Overall Feeling:
Featuring a land we haven’t explored before and a mix-up in the core gameplay department, Sleeping Dogs easily delivers one of the best open-world experiences we’ve been provided with this generation. Not molded after GTA nor intent on capturing the over-the-top vibe of the Saints Row series, Sleeping Dog establishes its own identity which features engaging melee based combat, action oriented driving, and a narrative that feels fresh despite treading in familiar territory.
The Pros:
+ Melee based combat is thought out and has the perfect mix of direct fun while still being challenging.
+ Hong Kong truly feels alive and is designed in a way that’s both fun to explore and simply look at.
+ The story goes into familiar territory but is entertaining thanks to some good writing and amazing performances from the cast.
+ Gun combat doesn’t feel tacked on and provides some nice bursts of variety.
+ Driving doesn’t feel like a chore nor do the secondary missions that are strewn about Hong Kong.
The Cons:
- The upgrade system for the fighting moves is a bit odd in how it’s presented.
- Some of the last few story missions feel out of place despite being fun to play.
Sometimes we encounter a bit of an inner conflict during our life. Things such as a work dilemma or a relationship problem may make us think deeply about what we’ll want to do and ultimately what side we’ll land on. But such things are trivial when compared to a police officer working deep undercover. Obviously we likely won’t ever know what such a thing is like, but it can somewhat be ascertained that even amidst a den of thieves, thugs, and pure criminals there’s bound to be some friendships created or even an ounce of compassion here and there.
