics, emphasizing the enjoyable flying and shooting mechanics. The game's diverse range of experiences, RPG mechanics, and the sense of discovery were also mentioned positively by critics like CGMagazine, Gamer Escape, and GamingBolt. The gameplay in EVERSPACE 2 was consistently described as fun, robust, and exciting. While the overall sentiment towards the gameplay of EVERSPACE 2 is highly positive, there were a few criticisms raised by some critics. Gamer.no mentioned that the game fails to adequately explain its systems, leaving players to figure things out on their own. IGN Italia and IGN Portugal, while praising the game's unique looter shooter experience, did not provide any specific negatives. IGN, on the other hand, pointed out that the environmental puzzles became repetitive and that the controls were not fine enough for tight maneuvers. These criticisms, however, were in the minority and did not significantly impact the overall positive consensus of the critics. In conclusion, the gameplay of EVERSPACE 2 received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the critics. The combat mechanics, ship customization options, and the addictive nature of the gameplay were consistently praised. The game's looter shooter mechanics, engaging missions, and RPG elements added depth and variety to the gameplay experience. While there were a few minor criticisms regarding the lack of explanation for certain systems and repetitive environmental puzzles, these did not detract from the overall consensus that the gameplay of EVERSPACE 2 was very good. Critics such as GameSkinny, GamingTrend, and The Games Machine highlighted the positive aspects of the gameplay, further supporting the overwhelmingly positive sentiment towards EVERSPACE 2's gameplay.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics rave about EVERSPACE 2's gameplay, praising its engaging combat, diverse customization options, and addictive nature. While some critics noted issues with unexplained systems and repetitive puzzles, the overall consensus remains overwhelmingly positive. The game's looter shooter mechanics, RPG elements, and variety of experiences were particularly highlighted as strengths. Ultimately, EVERSPACE 2's gameplay is described as fun, robust, and exciting by reviewers.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

20%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of EVERSPACE 2 are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praised the stunning visuals and detailed environments of the game. The graphics were described as visually impressive, with handcrafted and vibrant locations, including space stations, temples, and planet landscapes. The game successfully captures the vast emptiness and cosmic beauty of space, with unique assets in each system contributing to a feeling of variety. The explosions, lighting, and particle effects were also commended for their effectiveness in creating an immersive atmosphere. Critics such as COGconnected, Gamer Escape, and PC Gamer specifically highlighted the impressive visuals and variety of locations to explore, including planetary surfaces, space installations, and asteroid belts. The use of comic book-esque illustrations for cutscenes was also praised for its emotional expression and easily digestible format, as mentioned by MMORPG.com and Shacknews. Overall, the positive opinions of the majority of the critics indicate that the graphics and visual design of EVERSPACE 2 were highly regarded. While the majority of critics had positive opinions about the graphics and visual design of EVERSPACE 2, there were a few minor criticisms mentioned. Some critics, such as CGMagazine and Gamer.no, noted that some larger biomes felt devoid of life and lacked interactiveness. The chaotic nature of battles was also mentioned as a potential hindrance to the overall experience by Gamer.no. Additionally, The Games Machine mentioned that while the visual presentation was stunning, some textures lacked detail. These criticisms, however, were relatively minor and did not significantly impact the overall positive sentiment towards the game's graphics and visual design. In conclusion, the overall consensus among the critics is that the Graphics and Visual Design of EVERSPACE 2 are highly impressive and visually stunning. The game's unique blend of science fiction and fantasy elements, along with its handcrafted and detailed locations, received praise from multiple critics. The visuals successfully captured the vast emptiness and cosmic beauty of space, with stunning lighting effects, explosions, and particle effects adding to the immersive experience. While there were some minor criticisms regarding the lack of interactiveness in certain biomes and the detail of some textures, the overwhelmingly positive opinions of the majority of the critics indicate that EVERSPACE 2's graphics and visual design were highly regarded.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics unanimously praise EVERSPACE 2 for its stunning graphics and visual design, lauding the detailed environments, vibrant locations, and immersive space settings. Despite minor critiques about lacking interactivity in some areas and texture details, the majority agree that the game successfully captures the cosmic beauty of space with impressive lighting effects and particle animations. Overall, EVERSPACE 2's graphics are highly regarded for their uniqueness and immersive quality.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

27%

Mixed (50-79)

73%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the sound design and music of EVERSPACE 2 are quite varied. Overall, the majority of critics have positive opinions about the sound design and music, with some specific praises mentioned. COGconnected commends the voice acting in the game, stating that it is generally well done and contributes to the immersive experience. GamingBolt also highlights the excellent sound design, particularly in helping players locate enemies, and praises the thumpy bass-driven synthwave music in the soundtrack. Gamer Escape mentions that the sound design contributes to the immersive atmosphere of the game, and the soundtrack features bass-heavy grooves and synthesized harmonies, with some tracks standing out. However, there are also some negative opinions expressed by a few critics. GameSkinny describes the soundtrack as rather bland techno-pop, and criticizes the limited interactions and generic bad-guy radio chatter. Shacknews mentions that the voice acting in the game is less impressive, with flat delivery that robs the script of its intended effect. Taking into account the opinions of the critics, the overall consensus regarding the sound design and music of EVERSPACE 2 is positive. The majority of critics appreciate the voice acting, sound effects, and music in the game, with specific praises for the immersive atmosphere, excellent sound design, and varied soundtrack. However, there are a few critics who express negative opinions, particularly regarding the blandness of the techno-pop soundtrack and the flat delivery of some voice acting. Nevertheless, the positive opinions outweigh the negative ones, indicating that the sound design and music of EVERSPACE 2 are generally well-received by the critics.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics have mixed opinions on the sound design and music of EVERSPACE 2. Positive feedback includes praise for immersive voice acting, excellent sound design aiding gameplay, and standout synthwave soundtrack. However, some critics find the techno-pop soundtrack bland and voice acting lacking emotion. Overall, the majority of critics appreciate the game's sound design and music, with a few negative points raised.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

36%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in EVERSPACE 2 are generally positive. CGMagazine praises the banter between the protagonist and the cast of characters, highlighting standout performances like Elek, a small bat-like alien. Oyungezer also commends the voice acting, stating that it is well done and adds to the immersion of the game. PC Games specifically mentions that the voice acting for the protagonist is praised for being well done. Screen Rant describes the cast of voice actors as talented, further emphasizing the positive aspects of the voice acting in the game. These positive reviews indicate that the voice acting in EVERSPACE 2 is generally well received and contributes positively to the overall experience. However, there are a few critics who have expressed some negative opinions about the voice acting. Multiplayer.it criticizes the voice acting without providing specific details or examples. Shacknews mentions that the voice acting is less impressive, with flat delivery that robs the script of its intended effect. These negative reviews suggest that there may be some inconsistencies or shortcomings in certain performances, which could potentially detract from the overall quality of the voice acting in the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in EVERSPACE 2 is mostly well done. GamingTrend mentions that the game features over four hours of voice work, bringing the characters and universe to life. PC Gamer highlights the bold stylistic choice of rendering cutscenes in a hand-drawn, stop motion style, which is praised for working well. The Games Machine also mentions that the game features good quality voice acting and a varied cast of characters. While there are a few critics who have raised concerns about bland performances or flat delivery, the majority of opinions lean towards positive, indicating that the voice acting in EVERSPACE 2 is a strong aspect of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics generally praise the voice acting in EVERSPACE 2, highlighting standout performances and immersive banter. While some critics mention inconsistencies or flat delivery in certain performances, the overall consensus is positive, with the majority appreciating the well-done voice work that brings the characters and universe to life.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the technical performance on PC, the critics generally had positive opinions. CD-Action mentioned that the technical state of the game is generally good, with only a few bugs and technical issues. Eurogamer Germany praised the game's excellent technical aspects, highlighting stable performance and high frame rates. GameSkinny also had a positive experience, mentioning decent performance while playing at 4K with high-end hardware. IGN Italia and IGN Portugal both stated that the game runs smoothly on various computers, without any noticeable issues. Multiplayer.it described the game as intelligently developed, effectively masking its limitations. Overall, the critics on PC seemed satisfied with the technical performance, with stable performance and smooth gameplay being the key positives. However, there were some negative aspects mentioned by the critics regarding the technical performance on PC. COGconnected pointed out minor visual glitches and framerate drops, although they acknowledged that extended time in early access helped iron out many of the game's technical issues. GamingTrend mentioned performance issues such as framerate dips and crashes, but expressed hope that these issues would be resolved with updates. The Games Machine also noted occasional frame rate drops in intense scenes. While these negatives were mentioned, they were not deemed as major issues by the critics and did not significantly impact their overall experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics for the technical performance of EVERSPACE 2 on PC is positive. The game was praised for its stable performance, high frame rates, and smooth gameplay. Despite some minor visual glitches, framerate drops, and occasional performance issues in intense scenes, the critics generally found the technical state of the game to be good or excellent. The extended time in early access was seen as beneficial in addressing and improving the game's technical issues. With the positive feedback outweighing the negatives, it can be concluded that the technical performance on PC is generally well-received by the critics.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics generally praise the technical performance of EVERSPACE 2 on PC, highlighting stable performance, high frame rates, and smooth gameplay. Some minor visual glitches and performance issues were noted but not considered major. Overall, the game's technical state is well-received, with extended time in early access helping to address and improve any issues.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

61%

Mixed (50-79)

39%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the positive aspects of the Replay Value of EVERSPACE 2, several critics highlight the game's extensive content and activities. CD-Action mentions that the game offers over 100 hours of playtime, including a substantial main story and side missions. This is further supported by PC Games, who describe the game as having a significant amount of content, including exploration and side quests. The Games Machine adds that completionists can expect 90 hours of gameplay. Additionally, GamingBolt and Screen Rant mention end-game dungeons, a faction system, and distress signals as elements that contribute to the replay value of the game. These features provide players with additional challenges and opportunities to engage with the game beyond the main storyline. On the other hand, there are some negative aspects that critics point out regarding the Replay Value of EVERSPACE 2. Gamer.no expresses disappointment in the lack of variety, which hampers the overall experience. They also mention that the deeper role-playing mechanics could have been better explained, as they are hidden in confusing menus. Oyungezer echoes this sentiment, stating that the game becomes repetitive over time and that side quests lack diversity. IGN Portugal also mentions the issue of new gear quickly becoming outdated, which can affect the longevity of the gameplay experience. SECTOR.sk adds that the game may become repetitive over time, despite offering features like checkpoints and the ability to replay failed battles. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the Replay Value of EVERSPACE 2 is generally positive. The game is praised for its various activities, side quests, and exploration opportunities, which cater to different playstyles and provide hours of gameplay. Critics like CGMagazine and GamingTrend highlight the solid gameplay loop, ship upgrades, and addictive action that keep players engaged. The wide variety of weapons, ship frames, and customization options mentioned by GamingTrend and God is a Geek also contribute to the game's replay value. However, there are some concerns about the lack of variety, repetitive nature, and issues with explaining certain mechanics. Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment is that EVERSPACE 2 offers a satisfying and lengthy adventure with enough content and replayability to keep players engaged for a significant amount of time.

TL;DR

replay value

EVERSPACE 2 impresses with over 100 hours of gameplay, diverse activities, and engaging end-game content like dungeons and factions for high replay value. Critics laud its solid gameplay loop, ship upgrades, and customization options. However, some point out issues with lack of variety, repetitive gameplay, and unclear mechanics. Overall, the game offers a satisfying and lengthy adventure that caters to different playstyles and provides hours of engaging gameplay.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

78%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the overall verdict of EVERSPACE 2, it is clear that the majority of critics had a highly positive view of the game. The game was praised for its compelling story, excellent gameplay, unique visual design, and engaging gameplay loop. Critics such as But Why Tho??, CGMagazine, COGconnected, Gamer Escape, GamingBolt, GamingTrend, God is a Geek, MMORPG.com, PC Gamer, PC Games, Shacknews, SpazioGames, The Games Machine, and TheGamer all expressed their satisfaction with the overall experience of EVERSPACE 2. The positives mentioned by the critics include the captivating narrative, enjoyable gameplay, impressive visuals, and satisfying loot grind. The game was commended for successfully combining looter-shooter mechanics with space combat, providing a deep story, and offering a well-executed science fiction narrative. Critics also appreciated the engaging combat, variety of activities, and the amount of content available in the game. The visuals and graphics were widely praised, with several critics highlighting the stunning visual design and immersive atmosphere of the game. However, there were some criticisms mentioned by a few reviewers. Some critics, such as GameSkinny and IGN, noted a sense of emptiness in the game's world, with a lack of interaction or companionship. IGN Italia and IGN Portugal mentioned weak storylines and character development as drawbacks. Additionally, IGN mentioned repetitive gameplay and a high tolerance for inventory management as potential downsides. Oyungezer pointed out that the game became repetitive and lost its initial excitement over time. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that EVERSPACE 2 is a highly enjoyable space shooter with a compelling story, engaging gameplay, and impressive visuals. The game is praised for its successful combination of looter-shooter mechanics with space combat and its refreshing take on the genre. Critics recommend the game to fans of the series and newcomers alike, highlighting its captivating narrative, satisfying loot grind, and immersive combat experience. While there were some minor flaws mentioned, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority of critics considering EVERSPACE 2 a great experience and a worthy addition to the genre.

TL;DR

EVERSPACE 2 receives glowing reviews for its captivating story, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals from a multitude of critics. While some mention minor drawbacks like a sense of emptiness and repetitive gameplay, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its successful blend of looter-shooter mechanics and space combat. Overall, it's a highly recommended space shooter with a deep narrative that appeals to both fans and newcomers.

CRITIK

Reviews

75 reviews found

GamingTrend

Apr 4, 2023