When it comes to the concept of titles like Bioshock, Prey, and the latest Atomic Heart – it all originated from one series. And even more coining this new subgenre as ‘Shock Games’ was System Shock. Originally, the IP launched on PC more than three decades ago and followed the sequels as well. And although this series – alike many other first-person experiences – eventually evolved onto being primarily enjoyed for console players.

Now come this year, 2023 is to offer System Shock Remake: a complete reimagining of the classic title for the latest PC machines. Not to mention the plans including console ports as well as part of post-launch plans. At PAX East in Boston, Massachusetts this month, Rectify Gaming obtained a hands-on build of the game to soak in how developer Night Dive Studios is delivering the cult-classic to the current market.

Off the bat, the visual choices for System Shock Remake is certainly the most radical change. Purely enticing graphics and rendering captures the layered atmosphere of this deep space novel. Even more, the game’s use of lighting and real-time raytracing furthers this experinece as you delve deeper into the title. As for combat – it packs a punch from what we endured.

To be blunt: the build only explored introductory melee encounters as you explore the twisted, cyberware playground of Shodan. However, versatility is key when it comes to overcoming foes and moreover keeps the player on the edge of their seat. At least on the PC build we sampled, the performance of the game illustrated to be substantial for an effective experinece. However, it will leave a large question as to how co soles will handle the game; especially last-generation Xbox One & PlayStation 4.

While players are likely accustomed to the greater story of System Shock, the Remake does a good job establishing this with lingering audio tapes to listen as you uncover the true events prior to the game. Of course, progression does most of the storytelling for the game as you play meeting essential, pivotal moments exploring, bit for the sake of the demo System Shock Remake does a fine job establishing itself for lore fans and players interested to explore.

You can wishlist System Shock Remake on the official Steam page by heading here.

System Shock Remake arrives on May 30, 2023 for PC.