Shadowrun Returns Review (newtmonkey)
Short but sweet, and a great introduction to the Shadowrun universe
Shadowrun Returns is a linear party-based RPG with "tactical" style turn based combat taking place in the Shadowrun universe, which is cyberpunk mixed with fantasy elements (elves, dragons, etc.). It's a fun setting, and the game does a great job at introducing it.
What's immediately striking about the game is the excellent soundtrack and wonderful hand-painted backgrounds and character portraits. These all come together to set a great mood. Less impressive are the 3D models for characters and enemies, but they get the job done.
The game is extremely linear, with you being taken from one mission to the next with a small base of operations to visit in between missions, where you can purchase equipment and hire the rest of your team. There really aren't that many options for equipment, so you quickly end up getting top level gear halfway through the game. Luckily, the game is paced quite well with experience point ("karma") rewards during and after missions, so you won't be maxing anything out until the very end of the game (especially if you are playing as a hybrid class).
The combat works fine and is "tactical" in the sense that you have more options in battle than in most other RPGs. You can take cover behind things for defense bonuses, select different fire modes for your guns, and make use of all sorts of spells including summons. Having said that, combat is not very difficult at all on the default difficulty level, and it's mostly enough to just stay in cover and make sure to reload whenever you have a chance.
There is a heavy focus on story and dialog, though the text is generally well-written and not overly verbose. I enjoyed the story, but it will all depend on whether you find the unique setting to be fun or too goofy to take seriously. What's even better, is that certain dialog options will only be available if you have spent enough points in certain attributes/skills. It would probably be fun to replay the game as a totally different type of character.
Although I enjoyed the game, there were a few things I didn't like.
I don't mind a linear game, but I do wish you had the choice of doing some optional missions in between story missions. I was also unpleasantly surprised at how few equipment upgrades there are; I continued to use my starting shotgun for nearly half the game, and only upgraded to a better one for the last couple of missions.
Having said that, these are only minor complaints for what is overall an enjoyable little game. The sequels are apparently much bigger games with lots of optional content, so I'm definitely looking forward to them. Highly recommended, especially if you find the setting and theme to be interesting.