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The year is 2029. Augmented humans are outcasts, feared and segregated by a society grappling with the aftermath of the “Aug Incident.” In this turbulent world, Adam Jensen returns in Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, a game that masterfully blends immersive gameplay with a thought-provoking narrative, yet ultimately stumbles in its execution.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Adam Jensen in Prague

A World Divided

From the outset, Mankind Divided establishes its central theme of prejudice and social division. The game largely maintains a neutral stance, acknowledging the complexities of the conflict between augmented and “natural” humans. However, the palpable tension and systemic discrimination against “clanks” are evident in the grim reality of Prague. The game doesn’t shy away from portraying the fear and mistrust that fuel this societal divide. Prague itself is a breathtaking cyberpunk metropolis, teeming with detail and atmosphere. From bustling marketplaces to shadowy alleyways, the city feels vibrant and alive, a testament to Eidos Montreal’s dedication to world-building.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Prague Cityscape

This meticulous attention to detail extends to Golem City, the augmented ghetto, a stark and oppressive environment that highlights the plight of the marginalized. The stories within Golem City, often found in hidden emails and personal logs, paint a bleak picture of desperation and despair, adding a layer of emotional depth to the game’s narrative. One particularly harrowing discovery involves a father who took his own and his pregnant wife’s lives, unable to bear the thought of his child being born into this fractured world.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Golem City

Augmented Gameplay

Mankind Divided refines the gameplay formula established in Human Revolution, offering a fluid and flexible experience that caters to diverse playstyles. The side missions, while fewer in number, are more substantial and engaging, often featuring branching narratives and multiple outcomes. Whether you prefer stealth, brute force, hacking, or a combination of approaches, the game provides the tools and freedom to tackle objectives in your own way.

The new augmentations, initially restricted by an experimental limiter, add another layer of tactical depth. Icarus Dash allows for quick traversal and evasion, while Remote Hacking provides unprecedented control over electronic devices. The ability to customize your loadout and upgrade augmentations to suit your preferred playstyle further enhances the sense of player agency.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Combat Scenario

Level design is a particular strength, with sprawling environments offering numerous pathways and hidden areas to explore. From infiltrating heavily guarded facilities to navigating complex ventilation systems, Mankind Divided encourages creative problem-solving and rewards exploration. The game truly shines when it allows players to experiment with different approaches and find their own solutions.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Stealth Approach

The visual and auditory presentation is equally impressive. The environments are stunningly detailed, with a distinct cyberpunk aesthetic that permeates every aspect of the game’s world. The soundtrack is a perfect complement to the narrative, blending atmospheric soundscapes with pulsating electronic beats to create a sense of tension and intrigue.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Environmental Detail

A Narrative Shortfall

Despite its strengths, Mankind Divided falls short in its narrative delivery. The promising premise and intriguing setup ultimately give way to a rushed and unsatisfying conclusion. Many plot threads are left dangling, the motivations of the primary antagonists remain unclear, and the overarching conspiracy involving the Illuminati feels underdeveloped.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Story Element

The game ends abruptly, leaving the player with more questions than answers. The feeling that Mankind Divided was intended as a stepping stone to a larger narrative arc is undeniable, but the lack of closure ultimately diminishes the impact of the story.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided – Antagonist Encounter

Conclusion

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided is a game of immense potential, boasting exceptional gameplay, a captivating world, and a compelling premise. However, its flawed narrative execution prevents it from reaching its full potential. While it offers a thrilling and immersive experience, the unsatisfying conclusion leaves a lingering sense of disappointment.