Recs.
Updated
Transistor is an isometric view cyberpunk RPG developed and published by Supergiant Games.
The main gameplay consists of action RPG mechanics where the player battles enemies in a series of sci-fi themed locations while slowly earning experience that can be used to upgrade the players abilities, which in turn allow the player to advance through the game.
Specs
Pros
Pro Complex, but simple, customization gives much to imagination and strategy
Throughout the game, you get these abilities, called Functions(), that are modular in design.
They can be used in one of three ways:
Active(): The activated version, or the base version. You use the Slash function, you slash. You can have up to four of these.
Upgrade(): Use the current Function on an Active one. You can stack two upgrades on a single Active. Stacking the Slash() function on a Laser() will cause the Laser to now cut people in half. If you stack the Heal() function on it too, you now also get health back.
Passive(): These usually only effect the protagonist, Red, and are not activated manually (although some activate an effect upon receiving damage).
Put Get() with Bounce(), you now have an attack that will shoot a bullet that bounces to nearby enemies and pulls (gets) all the enemies hit to you. Add a stun upgrade, like Crash(), and you now have a pile of sleeping enemies in front of you. You can now hit them all with a massive explosion.
The game can be beat with simple combos that don't require much setup or strategy, but it definitely rewards you for good thinking.
Pro Awesome turn based + real time gameplay
Transistor is primarily a hack & slash style action RPG, but has an interesting twist in that you can pause time to plan out your next moves. This ability gives Transistor an element of strategy to the core battle mechanics as well as fluid gameplay.
Pro Engrossing atmosphere
The plot, art-style & the soundtrack come together to make a very atmospheric game that does a great job at drawing you into the world. From the design each stage an its beautiful cyberpunk sprawl to the intricate look of the enemies it is difficult to no be enveloped by the atmosphere of the game.
Pro Beautiful soundtrack that adds to the story
All of the singing done in the soundtrack is done with Red's own voice. Many of the lyrics are full of foreshadowing and can be very emotional to listen to.
Transistor has an interesting concept of modifying the music based off of when you're taking your "Turn()" or not, causing the lyrics to be Red's humming, and distracting sounds to be calm bass lines.
Considering your Turn() consists of much trial and error, the calming music helps to keep you focused while the time outside of your Turn() is mostly about avoiding danger.
The contrast gives a sense of tension between the times when YOU'RE in control vs. when THEY are.