Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Maken X reinvents the series by shifting to a first-person perspective, focusing heavily on visceral melee combat. Players wield the Soul Sword, an enigmatic blade capable of “brainjacking” enemies—seizing control of their bodies and harnessing their unique skills. This mechanic turns each encounter into a strategic puzzle: should you hack into a heavily armored soldier to smash through barriers, or commandeer a nimble creature for stealthy reconnaissance?

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Throughout the adventure, you’ll encounter thirteen distinct characters available for brainjacking, each offering their own playstyle and special attacks. Some are built for raw power, easily dispatching foes with brutal melee combos, while others specialize in psionic or ranged abilities. Learning when and whom to possess becomes a core part of the experience, encouraging experimentation and deep engagement with the game’s combat systems.

Decision-making adds another layer to Maken X’s gameplay. Your actions—such as sparing or eliminating certain foes—directly influence story branches and determine one of seven possible endings. These narrative forks reward multiple playthroughs, as you’ll want to explore different character paths, test alternative strategies in combat, and uncover every twist in the plot. The result is a replayable, evolving challenge that keeps you invested long after the credits roll.

Graphics

For its era, Maken X boasts surprisingly detailed environments and fluid character animations. The research lab complexes feel atmospheric, lit by flickering fluorescent bulbs and dotted with experimental apparatus that hint at the sinister science lurking beneath the surface. Outdoor areas offer a grittier, more organic contrast—overgrown temples, rocky caverns, and ruined facilities come alive with dynamic lighting and carefully placed visual cues.

Character models shine thanks to expressive facial textures and varied designs. From armored mercenaries to mutated creatures, each potential host for brainjacking displays distinct silhouettes and movement patterns. This visual clarity not only enhances immersion but also helps you quickly assess the strengths and vulnerabilities of potential bodies during frenetic combat scenarios.

Special effects further elevate the experience. Psi powers manifest as vivid energy pulses, illuminating dark corridors when unleashed. The Soul Sword itself crackles with ethereal light during charged strikes, making every blow feel impactful. Overall, the graphical presentation holds up—combining rich colors, moody atmospherics, and smooth frame rates to keep you fully engrossed in the world.

Story

At its core, Maken X weaves a tale of betrayal, terrorism, and supernatural power. The eponymous Soul Sword is not merely a weapon but a sentient entity, a wandering mutant spirit awakened by Kay Kuroda to rescue her kidnapped father. The premise sets a strong emotional anchor: you’re not just wandering aimlessly but pursuing a personal mission against ruthless terrorists.

As you progress, the research lab’s dark secrets unravel—psionic experiments gone awry, clandestine agendas, and the true cost of wielding forbidden power. The branching narrative ensures that your choices carry real weight, altering relationships with allies and adversaries alike. Did you spare that scientist’s life or harvest his knowledge forcefully? Every decision shapes Kay’s journey and the sword’s fate, making the story deeply interactive.

With seven distinct endings, the narrative offers both closure and tantalizing “what-ifs.” Some outcomes lean toward bittersweet sacrifice, while others deliver triumphant victories. These variations encourage you to replay with fresh strategies, unlocking hidden dialogues and confronting moral dilemmas you might have missed on earlier runs.

Overall Experience

Maken X delivers a compelling fusion of first-person melee action and narrative-driven exploration. Its core mechanic—brainjacking—remains as innovative today as upon release, injecting constant variety into combat and puzzle-solving. While the controls and camera can feel slightly dated by modern standards, the game’s bold design choices and branching storylines keep the adventure feeling fresh and engaging.

Players who appreciate experimental gameplay mechanics and choice-driven narratives will find much to love here. The challenge level scales nicely: die-hard action fans can hone advanced combos and psionic techniques, while story-focused players can delve into character arcs and branching plot paths. The multiple endings and character-based combat systems reward both depth and replayability.

In sum, Maken X is a standout title for anyone seeking a unique blend of swordplay, mind-control, and storytelling. Whether you’re chasing every ending or simply immersing yourself in its eerie, science-fiction world, this game offers an experience that’s as thought-provoking as it is action-packed. For fans of innovative first-person adventures, Maken X remains a must-play classic.

Retro Replay Score

7.1/10