For a long time, I’ve never been into multiplayer video games. Nor PVP, nor cooperative titles. I’ve simply enjoyed playing single-player games and having fun my own way. Experiencing an adventure on my own. I have always been a discrete and shy individual, so I tend to be on my own, specially when gaming. As I tried to explain on my “Benefits of Cloud Gaming in Mental Health” post, I feel like video games act as a comfort zone for many, myself included. For me, said safe space has to be disconnected, even thought there’s always a community to chat and have fun with. That’s why, as an example on said post, I used Genshin Impact. A –mostly– single-player game, with an enormous and dedicated community online.
With that said, recently I found a game that changed that. A cooperative game that intrigued me so much, that I decided to bite the bullet and give it a shoot. Despite being wary of multiplayer video games… That honor goes to the title that I am reviewing today: Deep Rock Galactic. Despite celebrating its fifth anniversary around the time this review is posted, it is still in incredible shape. Few games manage to survive this long, specially without the budget and support of AAA publishers behind. So, what makes this title stand out for me, and many others; and how it garnered such a dedicated group of players? Read this review to find out, and perhaps you’ll be mining your way through rock and stone in the cloud!
First contact
Developed by Danish studio Ghost Ship Games, Deep Rock Galactic is a cooperative first-person shooter video game. In 2018, the title was published by Coffee Stain Publishing in Early Access, and since then, has garnered the appraisal from critics and players alike. Not only that, but the game has been constantly updated with new content and events, with 2020 marking its 1.0 official release. Deep Rock Galactic takes place in an alternate universe where players take on the roles of space dwarves who embark on dangerous missions to explore and mine resources on hostile alien planets. The game features a unique blend of intense action, exploration, and resource management that makes it a truly addictive experience.
Being able to play multiplayer-centric titles like this, via the cloud, is really convenient. Specially for cooperative titles, since the player and its friends can quickly launch the game and start a session. As of the writing of this review, Deep Rock Galaxy is available on Xbox Cloud via Game Pass Ultimate, GeForce NOW and Boosteroid. Being available on three different services is great, so there’s room to choose for the most convenient. Sadly, the Xbox Cloud and Steam version of the game don’t have cross play enabled. That means that those who opt to play on Xbox Cloud, will be able to play with other Xbox Cloud users, or those who play via the Xbox console or Microsoft Store client. As for GFN and Boosteroid users, they’ll be able to play with other PC/Steam players.
Down to the core
One of the most significant features of Deep Rock Galactic is its cooperative gameplay mechanics. Players can join forces with up to three other players to take on challenging missions, with each player fulfilling a unique role. The roles are divided into four classes: Driller, Scout, Engineer, and Gunner. Driller is responsible for creating paths through the terrain, Scout is responsible for exploring and identifying resources, Engineer is responsible for creating defenses and fixing damaged equipment, and Gunner is responsible for combat and providing cover fire. This system creates a sense of teamwork and coordination that is essential to succeed in the game’s challenging missions.
Deep Rock Galactic features a procedural generation system that ensures that each mission is different from the last. This system creates a sense of unpredictability and challenge that keeps the game fresh and exciting. It also means that players can replay the game’s missions many times without getting bored, as they will always face different challenges. The game also features a variety of enemy types, each with unique behaviors and attack patterns. Players will face off against alien creatures, such as giant spiders, swarms of bugs, and armored beasts. The combat in Deep Rock Galactic is intense and challenging, and players must rely on teamwork to overcome the game’s more difficult enemies.
Striving for gold
Another aspect of the game that sets it apart from other first-person shooter games is its emphasis on resource management. Players must collect various resources throughout each mission to upgrade their equipment and weapons. These resources can also be used to purchase new weapons and equipment. The resource management aspect of the game adds a layer of depth to the gameplay and provides a strong sense of progression and accomplishment as players work to improve their gear. Additionally, the game doesn’t require voice chat, even though it’s available. Deep Rock Galactic has a text chat for lobbies, and markers to communicate.
In addition to its cooperative gameplay mechanics and resource management system, Deep Rock Galactic also features a variety of customization options. Players can customize their characters with different helmets, armor, and accessories. They can also customize their weapons with different upgrades, such as increased damage, faster reloads, and better accuracy. This system allows players to create their own unique play styles and helps to keep the game feeling fresh and engaging. Most of this is done in the lobby, where players can roam around between missions, upgrade and get new equipment, and even party hard.
A deep atmosphere
Deep Rock Galactic has an immersive atmosphere, thanks to its stunning graphics and sound design. The graphics are visually stunning and highly detailed. Environments are varied and immersive, with each biome featuring unique terrain, vegetation, and atmospheric effects. The lighting in the game is also impressive, with dynamic lighting effects that create a sense of depth and realism. The character designs are intricate and visually appealing, with each class of dwarves having their own unique look and feel despite the low-poly look. Sound design is equally impressive, with a range of sound effects that add to the tension and excitement of the gameplay.
The game’s ambient sounds, such as the chirping of insects or the howling wind on a desolate planet, create an immersive atmosphere that draws players into the game’s world. The weapons in the game also have a satisfying and distinct sound that adds to the sense of impact and power. The music in Deep Rock Galactic, composed by Sophus Alf, is also noteworthy, with an original score that complements the game’s sci-fi theme. Music changes dynamically based on the player’s actions, creating a sense of tension during combat and a feeling of exploration during quieter moments.
Refining thoughts
Overall, Deep Rock Galactic is an outstanding video game that offers a unique and thrilling gameplay experience. Its cooperative mechanics, procedural generation system, resource management, and customization options make it a game that is both challenging and rewarding to play. If you enjoy first-person shooter games and are looking for a new and exciting gaming experience, then Deep Rock Galactic is definitely worth checking out.
As of now, the game is playable via the cloud on GeForce NOW, Boosteroid and Xbox Cloud. The game plays mostly the same on all three, but keep in mind that Xbox Cloud doesn’t support keyboard and mouse. Additionally, both GeForce NOW and Boosteroid offer slightly better graphics and performance; specially the former. In the end, your service of choice doesn’t really matter as long as you are having fun playing with your friends, so make sure to pick the version of the game that has the crossplay options that you need.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this review and give the game a chance, either alone, with random players or friends. Click here for more Cloud Games reviews, and remember to keep a tab on our Twitter and Mastodon profiles for the latest news. Until next time; ROCK AND STONE!
Deep Rock Galactic
Summary
Its cooperative mechanics, procedural generated levels, and resource management elements make Deep Rock Galactic a game that is both challenging and rewarding to play. If you’re craving for some coop action on the cloud, Deep Rock Galactic is a must.
