Westboro
" Dark cyberpunk action RPG with immersive tactical combat but stiff, unresponsive controls "
Westboro Review
Westboro is an indie isometric action-RPG with a dark cyberpunk atmosphere, set in a dystopian future where a global corporation controls scarce water resources. Players control one of three mercenaries and engage in real-time combat with RPG elements like skill trees and character progression. The game offers a unique combat system involving mouse-only controls, active abilities, and tactical positioning.
Critics praise its visuals, sound design, and immersive atmosphere, alongside enjoyable gunplay and a decent soundtrack. However, the controls are widely described as stiff, unresponsive, and awkward, making combat frustrating. The lack of a save system during missions, limited stealth mechanics, and repetitive level design further impact the experience. While the story and RPG depth are present, they are considered limited and sometimes poorly conveyed. Overall, the game shows promise with interesting ideas but suffers from execution issues, making it best suited for fans of the genre willing to overlook flaws or those seeking a bargain purchase.
Highlights
Players particularly appreciate Westboro's dark, immersive cyberpunk atmosphere and detailed graphics. The soundtrack and sound effects receive strong praise for enhancing the mood. The combat mechanics involving tactical gunplay, skill usage, and character progression are engaging once mastered. The presence of multiple characters with distinct starting skills and the inclusion of RPG elements like leveling and skill trees add depth. The game's unique isometric perspective combined with a bodycam view and strategic map usage also stand out positively.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game's stiff and unresponsive controls, which hamper fluid combat and movement. The lack of a proper save/checkpoint system frustrates players, forcing restarts on death. The limited stealth mechanics and poor enemy AI reduce tactical options. Level design is often described as repetitive, with many similar-looking areas and endless enemy waves. The story and RPG depth are seen as minimal and sometimes confusing due to poor writing and localization. Additionally, the camera limits visibility, and inventory/item management can be tedious.
Pros
- • Dark, immersive cyberpunk atmosphere with detailed environments and models.
- • Excellent soundtrack and sound design enhancing the game mood.
- • Engaging tactical combat with varied weapons and active abilities.
- • Multiple characters with distinct skills and RPG progression.
- • Unique isometric perspective with bodycam and strategic map features.
- • Runs smoothly and is stable with few reported bugs.
- • Reasonably priced, especially attractive on sale.
Cons
- • Controls are stiff, unresponsive, and difficult to master.
- • No saving during missions and limited checkpoint system frustrates players.
- • Repetitive level design with similar environments and endless enemy spawns.
- • Enemy AI is poor; enemies often ignore player actions or shoot each other.
- • Limited stealth mechanics with no view cones or meaningful takedowns.
- • Camera restricts visibility with limited rotation and small viewport.
- • Inventory management and item pickups are tedious and hard to spot.
Rating Criteria
2039. Water is no longer environmentally sustainable supply. The complicated and unstable situation resulted in violent uprisings among themiddle-class across the globe. The world approaches its first week in state of emergency...