Initial release date: August 20, 2024
Genres: Adventure game, Indie game, Fighting game
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows
Developer:Â Red Thread Games
Publishers: Quantic Dream, Spotlight by Quantic Dream
Dustborn is a game that combines genres and ideas, wrapped in apparent messages and viewpoints that don’t exactly nurture subtlety as you play more. However, when stripped down to its core, it is about connection and companionship, as well as the decisions you make along the path. There are QTEs, dialogue choices, music rhythm portions, and some combat, but the best part is seeing how your actions affect the plot in different ways. It’s not ideal, but I enjoyed the experience with my comrades.
The story takes place in a dystopian America after the second civil war. You learn about alternate American history, such as how Jackie Kennedy was shot, not JFK. Following her death, the President of the United States establishes Justice, a division of law enforcement that instills dread in the new Republic of America. As Pax, you and your friends wish to end this oppression and are charged with transporting a critical cargo from RA to Canada.
I initially disliked several of the characters. They have incorrect opinions, which can be tiresome. The issue is not who they are as individuals, but rather how overt their views and message are. It feels as if you’re not smart enough to absorb the message, like you’re being fed every opinion until you’ve had your fill. Fortunately, things calm down and the characters begin to gel more with each new discussion when exposition isn’t happening every few seconds.
When Dustborn has the opportunity to breathe, it performs at its finest. You all communicate very well. You may decide how to respond, whether to interrupt or listen, and what is the best course of action in every given situation. Depending on how you respond, you will influence how your friends perceive you and your relationship, which can lead to some fascinating events during the game. Pax is a strong-willed heroine, and I ultimately warmed to her.
The anecdote exemplifies what is wrong with society today, particularly in America. It’s a vital story to tell, one in which fascists gain power and people who resist them are heard. In Dustborn, the voices are known as Vox, a particular talent possessed by Anomals that allows them to change people’s minds. Pax can have a detrimental impact on others with her words, whilst some can gaslight and even provoke others around them. It’s obvious, but it makes sense given the game’s rules. Pax’s Vox skills can also be used in combat scenarios, but I thought fighting to be the least entertaining aspect of it.
Pax will use her baseball bat to whack at adversaries or hurl like a boomerang, although I always thought these portions were arbitrary. Dustborn accomplishes a variety of things, but it is at its best when it comes to interactions and learning about your characters through the power of communication. Some areas will play music that demands you to press the correct button at the right moment, but they feel like they were included for the purpose of it. They’re not horrible, just not as enjoyable as I had thought.
Dustborn’s cel-shaded visuals are a fantastic comic book art style that adds to its appeal. From the way discussions play out to the cutscenes, everything looks fantastic. I would always linger on specific scenes to take them all in, and there is rarely a moment when you don’t want to look about and appreciate the surroundings. The music is also excellent, with unique tunes that complement both the makeshift band and the tale. Dustborn has a lot going for it, with character development taking the lead. Going from a ragtag group of punk rock activists to folks I care about is usually done with considerable care and consideration.
Dustborn explores the power of words and, conversely, the power of disinformation. We live in a hazardous world, but what we say can actually make a difference. In the last ten years, there has been a shift in how misinformation spreads, particularly via social media. Dustborn conveys an essential message, but it also bombards you with it whenever possible. It has to stop winking at you through the screen every few times and tone down its analogies. Despite this, I enjoyed traveling throughout a damaged America with Pax and her pals.
Review Overview
Gameplay: 81%
Story: 85%
Aesthetics: 88%
Content: 79%
Accessibility: 83%
Value: 80%
Overall Rating: 83%
Very Good
Summary: Dustborn impresses with its narrative-driven gameplay, offering a compelling story that blends social commentary with character-driven plotlines. The gameplay mechanics are unique and engaging, though they can feel repetitive at times. Aesthetically, the game shines with its striking art style and memorable character designs. While the content is rich and varied, some players might crave more depth or additional side quests. Accessibility is well-handled, with intuitive controls and options for different playstyles. Overall, Dustborn delivers a very good experience, especially for those who enjoy story-focused games.