STARTREK: INFINITE
OCT 16th, 2023
Star Trek: Infinite Review Blog
Star Trek: Infinite takes players on a strategic voyage through the cosmos, engaging them in a 4X adventure where exploration is as limitless as the stars. Despite its Metacritic score of 67/100, the game has been met with a range of reviews, some praising its ambitious venture into the 4X genre, while others find it stumbling on its way to boldly go where no game has gone before.
The game is commended for its marriage of the 4X genre with the expansive universe of Star Trek. IGN encapsulates this union as a "match so perfect it’s a fantasy you’d just have to create on a Holodeck", with a grand universe to explore filled with countless possibilities. The allure of exploring the cosmos is further emphasized by GameGrin, stating that players ready to invest their time will find Star Trek: Infinite as captivating as "Captain Pike’s hair," where three hours can feel like three minutes.
PC Gamer’s comparison of Star Trek: Infinite to Stellaris, albeit with a unique twist, indicates that the game might appeal to fans of the genre, but with a remark, "It's Stellaris, but not as we know it", suggesting there are distinct features or possibly shortcomings that set it apart.
On the flip side, not all reviews are in favor of the title. An unsatisfied player on Metacritic labels the game as an "absolute travesty" they wish to never play again. Moreover, while the game leans into the role-playing and replaying aspect, rewarding players for their dedication to embodying their roles in the vast Star Trek universe, it's hinted that this might not cater to all, especially those looking for a more casual experience.
The game is also critiqued for not being a "strategy pioneer" but still provides an undemanding yet enjoyable large scale 4X gameplay, especially emphasizing on exploration and remixing possibilities in a familiar yet somewhat flexible setting.
Star Trek: Infinite, with its strategic gameplay and exploration in a beloved universe, offers a space for players to immerse themselves in a grand narrative. However, it's apparent that the game's attempt to traverse the uncharted territory of blending a well-established franchise with a demanding genre has received mixed navigational coordinates from both critics and players alike.
