”Memory Lost” is a cyberpunk-themed, top-down, twin-stick shooter developed by Magic Hazard and published by ESDigital Games. Released on March 6, 2025, an atmospheric cyberpunk twin stick shooter that grew on me the longer I played.
Addicting combat
In “Memory Lost,” players navigate a dystopian world, utilizing a distinctive “shifting” mechanic that allows them to possess enemies, adapting their weapons and skills to combat ruthless corporations. This feature offers a dynamic approach to encounters, encouraging strategic thinking and adaptability. The game emphasizes fast-paced combat, requiring players to swiftly switch between host bodies to overcome challenges.
Admittedly I found my self struggling at the beginning of the game to get my self into grips with the Hotline Miami at 10x speed style combat. The shifting mechanics allows you to possess enemies that took enough damage. Except sometimes the enemies don’t give the player this opportunity. I never figured out why that is, whether they have a damage threshold or simply a % chance of it not happening. When the you reach 0 health the game goes into slow motion allowing you to quickly switch and get back in the fight so leaving vulnerable hosts around the arena was my number one strategy. The weapon and “host” ability variety and very limited ammo keeps the player on their toes and forces to adapt.
Dystopian setting
Set in a cyberpunk universe, “Memory Lost” immerses players in a world filled with technological marvels and corporate intrigue. The storyline revolves around themes of identity and memory, challenging players to uncover secrets and shape their own fate within this lore-rich environment. While the game’s atmosphere and setting have been praised for their depth and detail, some reviews have pointed out that the narrative execution falls short, lacking the engagement found in its world-building.
Mixed reception, for a good reason
The game has received mixed reviews from critics and I must say throughout the entire game, I could not decide where I stand either. I have to commend the game’s innovative gameplay mechanics and atmospheric world, these elements make it a worthwhile experience for twin stick shooter enthusiasts. However, there are narrative shortcomings and technical imperfections that prevent the game from reaching its full potential.
The game is atmospheric and does have a very unique feeling to it. But I was completely disjointed from the gritty dystopian world as the game doesn’t take it self seriously at all. Don’t get me wrong the constant, almost borderlands non stop humour sure did get a laugh out of me. Even if sometimes it was a bit too on the nose. For the most part these easter eggs are put in with love and effort. One instance, a non surprising dark souls reference that surprised me with actually overhauling the way checkpoints work in the game.
Art direction
Visually, “Memory Lost” captures the essence of the cyberpunk genre with its neon-lit environments and detailed character designs. The isometric perspective enhances the tactical aspects of gameplay, allowing players to plan their movements and attacks effectively. The soundtrack complements the game’s setting, featuring electronic and synth-heavy tracks that immerse players further into the dystopian atmosphere.
But the the actual graphics are pretty bad. I don’t mean that it doesn’t compete with huge AAA studios, it’s just ugly. This is the reason I found myself not enjoying the game at first, until I realised it’s on purpose. I bumped into a very chatty NPC and that’s when it clicked. As his text went past the dialog box I realised the the graphics weren’t a budget compromise , it was a choice.
Conclusion
“Memory Lost” offers a unique and joyful ride through a dystopian world, particularly for fans of the cyberpunk genre. Its innovative gameplay mechanics and atmospheric design stand out as its strongest features. However, narrative shortcomings may hinder the experience for some players. Despite this, the game provides a distinctive take on the twin-stick shooter genre, making it worth exploring for those intrigued by its premise.
It is very hard to out right recommend or shun the game. Is it the next Hotline Miami? no. But did I have fun, and laughed out loud? Yes. If you want the experience of borderlands humour at its peak and a challenging combat experience then you can pick up “Memory Lost” on steam right now. With the intention to bring it to all major platforms later this year.
