As I have noted previously, the Danish game Inside remains a personal favorite. Its atmospheric presentation, compelling narrative, and ingenious yet simple game mechanics contribute to its appeal. Upon viewing the trailer for 7th Sector, I anticipated a potential alternative to fill the void until Playdead releases their next title.
The trailer suggests gameplay centered around controlling various robots and vehicles. However, the reality is somewhat different. The player primarily embodies an electric-bolt, reminiscent of the Electric Gremlin from Gremlins 2: The New Batch. Rather than direct robot control, the core mechanic involves navigating an electrical current through the circuits of a dystopian future.
While the ability to commandeer and control different robots is eventually unlocked, it occurs roughly a third of the way into the game. This delay diminishes the impact of a feature prominently showcased in the promotional material. Beyond the extended period spent as an “electric-gremlin,” a pervasive sense of déjà vu emerged. While I initially approached the game due to its perceived similarities to Inside, the extent to which the game’s aesthetic and color palette mirrored that title felt like an excessive borrowing of elements.
A significant shortcoming of 7th Sector lies in its narrative ambiguity. Unlike Inside, where a connection is readily established with the protagonist, 7th Sector struggles to create a compelling reason to care about the electric current’s objectives. The motivation for traversing the environment feels underdeveloped.
While the visuals, despite their derivative nature, possess a stylish and atmospheric quality, 7th Sector ultimately lacks a crucial element to sustain long-term engagement. A clearer narrative and stronger sense of purpose are needed to justify the extended periods spent navigating the electrical systems.
In conclusion, 7th Sector, while exhibiting some instances of déjà vu and potential frustration, offers a few hours of entertainment at a reasonable price point. Therefore, it receives a qualified recommendation.
