Unknown 9: Awakening PS5 Review

I like AA titles. Sometimes they end up being more fun than high-profile games, even if nothing indicates it at first. Can I say the same about Unknown 9: Awakening?

Many of us associate Anya Chalotra with the role of Yennefer in The Witcher Netflix series – she was enchanting as a powerful mage. And it seems that playing magical roles is the actress’ destiny. Not so long ago she made her debut in a video game, starring as the main character Haroona in Unknown 9: Awakening.

Haroona is a Quaestor – a seeker, adventurer, or simply the one that aspires to know and perceive more than an average human being. At the beginning of the story, she learns that she can draw energy from another dimension and convert it into magical skills. Her gifts prove handy when she finds herself in the middle of a conspiracy: soon it turns out that the protagonist is to face a villainous society, and in order to do so, she needs to use both her magic and wit.

The story is non-spectacular, which doesn’t mean it’s bad. I’d call it simply decent; some of the characters captured my attention. At the same time, I don’t understand the whole sound and dance about the implied “wokeness” of the game. I see nothing woke with it. It’s thus a fuss about nothing.

Unknown 9: Awakening has some appealing combat mechanics. Haroona pushes and pulls enemies, and she literally steps into their shoes. Stepping involves controlling an opponent’s body for a while to turn him against his allies. This is, in fact, unique and cool. Apart from that, the protagonist can shield herself against bullets, diverting them toward those who shoot.

The combat has some minor issues, but I find it enjoyable nevertheless. There are some stealth systems, too. Not surprisingly, the character hangs out in tall grass, but actually this doesn’t work the way it should: enemies don’t detect her even when the logic says they should. You can straighten up and cast spells, producing sounds and flashes – and don’t you worry, they won’t discern you at all. Dumb AI spoils all the pleasure in this case.

Unknown 9: Awakening is made on Unreal Engine 5. The graphics feel inconsistent. On one hand, the scenery is varied and picturesque, and special effects look gorgeous; on the other, characters seem painfully underdeveloped. Their hair and facial expressions appear outdated – not to mention jerky and unnatural animations.

In fact, technical issues really spoil the fun in the game. The controls feel somehow sluggish and unresponsive, which affects gameplay. The camera works no better, either – I’m afraid that a sack of potatoes remains more sensitive. Worst of all, protagonists get stuck in the environment – or they behave in any other glitchy manner (possibilities are various).

Final thoughts?

Unknown 9: Awakening may not be perfect, but it’s not a failure, either. Amongst its advantages are unique combat mechanics and picturesque scenery. Generally speaking, I enjoyed the title. On the other hand, the game struggles with technical problems. Sluggish controls and visual issues spoil the overall experience.