Reality Break Review
Is Reality Break the Escape Velocity successor I’ve been hoping for?
Reality Break. Credit: Element Games
Reality Break from solo developer Courtney Liessen (Element Games) reminded me of Mac shareware classic Escape Velocity, one of my all-time favorite game series, where you fly around space in an upgradable ship, taking missions and fighting in dogfight combat. I've been waiting for a game to scratch that itch for years, and Reality Break almost did the job.
Reality Break. Credit: Element Games
The combat is fluid and fast-paced action RPG fare. You've got primary and secondary weapons, different boosting abilities, and energy consumption that functions as a stamina system. It feels good in the moment, though the graphics can get cluttered, affecting readability during hectic fights.
Reality Break. Credit: Element Games
The game is a roguelite with a "reality break" reset mechanic that enables progression through a permanent upgrade tree. The resets make sense story-wise, as your character is caught in a loop, but I might have preferred straightforward progression without resets. That's my Escape Velocity bias showing, though.
What stands out is the unique Rewrite mechanic that lets you modify items, skills, missions, and dialogue. It's a clever system that transforms how you approach the game. Dedicated players can also enjoy endgame activities and secret unlockables that change gameplay.
Reality Break. Credit: Element Games
Reality Break is a solid space action RPG that does a lot well, even if it's not quite the Escape Velocity successor I've been dreaming of. If you enjoy space shooters with RPG elements, this one is for you.
Reality Break is available now on Steam.
Overall Score: 6/10
Played on: Steam Deck
