Elite: Dangerous Reviews
Elite Dangerous is a great representation of the space sim genre that will have fans tickled by its large galaxy, open world and solid combat. Admittedly, it isn't for everybody. The more measured pace will be boring for folks who want action all the time and the lack of guidance also will likely turn off newcomers. At the same time, if you love the genre and you're looking for something to sink your teeth into before Star Citizen comes out, this will definitely scratch that space sim itch.
Frontier Developments proves that hardcore space sims can deliver on home consoles with the Xbox One version of Elite: Dangerous.
Even though there is currently a high learning curve and players need to do a little research on their own to get the most out of this galactic sandbox, Frontier Developments has so far demonstrated that they deliver on their promises. Compare that to the 'other' space sim Kickstarter that everyone has been talking about and I think the choice for your next space sim is an easy one to make I would strongly suggest if you are looking for a bit of challenge and want to get sucked into a deep, rewarding game that promises to only get bigger, pick up your Xbox One controller and give Elite: Dangerous a try. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Elite: Dangerous is a superb game with plenty of room for growth and maturation.
In aiming for a slightly different market with this Xbox port, Elite: Dangerous could have fallen foul. However, it's testament to how strong its many different facets are that you can play the game like you're Captain Kirk or Captain Solo and have it work either way.
Elite: Dangerous is still considered a "work in progress" and will be getting updates and new features implemented over time. In its current state, it does have nigh infinite amount of content due to the randomly-generated nature, so there is usually something to keep interest, even if players are spaced out by what feels like hours at a time. It can be immersive thanks to the methodical pacing, but in the end, it is still boring due to the exciting bits being so few and far in between, so it's is a mixed bag in terms of how experiences will vary, depending on who is playing. Elite: Dangerous has its obvious flaws, but the game itself is unique and is unlike anything else on the Xbox One, so for just being different it can be worth a shot.
In the end, Elite: Dangerous isn't a terrible game, but I don't think it was made for mass appeal.
On a technical level, it nearly pulls off the impossible task of dazzling on par with its predecessor.
Elite: Dangerous is a unique game. It's given us a gigantic galaxy to explore of which it is nigh-on impossible to see the full extent. It's a classic space simulator through and through, to the point in which the controls and game mechanics can be hard to grasp. This in itself isn't a bad thing, but it won't appeal to everyone. Those who enjoy this genre of games will have a blast, but others will find it hard to fully enjoy. Only with a huge time investment will players get the full experience of the title, but with that comes a greater feel of reward. The powerplay and CQC aspects can be exciting, but they can be completely ignored. The servers have caused the game to have a rocky start on the Xbox One, but the developers are thankfully listening to the community and doing their best to fix the problems. Now that Elite: Dangerous is available to all, it is a good alternative to exploring the Milky Way galaxy in all its glory instead of training in real life to become a fully fledged astronaut, but be prepared before you suit up.
Elite: Dangerous is a massive game. I can't even begin to talk about how many star systems there are in the game, and you can go to them all if you choose to do so. That statement is both what defines this game as well as holds it back, but it only does that for the first few hours. The lack of direction is its biggest gift and its biggest curse. It is up to the player and player-base to make the fun for themselves. This is one of the best space sim games I have ever played. It can be a scary game, but if you let yourself get into it and really dig in deep, you will begin to see just how brilliant this game can be, just like I did.
Elite Dangerous is a very compelling and adventurous game. It's a story you get to tell based on your decisions. This is more than just a game. It's an ever-changing experience you get to participate in. Elite Dangerous is not for the Casual Gamer, and it's certainly not for everyone. If you're thinking about buying this simply for the space combat portion, you may want to explore other options. It's much more complex than the typical shoot'em-up experience.
There's a really special game inside Elite: Dangerous for those that are willing to put up with the steep learning curve. If you're not though, it's too confusing of an experience.
Elite Dangerous is a very cool, atmospheric experience with an outstanding presentation. The flexible gameplay and progression loop are two great reasons to keep coming back for more if the game's mechanics click for you. However, it is easy to see why some people might be turned off by its aimlessness, and with the lacking narrative contextualising what you're doing, you might be left with the nihilistic question of why you're bothering doing anything at all.
Although slow and complicated at times, Elite: Dangerous nevertheless provides a rewarding open-world experience on Xbox One.
The content and gameplay of 'Elite' is much as it was during the Preview program, which is to say excellent. The technical issues are much improved, and the addition of CQC is a net positive. It can be a cold, uninviting experience for the new player, but it is a great spaceship game that should not be missed.
Frontier Developments have done a magnificent job of creating an affordable universe that is fun to play. With tons of game styles and the entirety of the Milky Way to explore, this one is truly for space sim buffs with one caveat – if you're feeling lost, we recommend you check out video tutorials online.
Elite: Dangerous is a well-made space sim with incredible scope and wondrous plans for the future, but it might put off some players with its complexity.
An absolutely brilliant space sim that has no equal on the Xbox One. Despite the relative lack of "depth" and other small issues, Elite: Dangerous still manages to impress with a very dynamic, unique and incredible experience. For space sim fans, this will no doubt become a staple in this genre on console.
Frontier Developments has created an impossibly huge galaxy with almost limitless potential. Now they just need to fill it up with more interesting personalities and conflicts and reasons to explore. Once that happens, Elite: Dangerous could rocket up to must-play status.
Massive, intimidating, and stunningly beautiful, Elite: Dangerous is one of the deepest, most rewarding open-world experiences you can have on Xbox One.