Video Games Review - Deus Ex: Human Revolution

Deus Ex: HR is a stylish, sophisticated and intelligent game that encourages the player to refrain from the linear style of gameplay that typically dictates on rails mentality of most current FPS. Here the player can opt to charge in guns blazing or sneak around  while discovering alternative ways in. You can be lethal or not, hack or not. There is no right or wrong way to go about it and no punishment for choosing your way. In this sense Deus Ex: HR embraces its RPG roots. You are in control, the story unravelling around you.

XP is rewarded for being curious, success at hacking and of course taking out the enemy. XP buys you Augs that grant some very useful, some very cosmetic improvements to your arsenal. These include punching through walls to being able to fall without harm. Other improvements allow better analytical skills during social engagements. You cannot unlock all the Augs so choices become crucial as you advance. Unlock hacking early for example, and you can open every door, read the emails of every computer and delve into the the rich backstory. Alternatively you can augment your exploratory skills with strong arms to move heavy objects, or jumping to get over other obstacles. If that's not enough, smash through a wall to get to where you want to go.

Exploration is a joy as is the hacking mini game. Sneaking is rewarding and systematically taking down all the mobs in a room takes time, observation and a lot of reloads in order to get the ghost and silent operative XP rewards. The only real flaw is the boss battles. They feel tideous and removes you from the excelently realised near future sci-fi world that has been created and remains you with a thud you are playing a video game.

For fans of the original, this will be a most rewarding experience. This is a game that is lived as much as it is played. Wonderful story telling, great characters and a joy to play.

Rating: 10/10