System Crash

System Crash is a single-player cyberpunk-themed deck-building card game that combines strategic card battles with an engaging narrative. Players assume the role of a runner navigating a dystopian future filled with corporate espionage and cyberwarfare. The gameplay is accessible, with an "easy to learn, hard to master" approach, offering a variety of cards and tactical depth. The game features a well-written, albeit somewhat formulaic, cyberpunk story enriched by strong world-building and atmospheric art and music. Players can build and customize decks from factions like Runners, Anarchists, Yakuza, and more, facing AI opponents with different strategies. The campaign is lengthy, with multiple playthroughs needed for full completion, and includes DLC expansions that add new campaigns and content. Despite minor bugs and some pacing issues, the game delivers a rewarding experience for fans of card games and cyberpunk settings, especially those seeking a single-player focus without microtransaction pressures.

Highlights

Players praise the game's engaging card battle mechanics that balance simplicity with strategic depth, allowing diverse deck-building options. The cyberpunk atmosphere is well-realized through stunning artwork, evocative character portraits, and a fitting soundtrack that enhances immersion. The storyline, while familiar in its genre tropes, is noted for its solid writing and contributes to the overall experience. The game's tutorial and UI are accessible, enabling players of varying skill levels to enjoy the gameplay. Additionally, the single-player campaign and expansions provide substantial content and replayability, making it a standout in the single-player card game market.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include a somewhat repetitive and overly long campaign that can feel like a slog due to repeated battles and limited card variety over time. The progression system is seen as stingy early on, requiring grinding to acquire desired cards and build effective decks. Some players note the AI can be predictable or occasionally cheat, and the lack of multiplayer is a downside for those seeking PvP. The UI has minor usability issues, such as inconsistent card stat placement and limited deck-building filters. Additionally, the story choices lack meaningful impact, and the game suffers from occasional bugs that require restarts but are not game-breaking.