Shadowrun Returns is a cyberpunk RPG that takes place in a dystopian future where magic and technology coexist. Players create their own character with a range of customization options, including choosing races and classes, cybernetic implants, magic spells, and weaponry. The game offers a turn-based combat system that requires tactical decision-making and features cover, concealment, and other strategic elements. The deeply-engaging, story-driven campaign offers numerous quests and activities that allow players to explore the rich and detailed world. Shadowrun Returns is a must-play for anyone who loves cyberpunk or RPGs.

Shadowrun Returns: A Cyberpunk RPG with a Twist

Introduction

Shadowrun Returns is a cyberpunk role-playing game developed by Harebrained Schemes and published by Paradox Interactive. The game is set in a dystopian future, where magic and technology coexist, creating a unique and distinct setting for players to explore. The game features a highly customized character creation system, turn-based combat, and a deep, story-driven campaign that offers players numerous choices, influencing the world they live in.

The Setting

The game is set in a dark and gritty version of Seattle in the year 2054, where technology has advanced to the point that humans can have cybernetic enhancements that make them faster, stronger, and more resilient, while magic has re-emerged, allowing for magic spells, spirits, and creatures. The game world is a mix of neon-soaked streets, where corporate interests clash with criminal gangs and shadowy organizations. The player takes the role of a shadowrunner, a mercenary who is hired to carry out various missions for different clients, including stealing data, retrieving items, or eliminating targets, often involving high-stakes risks and dangerous consequences.

The Character Creation System

One of the unique features of Shadowrun Returns is its character creation system. Players have the option to create their own character, choosing from a variety of races, including humans, dwarves, elves, trolls, and orks, each with distinct skills and abilities. Players can also choose between different classes, each with its own set of skills and weapon proficiencies, such as mage, street samurai, decker, and shaman. The game also features an extensive system for outfitting and customizing their character with a range of cybernetic implants, magic spells, and weaponry.

The Turn-Based Combat

Shadowrun Returns features a turn-based combat system, where players take turns controlling their characters, using weapons, magic, and abilities to defeat enemies. The game allows players to use cover, concealment, and strategy to overcome enemies, with each encounter offering unique challenges and opportunities. Players can also hire additional team members to join them on missions, each with their own set of skills and abilities, allowing for a range of different playstyles and approaches to combat.

The Story and Choices

The game’s campaign is a deeply engaging, story-driven experience that offers players numerous choices and paths to take. Players take on the role of a shadowrunner who is investigating a friend’s death and uncovers a far-reaching conspiracy that threatens the entire city. As the story progresses, players are faced with numerous choices that influence the outcome of the game, from deciding how to handle different clients and adversaries to deciding the fate of key characters. The game also features a range of side quests and activities that allow players to explore the rich and detailed world of Shadowrun Returns further.

Conclusion

Shadowrun Returns is a unique and engaging cyberpunk RPG that offers players a rich and detailed world to explore, numerous customization options for their character, a turn-based combat system that allows for tactical decision-making, and a deep, story-driven campaign full of choices and consequences. The game’s blend of magic and technology creates a unique and memorable setting that is sure to captivate players who love cyberpunk, RPGs, or both. If you’re looking for a game that offers a thrilling, immersive experience, then Shadowrun Returns is a must-play.