Sovereign Syndicate

The main pros of the game

• Compelling Writing and Characters: Many reviews praised the writing quality, describing it as sharp, witty, and engaging. The characters are noted to be interesting and layered, contributing to an immersive narrative experience.
• Unique Setting: The Victorian steampunk aesthetic is well-received, with a rich atmosphere that enhances the gameplay experience. The world-building is often described as captivating and well-crafted.
• Innovative Mechanics: The use of tarot cards instead of traditional dice rolls for skill checks is seen as a creative twist, adding a unique flavor to the gameplay.
• Multiple Protagonists: The ability to play as different characters, each with distinct stories and perspectives, is appreciated, even if the execution has its flaws.
• Short Playtime: The game is relatively short, with many players able to finish it in under 15 hours, making it a manageable experience for those looking for a quick narrative adventure.

The main cons of the game

• Comparison to Disco Elysium: Many users noted that the game feels too similar to Disco Elysium, with some feeling it falls short in terms of depth, meaningful choices, and overall execution.
• Shallow RPG Mechanics: The RPG elements are criticized for being underdeveloped, with many choices feeling inconsequential and the skill checks often leading to the same outcomes regardless of success or failure.
• Repetitive Environments: Players expressed frustration with the limited number of locations, leading to frequent backtracking and a sense of monotony as they repeatedly navigate the same areas.
• Pacing Issues: The pacing of the story is noted as uneven, with some chapters feeling drawn out and others rushed, particularly towards the conclusion.
• Technical Issues: Several users reported performance problems, including long loading times, unstable framerates, and a lack of voice acting, which detracted from the overall experience.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• More Meaningful Choices: Players expressed a desire for a more robust choice system that impacts the narrative and character development in significant ways, rather than just offering flavor text.
• Voice Acting: Many reviews mentioned the absence of voice acting as a missed opportunity, which could have enhanced the immersion and storytelling.
• Fast Travel Options: The game could benefit from a more efficient fast travel system to alleviate the tediousness of backtracking through familiar areas.
• Greater Interactivity: Some users wished for more interactive elements in the environment, as many items felt unimportant or lacked meaningful engagement.
• Expanded Character Development: There is a call for deeper character arcs and more substantial resolutions to the protagonists' storylines, rather than feeling like an introduction to a larger narrative.

Summary

• Overall, while Sovereign Syndicate has its strengths in writing and setting, it faces criticism for its RPG mechanics, pacing, and repetitiveness, leading to mixed feelings among players.

Summary generated on: October 30, 2025