I really wasn’t sure what to expect when I started REPLACED. Initially intended to launch in 2022, the game faced several delays in part due to the war in Ukraine and the studio having to relocate from Belarus to Cyprus. There was a lot of hype in the lead up to release and the big question was could Sad Cat Studios deliver. Despite a few hiccups, I’d say they did, and in a big way. Let’s break it down.
GRAPHICS
The graphics in REPLACED are nothing short of breathtaking, blending pixel art with cinematic 2.5D environments in a way that feels both nostalgic and boldly modern. Each scene feels meticulously crafted, with excellent use of lighting and depth that is enhanced by the camera panning and zooming at key moments.
There are no locations that disappoint, but I found the game is at it’s most impressive during areas with neon‑drenched streets. In preview footage the graphics looked like the star of the show, and while other areas of the game excel as well, it’s hard not to be most impressed with how beautiful it is.
GAMEPLAY
Going in, gameplay was the aspect of the game I was most curious about. From preview footage we knew it was visually stunning, but could the controls match it? For the most part, the answer is yes. Movement feels weighty and I liked the intentional slower pace you move through the world. I have seen a few complaints from gamers wanting a sprint button and while this would have been handy at certain times I do think you risk players moving through the world faster than intended and this impacting the cinematic nature of the game. My only real issue with the traversal was some frustrating moments with the pick axe.
Combat can be considered Arkham-like. It relies strongly on timing to dodge and counter incoming attacks and deal damage of your own. For the first half of the game I really enjoyed every encounter. Later in the game I did start to feel a little fatigue as it didn’t evolve as much as I would have liked. A few more executions and combat animations may have helped, but it is still a strong package overall.
STORY
I wasn’t sure what to expect from the story in REPLACED. Sci-fi would not be a genre I would usually seek out, but here the narrative gripped me. The game follows an AI (R.E.A.C.H) accidentally fused with a human host, Warren, in an alternate 1980s America ravaged by catastrophe. This setup creates a compelling dynamic: an artificial mind forced to navigate a broken world while slowly confronting what it means to exist.
The game slows down in certain areas to let you interact with people living on the margins of Phoenix City. Early on in the game you reach a refugee encampment and I spent as long as I could exploring the area and assisting NPCs. These sections did a superb job of fleshing out the world.
VALUE
REPLACED also offers a great value proposition. Clocking in at around a dozen hours per playthrough, the £16.99 price of entry (or at no additional cost as part of your Game Pass subscription) feels like a steal. You’ll see all the game has to offer during your playthrough, but I can see me revisiting this one again down the line.
ACHIEVEMENTS
The achievement list covers all bases. It’s a mix of story progression, side content, combat and collectibles. Note that you’ll also need to complete the game on hard difficulty if you want the 1000G.
VERDICT
REPLACED captivated me from the very start. The visuals set the tone immediately and that is backed up by an engaging story, incredible world, fun traversal and punchy combat. We waited a long time for the game to release, and I’m happy to report that it was absolutely worth the wait.
-Jessica
