Game Cover

The market is under a critical juncture and the war is ruining between the corporations.

Platform played on: Xbox 360

# Review

In the 2012 reboot of the Syndicate series of real-time tactics games, the story takes place in a cyberpunk world during the year 2069 where large corporations run everything. The player assumes the role of Miles, an agent employed by EuroCorp. Miles participates in acts of corporate espionage and sabotage on behalf of his employer.

Corporate warfare

One would think that it’s weird to reboot a real-time tactics game as a first-person shooter, and I would agree. The fans of the original Syndicate series were confused about the direction of the game while new players (such as myself) didn’t understand the significance of the franchise until reading about the background.

The setting of the story is very cool, with futuristic cyberpunk aesthetics. The background lore, such as most humans having chips embedded in their brains (starting in 2025!) is very interesting and translated well to in-game mechanics. The story itself is a tad corny and predictable, although I did enjoy the performances of Michael Wincott, Rosario Dawson, and Brian Cox. The game’s soundtrack of electronic music, featuring the likes of Skrillex, is also pretty awesome.

Cyberpunk setting

The actual gameplay is pretty slick and polished. I liked the fast-paced nature of the game and the tactical feel of the weapons. The novel gameplay features which includes an overlay to see through walls and abilities to hack enemies is pretty cool. The movement of the game also feels very smooth.

Cool abilities

The game does get repetitive, even on higher difficulties, but it is fun when playing with friends in co-op. The AI is very formulaic and predictable, making them easy to exploit. The graphics are pretty solid, considering the aging hardware the game was developed for. The bloom effects can be a tad much, though.

Playing in co-op

# Conclusion

A bit generic but definitely a hidden gem.

# Overall rating: 7.5

What does the rating mean?

# DLC Reviews

There are no DLCs for the game except for a preorder bonus.

# The Executive Package

This DLC just gives access to in-game cosmetics; namely, it makes many assets such as weapons, gold. There is no real gameplay value but its gaudiness fits well with the game's tone.

# Overall rating: 7.0