ReviewsReview: Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector

Review: Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector

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Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector is the sequel you didn’t know you wanted to play. It is deep, intense, and a bit dramatic. Moreover, it does a great job of building on the foundations of its predecessor. There is a hint of luck, strategy, and visual novel madness. Additionally, there are contracts to complete and a captivating story to enjoy.

This sci-fi RPG experience was developed by Jump Over the Age and published by Fellow Traveller. It is a single-player game that can be enjoyed on Game Pass. Moreover, if you love to stream your games, you can enjoy it on the move. Consequently, what’s not to love?

Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector, a classic Sci-Fi plot. 

This story-rich experience is full of twists and turns. I will not ruin the plot for you, but I loved every moment from the off. Interesting characters, strange endeavours, and layers of luck and drama keep you coming back for more.

The protagonist is an emulation of a human mind in an empty vessel. The sleeper is on the run and many powerful forces. However, you will not let this control you. With great allies and a ship at your command, you will carve a future for yourself and the crew who support you.

Dice-driven action. 

Like its predecessor, dice-driven action forms the backbone of this game. A standard die delivers a negative, neutral, and positive outcome to every task you undertake. Moreover, there are valuable resources to manage as you go about your daily tasks. Each roll of the dice delivers a risk vs reward experience that can adjust every playthrough. What’s more, the attributes of your sleeper alter every encounter.

Picking between 1 of 3 classes alters your bonuses and penalties. This has a massive impact on your approach and who to select for different contracts. Combining teammates offers tactical and strategic elements that pad out each playthrough. Additionally, weighing up bonuses and potential weaknesses can be a bit of a minefield. Consequently, you are kept on your toes throughout.

What’s new?

Though Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector incorporates many of the original mechanics, there are 2 new ideas to master. These additional elements will thrill veteran gamers and test newcomers to the franchise. You have full access to your ship. This is the key component for navigating the stars. The “Belt Map” lets you travel to new locations while exhausting your fuel supply. This is a tricky balancing act and something that can’t be taken for granted.

The second element is the aforementioned contracts. Here, you blend your team to overcome each situation. Pressure, mistakes, and luck are some of the ingredients you’ll encounter. This dramatic blend of moments alongside the RNG dice creates a suspenseful situation that can make or break your game.

Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector looks fantastic.

If you remember the first instalment, you’ll appreciate the stunning graphics. Individual character portraits shift throughout each run. Moreover, every 3D location is wonderfully interesting. The world is a wash of vibrancy and sci-fi madness. There is a sense of darkness and despair as you navigate each tricky situation.

The audio is somewhat subdued. This could seem lacklustre, but I enjoyed the simple and effective approach. The game benefits from a compelling atmosphere as a consequence. Moments of silence are juxtaposed with energy. Subsequently, you flit from lulls and highs with delicate brilliance. 

Well devised controls. 

On paper, Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector should have been tough to play. There are plenty of pitfalls and lots to learn. However, in reality, the control system is well devised and relatively simple to master. Furthermore, the developer has created a reasonably easy-to-follow learning curve. Consequently, if you’ve never played the original, you should master things in no time.

As RNG is the name of the game, and the roll of the die can ruin every plan, replay value and longevity are at the fore. Moreover, the fantastic story, blend of characters, and interesting side quests help to keep you hooked from the start. 

Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector should be on your radar.

I’ve played some great indie games, and Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector is up there with the best. It is interesting, thrilling, and well-balanced. Moreover, the plot is great, and the core mechanics are wonderful. Accordingly, it is fantastic and I recommend buying it here! Can you run and build a future? Choose your Sleeper, build a crew, and hope that luck is on your side.

SUMMARY

Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector is a great sequel and ideal for newcomers and lovers of the franchise. The story is captivating and intense and the gameplay is fun, interesting, and well-balanced.


+ A vibrant, sci-fi world.
+ Subdued audio.
+ Good controls.
+ Plenty of replay value.

- RNG can be a little frustrating.

(Rating: PEGI 12 Mild Swearing Release date: 31/01/2025 Price: £20.99 or free on Game Pass)


(Reviewed on the Xbox Series X. Also available on PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5)


(Full disclosure! This review is based on a copy of the game being provided by the publisher/developer.)


Daniel Waite
Daniel Waite
My gaming career started on an Amiga and spans many consoles! Currently, I game using an MSI laptop and Xbox Series X. A fan of every genre, I love to give anything a go. Former editor and reviewer for http://www.bonusstage.co.uk, I'm loving my new home here at Movies Games and Tech. I can be contacted for gaming reviews on the following email: Daniel@moviesgamesandtech.com

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