Transience

Transience is a tactical FPS with a clear passion behind its development, aiming to evoke the feel of classic stealth shooters with modern gunplay and a moody cyberpunk atmosphere. Players appreciate the detailed weapon animations, solid gunplay mechanics, and immersive sound design. The game offers a mix of stealth and run-and-gun approaches, with a narrative told through comic-style cutscenes and voice acting. However, many players found the AI inconsistent and sometimes broken, which impacts stealth viability and combat challenge. The story and protagonist's constant commentary received mixed reactions, often cited as detracting from immersion.

Graphically, the game employs a semi-cell-shaded style that some find charming while others see as dated or inconsistent. Performance varies, with some reporting frame drops in complex scenes. Level design is generally linear but with occasional verticality and exploration options. While the game demonstrates impressive ambition for a small indie team, players agree it needs further polish and AI improvements to fully realize its potential.

Highlights

Gameplay mechanics receive praise for their tactical depth, smooth and weighty gunplay, and versatile combat options. The attachment system and interactive environments add layers of customization and engagement.

The graphics and art style create a distinct atmosphere blending cell-shading with realistic lighting, contributing to a moody cyberpunk vibe. The comic-style cutscenes and well-crafted HUD enhance storytelling.

The storyline and world-building have potential, with some players drawn into the narrative and characters, appreciating the homage to classic noir and tactical shooters.

Criticisms

AI behavior is the most commonly criticized aspect, described as inconsistent, sometimes broken, and lacking situational awareness. Enemies either ignore stealth actions or have unfair accuracy and detection, undermining tactical gameplay.

Stealth mechanics are seen as underdeveloped or unreliable, with issues like sleep darts recharging slowly and enemies spotting players unrealistically in darkness.

Performance and optimization problems include frame rate drops and occasional bugs, such as getting stuck or graphical glitches. The protagonist's constant dialogue and some voice acting are considered distracting.

Level design is often linear and repetitive, with limited tactical variety in early missions. Some graphical assets and textures are perceived as low quality or inconsistent.