There is but one redeeming element to this game: the ability system. The combinatorial explosion of possible loadouts is interesting and well designed. Unfortunately, the rest of the game does not meet this standard.

The combat is clunky, tedious, and uninteresting. I'm not convinced it's possible to lose a fight; while I had equipped all limiters I had yet unlocked (limiters make the game harder), the game was still far too easy. But worse, besides being easy, it is not fun. Animations are slow and stilted. You don't feel skilled or cool while winning; you feel bored. You wonder if you're still in the tutorial, then realize you're more than halfway through the game.

The plot is incomprehensible, and the atmosphere is pretentious. If deciphered, the story turns out to be mundane. There is no one to root for or relate to. There were attempts to describe backstories of various characters, most of whom never appear on screen, but no reason to care.

This game is not worth anyone's time. Bastion, from the same studio, did it better in every way.

Transistor: A Steam Review
Transistor, the sci-fi action RPG from the creators of Bastion, is a masterpiece of style and substance. This isn't just a thrilling combat experience; it's a world built on intrigue, a story sung through a dynamic soundtrack, and a visual feast for the eyes.

Story & Setting

Transistor throws you headfirst into a vibrant, hand-painted world. You are Red, a singer robbed of her voice and wielding the enigmatic Transistor – a powerful weapon imbued with the voices of its past owners. The narrative unfolds through fragmented memories and environmental storytelling, piecing together the mystery of the Transistor's past and your connection to it. It's a tale that begs for multiple playthroughs to fully grasp its depth.

Gameplay

Transistor seamlessly blends real-time action with strategic planning. Combat revolves around "functions" – special abilities you equip to the Transistor that manipulate time itself. These functions allow you to slow down time, rewind your actions, or unleash devastating attacks. Mastering these functions and their combinations is key to conquering enemies and bosses. The combat feels incredibly fluid, encouraging experimentation and creative approaches to each encounter.

Presentation

The world of Transistor is a visual marvel. The hand-painted environments are bursting with color and detail, while the character designs are both stylish and evocative. The soundtrack is equally impressive, dynamically adapting to the flow of combat and adding another layer of emotional depth to the story. The voice acting for Red and the various functions is superb, further immersing you in the world.

Replayability

With its cryptic narrative and diverse function combinations, Transistor offers high replayability. Choices you make throughout the story can lead to different outcomes, and there's always something new to discover with each playthrough. The "New Game+" mode lets you carry over your progress, making subsequent runs even more strategic.

Verdict

Transistor is more than just a game; it's an experience. With its innovative combat system, captivating story, and stunning presentation, it's a must-play for any fan of action RPGs or simply those seeking a unique and unforgettable adventure.

Highly Recommended

Pros:

Captivating story with a unique style of storytelling
Innovative combat system with strategic depth
Stunning visuals and a dynamic soundtrack
High replayability with multiple endings and "New Game+" mode
Cons:

Combat can be challenging at times, especially for new players
The story can be cryptic for some players
Overall:

Transistor is a must-have for any Steam library. It's a short but unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll

This game is worth the money just for the amazing music no questions asked. Yet for the low price of ~5 bucks on sale you also get an immensely stylish game, a very competently written narrative with a great ending and fun enough gameplay that doesnt overstay it's welcome at ~8 hours. The overdose of bloom-like effects all over my screen was the only reminder that this game came out 10 years ago! In one word, 'Wow!', Supergiant is special.