NEO: The World Ends with You
" Innovative action RPG with strategic real-time combat and rich narrative, but steep learning curve "
NEO: The World Ends with You Review
NEO: The World Ends with You is a bold sequel that returns players to the vibrant streets of Shibuya, focusing on Rindo Kanade's high-stakes survival in the Reapers' Game. The narrative expands the original's universe with themes of identity, choice, and consequence, enriched by well-developed characters and witty dialogue.
The game introduces a revamped real-time, party-based combat system controlling up to four characters, each with unique "pins" that add strategic depth. Visually, it impresses with a stylized anime aesthetic combined with gritty urban realism, capturing Shibuya's energy despite minor camera and field-of-view issues. The soundtrack by Takeharu Ishimoto complements the atmosphere with energetic electronic and rock influences.
While praised for its innovation and immersive world-building, some players find the gameplay's learning curve steep and pacing uneven, with occasional difficulty spikes and repetitive combat. Overall, NEO offers a compelling, challenging action RPG experience that appeals to both fans and newcomers.
Highlights
Players highly praise NEO's inventive real-time combat system that demands strategic resource management and quick thinking.
The game's stylized anime visuals blended with urban realism vividly bring Shibuya to life, enhancing immersion.
The story features sharp writing, nuanced character development, and witty dialogue balancing serious and playful tones.
Takeharu Ishimoto's energetic soundtrack boosts the game's fast-paced action and atmosphere.
Smooth performance on PC with minimal lag is also appreciated by players.
Criticisms
Some players find the combat system's complexity overwhelming initially, especially managing multiple characters and abilities.
The pacing can feel uneven, with certain sections drawn out or repetitive, reducing momentum.
Difficulty spikes throughout the campaign may frustrate newcomers or less experienced action RPG players.
Camera angle issues and limited field of view occasionally hinder navigation and environmental awareness.
Certain plot threads feel rushed or insufficiently explored, leading to narrative unevenness.
Pros
- • Innovative real-time combat with strategic pin combinations enhances gameplay depth and engagement.
- • Vivid and detailed recreation of Shibuya with a distinctive anime and urban art style.
- • Strong narrative with well-developed characters and a balance of humor and serious themes.
- • Energetic and fitting soundtrack by Takeharu Ishimoto elevates the game's atmosphere.
- • Smooth PC performance with minimal lag even during complex combat scenarios.
- • Engaging voice acting that brings characters and world to life.
- • Creative party-based system allowing control of four characters simultaneously.
Cons
- • Steep learning curve due to complexity of managing multiple characters and abilities.
- • Pacing issues with some segments feeling drawn out or repetitive.
- • Difficulty spikes that may frustrate newcomers to action RPGs.
- • Camera angles and limited field of view occasionally hinder navigation.
- • Certain narrative elements feel rushed or insufficiently developed.
- • Combat can become monotonous if relying on limited abilities.
- • Some grind required for achievements may deter casual players.
Rating Criteria
"Only the possibility of you can change our fate" Rindo comes to the grim realization that his life is on the line when he is forced to compete in the so-called "Reapers' Game."