gamrsyde:
Verdict
Simple and entertaining is how we’d best summarize our experience with The Order 1886. It’s bound to disappoint those hyping the game's release but it’s hard to ignore its issues. It’s an aesthetically stunning game that also falls flat thanks to a dearth of content and lack of boldness. By focusing on such a cinematic presentation it feels as if the gameplay often takes a back seat as the game progresses. Had the experience lasted a bit longer perhaps this cinematic approach to design wouldn’t have left such an impression but with so few actual gameplay sequences and little re-playability it does leave us with a sour taste. Yet, despite its flaws and brief run time, we still really enjoyed our time with the game and regretted the sudden onset of the ending. In that sense it almost feels like an extended prologue to a series that may hopefully return for a beefier outing. Hopefully RAD is able to find a better balance between Hollywood and gameplay in the future.
On the up side
+ Visually sublime
+ Endearing, charistmatic characters
+ A tightly controlled narrative
+ Interesting universe
+ Immersive atmosphere
+ Aiming feels just right with a DS4
+ The promise of a sequel
On the down side
- Too short
- Some usability issues
- Little to no replay value
- Lacking challenge – even in hard mode
- Some predictable twists
- The mechanics play it really safe
- Soul Reaver kind of abrupt ending
