Shadowrun Chronicles: Boston Lockdown

Even without the frequent sever issues, Shadowrun Chronicles : Boston Lockdown would be hard to recommended to anyone but the most rabid fans of the setting. Even they would be better served seeking out superior adaptations. Which do exist, so it’s not like this is your only option. Lockdown commits the worst crime of all; not being terrible, but being boring. Given free reign to go wild in such a ridiculous, lively setting, it’s desperately disappointing to see such a lack of character a...

Although Shadowrun Chronicles has long list of problems, I find myself wanting to return to it. The dark cyberpunk meets fantasy world is very compelling, and playing cooperatively alongside others is a great thrill. The story of dragon destroying Fenway Park and the city's people going mad pulls me in, and I want to experience more of it, despite the outrageously fake Boston accent many of the characters have.

Shadow run is a campy romp that doesn't take itself too seriously. Its fun to play through, but only mimics (and doesn't quite stack up to) the exceedingly excellent XCOM. There is better weapon class variety, character customization, and a few other points where it might exceed its muse, but it measures up just a shade below on most other occasions.

A bit rough around the edges, and downright buggy in others, Shadowrun Chronicles has a lot of flaws to recommend unless you are a fan of the setting.

Shadowrun Chronicles: Boston Lockdown has a serviceable story, but its lack of branching dialogue options and its heavy emphasis on combat render it a less satisfying experience compared to its recent Shadowrun peers. Fortunately its tactical combat shines given good co-op partners, although the weak progression options and its lackluster use of its fantasy-cyberpunk setting don’t live up to expectations.

A co-op version of XCOM in the Shadowrun universe sounds a great idea, but this lacks the depth to make the best of the concept.

Smear tactics.