Recently, the space setting in video games has been reborn, with an influx of new titles hitting digital and retail shelves. New ideas have been put into practice, resulting in a handful of titles becoming popular among fans of space-based titles. However, that doesn't stop Evochron Mercenary, a title recently re-released on Steam after flying under the radar since its 2010 release, from bringing something new to the table. Whether you're a space-sim guru, a wannabe astronaut or a newcomer to the genre, you'll certainly find something new in this complete space simulation.
What makes this game enjoyable is that there's so much to it. While shooting certainly plays a part in how your experience pans out, there's far too much alternative content for the game to simply be labelled as a space shooter. In short, an entire economy changes based on your actions, giving you the power to change the universe completely, making this an all-out space simulation title - this is a rarity in today's industry, but does that make a worthy purchase?
What Evochron Mercenary Got Right
Varied and interesting gameplay elements - The diverse range of elements which make up the game accounts for several different areas of space exploration. These combine to create a complete space experience, complete from discovering new areas, to setting up docking and fuel stations, to interaction with other ships. Each task you undertake contributes to your reputation and in turn your overall experience with this game.
Your behaviour changes your experience - How you interact with the other inhabitants of the universe defines how you are treated. Good behaviour and good trade improves your reputation and so other entities will offer you a good deal. On the other hand, bad behaviour will wreck your reputation. The fact that actions bring consequences adds a sense of realism and makes the experience a little more enjoyable.
Thorough tutorial - Many modern titles lack a detailed tutorial which runs you through more than the mere basics required to get by. On the other hand, Evochron Mercenary gives you detailed tips on flight control, and helps players learn methods of interaction with nearby ships. However, the tutorial still felt like it was lacking some key details.
Amazing Exploration - The discovery and exploration elements of this game are what will attract new fans to the genre. The stunning backdrops shine as you move between objectives, and really help to lighten up the atmosphere. Whether it’s the contrasting greens and browns of a planet in front of you, or the swirling blues and reds of sparkling nebulae, there’s always something to keep you interested while navigating the vast voids of space. There’s also always something new to discover, no matter your location.
What Evochron Mercenary Got Wrong
Not totally accessible - Even given the thorough tutorial previously mentioned, there’s a very steep learning curve and many players may not play long enough to figure out the small details which really make the experience. Many new players may struggle to come to grips with the amount of content the game has to offer, while many others may struggle in the giant maze that is space. This game takes commitment to learn, which may deter new players.
Size of space can be intimidating - Getting from point A to point B can be quite a bore at times when you realise how far away your objective is. While there are some very nice views throughout the universe, some scenes get old when you travel back and forth in them continuously -- especially if it is a five or ten minute journey. While there is a warping mechanism implemented, it feels dishonest to be using it every time you want to get to an old area or objective.
The Final Verdict
Evochron Mercenary is a very solid all-round space simulation title, featuring solid space combat and breathtaking scenery. A complex set of building, contract management, and objective-based elements make this a great purchase for existing fans of the space/sandbox genre, however players with less patience or time may wish to look elsewhere - this game takes a long time to get to know.