RoboCop: Rogue City brings back the legendary cybernetic officer in a way that feels both fresh and nostalgic. As a longtime fan of the original films, I was excited to step into the role of Alex Murphy and patrol the crime-ridden streets of Detroit. Developed by Teyon and published by Nacon, this first-person shooter isn’t just another action game; it’s an experience that fully immerses players in the world of RoboCop. From the moment I started playing, it was clear that the developers put in serious effort to capture the essence of the original 1987 film. The atmosphere, the dialogue, and even the movement all feel authentic, as if I had been transported directly into that gritty dystopian world.
One of the first things I noticed about the game was how it embraced RoboCop’s deliberate movement. Unlike other first-person shooters that emphasize speed and agility, this game makes you feel like an unstoppable force. There’s no sprinting, no vaulting over obstacles, no quick dodging—just the heavy, methodical pace of a mechanical enforcer who doesn’t need to rush. I actually appreciated this design choice because it reinforced the feeling of power. When I aimed Auto-9 pistol at an enemy, it wasn’t about reflex shooting; it was about precision and force. The gunplay is satisfying, especially with the environmental destruction that allows for creative combat moments. Watching enemies fly across a room after a well-placed shot never got old.
Beyond the shooting mechanics, I found myself enjoying the investigative aspects of the game. Unlike typical action shooters, this one allows RoboCop to analyze crime scenes, gather evidence, and make decisions that affect the world around him. These moments provide a welcome break from combat and make the game feel more immersive. The choice-based system also adds depth to the experience. I had to decide whether to play strictly by the book or take a more aggressive approach to justice. The consequences of these choices were felt throughout the game, influencing how citizens and law enforcement viewed RoboCop’s role in the city. It wasn’t just about taking down criminals; it was about deciding what kind of enforcer I wanted to be.
The story sits between the events of RoboCop 2 and RoboCop 3, creating a new narrative that still feels true to the franchise. Detroit is in chaos, overrun with crime, and as expected, OCP is deeply involved in some shady dealings. The new villainous group, the Torch Heads, provides a fresh challenge, and there are plenty of nods to the classic films that long-time fans will appreciate. I particularly enjoyed the inclusion of Peter Weller, who reprises his role as RoboCop’s voice. His performance adds to the authenticity, making it feel like a natural continuation of the original movies rather than just another adaptation.
Visually, the game does a great job of bringing Detroit to life. The environments are dark and gritty, with neon lights reflecting off rain-slicked streets, capturing the film’s aesthetic perfectly. The lighting and atmospheric effects make each area feel alive, whether it’s the crime-infested back alleys or the towering corporate offices filled with corruption. The character models are detailed, though there are moments where animations feel a little stiff, but overall, it never detracted from my enjoyment. The sound design also deserves praise, especially when it comes to RoboCop’s movements. Every step has a mechanical weight to it, and the sound of Auto-9 firing.
Performance-wise, I didn’t run into any major issues while playing on a PS5 Pro. The game runs smoothly, and even during intense combat sequences, I never experienced significant frame drops. There were a few minor glitches, such as enemies occasionally getting stuck in awkward positions, but nothing game-breaking. The developers seem committed to patching issues as they arise. For anyone who has been waiting for a truly RoboCop game, this is it. It doesn’t try to turn RoboCop into something he’s not, and that’s what makes it work. The game’s methodical pacing, heavy combat, and immersive storytelling make it stand out from other shooters. It rewards players who appreciate precision and decision-making rather than relying on fast reflexes. The balance between action and detective work gives it a unique feel, making every mission feel like more than just a simple shootout.
After spending hours patrolling the streets of Detroit, I can confidently say that RoboCop: Rogue City is a must-play for fans of the franchise. It captures everything that made the character iconic while delivering a solid gameplay experience that stands on its own. Whether you’re drawn in by the nostalgia or just looking for a first-person shooter with a different approach, this game delivers. It’s not perfect, but it’s the closest thing to stepping into RoboCop’s metallic frame that I’ve ever played.
