A strategy-heavy cyberpunk RPG adventure
Null State is a premium role-playing game set in a dystopian near future where you assume the role of a hacker navigating the aftermath of a catastrophic global crash. The game emphasizes exploration, moral choices, and stealth mechanics as you explore a fractured world full of secrets.
Although different in tone, Null State shares some of the cerebral planning and tension found in games like Invisible, Inc. However, it leans more into storytelling and world-building than pure tactics. It offers a slow-burn narrative with a dark, cyberpunk atmosphere where survival depends on your ability to outwit complex systems.
Surviving the digital fallout
Null State begins in the aftermath of Obsidian Wednesday—a mysterious global crash that brought the digital world to its knees. You play as one of the last hackers, navigating a shattered society while trying to uncover what really happened. Along the way, you’ll meet characters with personal stakes in the mystery, each bringing their own dilemmas and perspectives. It’s a slow-building, narrative-heavy experience that rewards exploration and patience.
Much of the gameplay involves infiltrating networks, one node at a time. These networks are procedurally generated so that no two are exactly the same. You’ll have to sneak past or outsmart various security systems, with choices that affect how each job unfolds. The tension is real—some networks are best avoided entirely, while others offer valuable clues or rewards. This constant risk-vs-reward loop keeps things interesting without feeling repetitive.
Meanwhile, the turn-based combat system is punishing and strategic. Your tools and equipment—referred to as "ware"—can be damaged mid-fight, forcing you to think ahead. There’s also a built-in user-generated content framework that allows you to create and share your own stories within the game. Keep in mind, though, that the game’s methodical pace and strategic demands might not suit players looking for faster, more action-packed gameplay.
For fans of cyberpunk-mystery games
Overall, Null State delivers a thoughtful blend of strategy, narrative depth, and atmospheric worldbuilding within a post-collapse cyberpunk setting. Its turn-based combat and stealth-driven network exploration offer a rewarding experience for players who enjoy slower, more deliberate gameplay. While it may not appeal to those seeking fast-paced action, it stands out as a compelling choice for fans of story-rich RPGs with a strategic edge.
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