Review: The Invincible

Developer – Starward Industries

Publisher – 11 Bit Studios

Platforms –  PS5 , Xbox Series S|X , PC (Reviewed)

Review copy given by Publisher

The Invincible stands as an exceptional narrative-driven sci-fi adventure, marking the debut title of Starward Industries. Drawing its inspiration from Stanisław Lem’s 1964 novel of the same name, the game diverges from tradition by introducing its own protagonist, Yasna, in lieu of the book’s main character, Rohan. This audacious decision sets the stage for an enthralling gaming experience that adeptly melds elements from titles like Firewatch and Road 96, solidifying its status as a standout addition to the world of interactive storytelling.

In The Invincible, players embody Yasna, a courageous scientist propelled by relentless curiosity, who becomes entangled in a cosmic race between two factions, ultimately leading her to the enigmatic planet Regis III. Amid the seemingly desolate world of Regis III, Yasna’s mission to rescue her missing crew hinges on radio communication with her astrogator, Novik. As she uncovers scientific phenomena defying human comprehension and the limits of physics, the game becomes a profound test of Yasna’s beliefs, knowledge, and understanding. Every player choice impacts Yasna’s journey, either bringing her closer to safety or danger amidst the mysterious landscapes of Regis III. Her lifeline to the outside world remains her radio conversations with Novik, whose guidance proves invaluable in challenging situations.

Yasna’s character is one the major highlights of the game. She is a complex and relatable protagonist, with a depth of personality that evolves based on player choices. Her wit, courage, and curiosity make her a character players can genuinely invest in, and her journey becomes all the more immersive as a result.

One of the game’s standout features is its mission, which boasts a retrofuturistic design inspired by 1950s visions of the future. The philosophical ideas embedded within the game resonate with the essence of Stanisław Lem’s work, ensuring that players encounter intellectual challenges throughout their journey. Atompunk tools serve to enhance immersion, and players will grapple with significant, story-shaping choices as Yasna’s narrative unfolds.

The Invincible stands out not only for its unique narrative and philosophical depth but also for its 11 different endings. In a medium where novels traditionally conclude with a single ending, the game dares to tread new ground, granting players the power to mold Yasna’s destiny and the story’s outcome. This multiplicity of endings adds substantial replayability and depth to the gaming experience, encouraging players to undertake multiple playthroughs to explore the various narrative paths and uncover diverse facets of the story.

The Invincible challenges players to reconsider humanity’s ambitions and biases as they navigate a world populated by robots, people, and other mysterious beings on Regis III. The choices made regarding interactions with these entities carry profound consequences, blurring the lines between friend, companion, and enemy.

The atompunk atmosphere lends a unique and immersive quality to the game. Employing various tools such as telemeters and trackers and maneuvering vehicles through the stunning landscape create a sense of realism and engagement with analog technologies within a retro-futuristic timeline.

Beyond its narrative depth and branching storylines, The Invincible also excels in world-building. The developers have meticulously crafted the eerie landscapes of Regis III, showcasing their attention to detail and commitment to creating an immersive environment. The planet feels both alien and strangely familiar, thanks to its retrofuturistic design and atompunk elements. Players will find themselves lost in the otherworldly beauty of the game’s setting, which complements the narrative’s philosophical depth.

The game’s adherence to the philosophical ideas of Stanisław Lem is a testament to its dedication to capturing the essence of the original novel. As you progress through the game, you’ll encounter thought-provoking dialogues and scenarios that challenge your beliefs and provoke introspection. Yasna’s journey isn’t just about saving her crew; it’s a philosophical exploration of the unknown, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and understanding.

The Invincible also excels in creating a palpable sense of tension and suspense. The communication with Novik through the radio adds an element of isolation and uncertainty. The desolation of Regis III is both haunting and beautiful, and players will feel a constant sense of unease as they navigate its enigmatic terrain.

The game’s reliance on player choices is a refreshing departure from the linear narratives of traditional novels. It allows players to shape Yasna’s character and destiny, making each playthrough a unique experience. This diversity of outcomes ensures that The Invincible has significant replay value, with players eager to discover all the different endings and see how their decisions impact the story.

In addition to its rich narrative, The Invincible boasts impressive gameplay mechanics. The use of atompunk tools and analogue technologies in a retro-futuristic timeline creates a sense of tactile engagement with the game world. Whether you’re operating a telemeter or driving a vehicle, the game ensures that your interactions feel grounded and realistic, despite the otherworldly setting.

The Invincible is a remarkable gaming experience that seamlessly blends a gripping narrative, profound philosophical themes, and impactful player choices. Its adherence to the spirit of Stanisław Lem’s work and its unique approach to multiple endings set it apart in the gaming landscape. If you’re in search of a thought-provoking sci-fi adventure that challenges your beliefs and offers numerous narrative possibilities, The Invincible is a must-play. It showcases the potential of video games to provide diverse and intellectually stimulating conclusions within an engaging story while delivering a visually stunning and immersive world to explore.