Sleeping Dogs: Definitive Edition

Developer: United Front Games
Release: Oct 8th 2014
Platforms:
Action
Adventure
Racing
Addictive
Cinematic
Immersive
Cultural
Driving
Sleeping Dogs: Definitive Edition Poster

" Engaging open-world action-adventure with fluid martial arts combat but stiff driving mechanics "

Sleeping Dogs: Definitive Edition Review

Sleeping Dogs: Definitive Edition is widely praised as a vibrant open-world action-adventure game set in a richly detailed Hong Kong. Players assume the role of Wei Shen, an undercover cop infiltrating the Triads, which delivers a mature and compelling narrative filled with loyalty struggles and emotional depth. The game seamlessly blends hand-to-hand martial arts combat with gunplay and driving, offering fluid and cinematic gameplay that stands out from typical GTA clones.

The Definitive Edition enhances the original with improved graphics, additional DLC content, and a dynamic city atmosphere that immerses players in neon-lit streets and bustling markets. While the driving mechanics and some mission designs receive minor criticism for stiffness and repetitiveness, the overall experience remains highly engaging. The combat system, inspired by martial arts cinema, allows for satisfying combos and environmental interactions. The game’s audio and soundtrack further enrich the cultural authenticity and mood, making it a must-play for fans of crime dramas and action games.

Highlights

Players consistently praise the game's engaging martial arts combat system, which is fluid, brutal, and cinematic.

The storyline is lauded for its depth, emotional weight, and mature handling of undercover cop themes, with strong voice acting and memorable characters.

Graphically, the Definitive Edition's improved textures and lighting bring Hong Kong to life, creating an authentic and atmospheric urban playground.

The open-world design, combined with diverse side activities and a culturally rich soundtrack, further enhances the immersive gameplay experience.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the driving mechanics, which many find stiff, clumsy, or arcade-like, detracting from immersion.

Some players note mission repetitiveness and filler side content, especially in drug busts and certain side activities.

Minor bugs and occasional camera issues were reported but generally do not break gameplay.

The shooting mechanics feel less polished compared to combat, and some wish for more weapon variety or online modes.

Additionally, some players found the story pacing rushed in parts and desired more romance or expanded side content.

Pros

  • Engaging and fluid martial arts combat system with environmental interactions.
  • Compelling and mature undercover cop storyline with emotional depth.
  • Authentic and vibrant depiction of Hong Kong’s urban environment.
  • Improved graphics and lighting in the Definitive Edition enhance immersion.
  • Strong voice acting and well-written characters enrich the narrative.
  • Diverse side missions and activities that complement the main story.
  • Culturally rich soundtrack that fits the game’s atmosphere perfectly.

Cons

  • Driving mechanics are often stiff, clumsy, and less enjoyable.
  • Some mission designs and side content feel repetitive and filler.
  • Minor bugs and camera issues occasionally disrupt gameplay.
  • Shooting mechanics lack polish compared to hand-to-hand combat.
  • Lack of online mode or multiplayer features limits replayability.
  • Story pacing can feel rushed, with underdeveloped romance elements.
  • Achievements and some game mechanics can be buggy or inconsistent.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

The Definitive Edition of the critically acclaimed, award winning open-world action adventure, reworked, rebuilt and re-mastered for the new generation. With all previously available DLC included and a wealth of tech and visual improvements, Hong Kong has never felt so alive.

Release Date Oct 8th 2014
Publisher Square Enix, Feral Interactive (Mac)
Developer United Front Games, Feral Interactive (Mac)
Required Age 17+
Platforms

User Reviews

Overwhelmingly Positive (25,851)
96% Positive 4% Negative