This game is a lot of fun, so why only 3 stars? It's not tight fun, it's clumsy fun. You never feel like you have really good control over your character. It makes for chaotic movement which is probably the intention, but doesn't make you feel like the John Wick you want to be. But what really takes it down are some very annoying and frustrating levels starting with level 28. These levels deviate and sometimes break the game rules you've gotten used to over 27 other levels. - enemies that auto-grab you for 50% damage, even when you've just gotten up from being knocked down - a vehicle mission where you cannot dodge attacks (unlike previous ones where you could) - helicopter fire that enemies do not have to dodge, but you do (previous external fire always hurt enemies, too) The aforementioned issues really make things annoying and put a sour taste in my mouth that put me on edge regarding the rest of the levels. Overall, the majority of this game is fun, but those few thorns are seriously frustrating.
First, the good - great acting - great art direction Now, the bad. I do not believe I've ever controlled a more ineffectual character in a game. Mechanically, he moves so goddamn slowly, it makes it a literal slog to get through. There are story reasons for this, but you can spruce it up with creative cuts and something happening internally during it. Additionally, this game is a like an interactive movie. I knew that going in, but this is beyond ridiculous. It's like the opposite of player agency. Literal visual novels feel like they give you more agency than this. The game lets you decide how to respond to things, but the main character does it in the most milquetoast way I've ever seen. I understand that's his character, but when the only choices are taken from you, it's a betrayal of developer to player. I think people give this game a pass because of the creative artistry of it and its non-standard story. But honestly, if it was a movie, I'd be yelling at the screen. Instead, I'm quietly hating the character as I continue to press up on the analog stick.
