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République Review—An Episodic Orwellian Game Has You Retaliate Against a Tyrannical Empire’s Control

4K View2022-01-20

Reading Time: 2 min 59 secs

Never have I ever delved into a stealth mobile game, yet République has changed everything, and it all began with a plea for help.

In a short lapse of time, I was first greeted by a close-up shot of a petrified fugitive girl whispering clandestinely to me about being "erased."

It seems that her name is Hope.

Yet, I have no bloody clue why and how she is able to get hold of me, a disembodied hacker. I cannot tell where her whereabouts is at this juncture, but I do know that she is frightened, and everything has somehow gone horribly wrong.

Not from the account by some omniscient narrator, but instead, through my mobile device, which acts as a window into her world. What's more, I can even utilise it to remotely access security cameras, watch Hope's back as she sneaks past guards, and answer her phone calls in her attempt to escape an establishment called Metamorphosis.

Through the usage of security cameras, Developer Camouflaj assigns me the task of scouting areas and guiding Hope to safety. Wouldn't you agree that it's a refreshing approach to stealth?

There, she takes cover, retrieves items, and gets around dystopian locales with one-touch commands—Something that you would deem to be an intuitive yet slow-paced system. Be that as it may, the exploration aspect is more often than not gratifying since you will be engaging in so much more.

As I savour moments of quiet tension (which I simply adored), it dawns on me that the game is teeming with nods towards Orwellian dystopia and literal references to literary classics and indie games. Even so, I can't resist desiring that the next adjacent room be open for exploring as I look forward to every room in République that has fascinating things to say.

When it comes to the broader story and lore, much of it is delivered through strewn audio logs and notes. Still, Camouflaj does a remarkable job of establishing the plot intrigue effectively within minutes, thanks to compelling character performances and brilliant world-building.

Much like BioShock's audio diaries and Metal Gear Solid's codec conversations, Camouflaj's way of storytelling in République also dabbles in loads of start-and-stop bits, which you may find tiresome. However, in my case, I simply embraced the opportunity of seeking out additional content to satisfy my thirst for knowledge of the world.

In any case, my main gripe with République is how the game forces you to be acquiescent with its Resident-Evil-esque backtracking and short supplies of resources (especially when it locks you out of numerous areas earlier on).

For folks like me who love exposing conspiracies within conspiracies and want to have a hand at unravelling something incredible, this game is a great way to fill that void. With its stunning art style and mystifying extravaganza, there is no doubt that the game will blow you away.

At this rate, all mystery nerds would be running out of reasons not to give République a go. But don't take my word for it—head over here and try it out for yourself today! Don't dally now, as Hope needs your help!

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