Mars 2120 is very clearly Metroid Dread inspired, and does many elements pretty well. The level design is fun, the art elements are well modeled and exploration/puzzle are solid. But it feels unfinished, and takes some serious “getting used to”.

Immediately you will notice the quirks. The game starts with no cut scenes, no tutorials, you are just suddenly on a moon and have to figure things out. This is a good representation of what’s to come, as figuring out the mechanics and what the game expects of you is pretty much up to you.

But eventually you do get your footing, and it becomes much more enjoyable. There’s tons of incremental and meaningful upgrades to find. Some really good boss fights and well choreographed surprises. It just feels like a game that could have been great, but just didn’t quite cross the finish line.

Combat is ok, kind of clunky but not the worst. It just feels a bit like a rough draft and hard to recommend. If you are willing to look past the jank and put some effort into figuring this one out, then I can definitely recommend. But in its current state I can’t give it more than a 2.5/5.