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Shadowrun Returns

Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, iOS, Xbox Series X|S, Mac, PlayStation 4, Android • 2013

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Quick resume

The unique cyberpunk-meets-fantasy world of Shadowrun has gained a huge cult following since its creation nearly 25 years ago. Now, creator Jordan Weisman returns to the world of Shadowrun, modernizing this classic game setting as a single player, turn-based tactical RPG.

Global score

88/100

Genres

Adventure, Indie, Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS)

Pros

  • Engaging story and well-written dialogue
  • Tactical turn-based combat
  • Rich cyberpunk-fantasy setting
  • Character customization and progression
  • Built-in editor and community content

Cons

  • Linear gameplay with limited exploration
  • Short base campaign
  • Lack of voice acting
  • Limited companion interaction
  • Some combat imbalance and repetitiveness

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    2

    "Players can customize characters and choose team composition freely, but the game is largely linear with limited exploration and story branching."

  • Competence
    3

    "Turn-based tactical combat with skill progression and strategic use of abilities offers a satisfying challenge, though some find it easy or repetitive."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is on single-player experience with no multiplayer or ranked modes; gameplay centers on personal progress and story."

  • Continuation
    2

    "Players report engaging story and tactical combat that encourage extended play sessions; community content and DLC add longevity."

  • Cooperation
    1

    "Players manage a team of mercenaries with different skills, but companions are mostly hired NPCs with limited interaction."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Character creation and skill customization allow varied playstyles; built-in editor and workshop enable user-created campaigns."

  • Domination
    -4

    "Interactions emphasize narrative and cooperation; no evidence of dominance or power assertion over others."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Immersive cyberpunk-fantasy world and engrossing story provide strong escape from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily driven by interest in story, setting, and gameplay; no indication of obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Players experiment with different classes, skills, and tactics; game encourages trying various builds and strategies."

  • Exploration
    -3

    "Game is mostly linear with limited side quests and no open world; exploration is constrained to mission areas."

  • Expression
    2

    "Character customization in stats and appearance is possible but limited; no extensive cosmetic personalization."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Strong fantasy elements blended with cyberpunk setting, including magic, mythical races, and supernatural themes."

  • Fellowship
    -3

    "Primarily a single-player experience with minimal social interaction; community content exists but social play is limited."

  • Growth
    4

    "Skill trees and character progression provide meaningful learning and development opportunities."

  • Health
    -4

    "Typical sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related features."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused attention during tactical combat and story progression; not suited for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -4

    "Limited emotional or social bonding; companions are hired NPCs with minimal personal interaction."

  • Leadership
    2

    "Players lead a team of mercenaries tactically, making decisions on team composition and combat strategy."

  • Progression
    4

    "Character leveling, skill upgrades, and equipment acquisition drive player progression."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "Turn-based combat and story pacing provide a measured, thoughtful experience with moments of flow."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Atmospheric music and art style create immersive sensory experience, though graphics are modest."

  • Status
    -4

    "No social recognition or ranking systems; focus is on individual story and gameplay."

  • Story
    5

    "Strong narrative focus with well-written dialogue and immersive storytelling driving the experience."

  • Strategy
    4

    "Tactical turn-based combat requires planning, positioning, and skill use; strategic thinking rewarded."

  • Thrill
    1

    "Combat can be tense but overall difficulty is moderate; suspense builds mostly through story rather than risk."

  • Value
    3

    "Good value especially on sale; base game plus DLC and workshop content provide many hours of entertainment."

  • Violence
    3

    "Combat involves shooting, melee, magic attacks, and destruction; violence is a core gameplay element."

  • Survival
    2

    "Combat requires managing health and resources to avoid defeat; survival is a tactical concern."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026