Status:
Complete and Play Tested
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Watch Dogs (PS4) Review
Released in 2014, Watch Dogs was Ubisoft's highly anticipated open-world action-adventure game, boasting an innovative mechanic where players can hack into the city's infrastructure with a smartphone. Set in a near-future Chicago, players assume the role of Aiden Pearce, a hacker and vigilante on a quest for revenge. While Watch Dogs brought a fresh concept to the table, it was also met with mixed reactions. The game promised a tech-driven revolution, but its execution left a lot to be desired in some areas.
Gameplay & Mechanics
Watch Dogs offers a blend of action, stealth, and hacking, which is the games central mechanic:
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Hacking is key to the experience. You can manipulate traffic lights, cameras, banks, and even citizens personal data, using your smartphone as a tool to control the environment around you. This creates opportunities for both tactical combat and problem-solving.
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The open-world design is fairly detailed. Chicago is well-rendered with traffic, pedestrians, and a bustling environment to explore. The variety of side activities, like hacking locations, collecting data, and racing, gives players a lot to do.
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Combat is mostly third-person shooting, with decent cover mechanics and stealth elements. You can choose between direct confrontation or using your hacking tools to take a stealthier approach.
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Driving mechanics are average, providing basic functionality to navigate the world, but the physics can feel a bit clunky at times.
While these mechanics show promise, the game often falls into repetition with mission design. Many of the core activitieslike driving from one place to another or hacking a specific pointbecome formulaic over time.
Story & Character Development
The story revolves around Aiden Pearce, who seeks vengeance after a hack that led to the death of his niece. As he delves into the citys criminal underground, he uncovers a conspiracy involving powerful figures who use technology for their own gains.
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Aiden Pearce is a brooding, one-dimensional protagonist who lacks significant character depth. His motivations and personality feel somewhat shallow, making it hard to emotionally connect with him.
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The supporting cast doesnt fare much better. Characters like Clara, Jordi, and T-Bone add some personality, but they are often used as plot devices rather than fully fleshed-out individuals.
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The narrative itself is standard fare for a revenge-driven story but doesnt add anything particularly fresh or engaging. The pacing slows down significantly in the middle of the game, leaving the story feeling stretched thin.
Modes & Features
Watch Dogs has a solid set of modes and features for both single-player and multiplayer:
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Campaign Mode: The main campaign is the story of Aidens quest for vengeance, which includes hacking missions, combat, and chases. While the story can feel drawn out, the missions offer varied activities.
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Multiplayer:
