Hard Reset Extended Edition: A Cyberpunk Shooter Revival

Hard Reset Extended Edition is a high-octane, single-player shooter developed by Flying Wild Hog that delivers a visceral, nostalgic experience for PC gamers. Released initially in 2011, the title was later bundled with the Exile expansion to create this substantial updated version. It is an indie action title that draws heavy inspiration from the dystopian cyberpunk literature of William Gibson, Neal Stephenson, and Philip K. Dick. The game is designed to shake up the shooter scene with over-the-top destruction and a beautifully realized dark sci-fi setting.

Story and Setting

The narrative takes place in Bezoar, described as the only remaining human city in a devastated world. Players take on the role of Major Fletcher, an Army Combat Veteran and soldier of the CLN. Fletcher is dragged into a massive conflict between two of mankind's greatest enemies. As the campaign progresses, the protagonist discovers that nothing is what it seems to be, uncovering the deeper truths behind the war.

Gameplay Mechanics

Hard Reset is modeled on classic video games, resulting in a more straightforward gameplay loop than most contemporary first-person shooters. The game lacks a multiplayer mode, focusing entirely on a fast-paced, "old school" styled FPS experience. Unlike many modern titles that rely on complex inventories, Hard Reset features a streamlined loadout centered around two primary weapons: the CLN Modular Assault Rifle and the EEF-21 Plasma Rifle.

Both weapons boast a deep, experience-based upgrade system. Players can unlock various firing modes and strap on add-ons, such as grenade and rocket launchers for the assault rifle, or railguns and stasis modules for the plasma rifle. The environments are designed with physics and interactivity in mind; players can utilize explosive barrels and electrified vending machines with anti-vandalism defenses to trigger splash damage against hordes of cybernetic enemies.

Notable Features and Extended Content

The Extended Edition significantly expands upon the original game. Key features of this edition include:

  • Additional Campaign Content: The game adds approximately two hours of new gameplay across five new levels.
  • New Threats: Players will encounter four new enemy types and one new boss character.
  • Survival Mode: Two new levels have been added to the survival mode.
  • Visuals: The edition utilizes an updated graphics engine with high-fidelity graphics and full dynamic lighting.
  • Exploration: Stages feature secret areas containing hidden pickups for health and ammunition.

Platform Availability

While the original release and the Extended Edition were launched for Windows PC, the franchise has expanded to other systems. In June 2016, a remastered version titled Hard Reset Redux was released alongside versions for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, featuring upgraded graphics and new weapons. Later, in October 2020, the game became available on the Amazon Luna cloud gaming platform.

Who It Appeals To

This title appeals primarily to veterans of the FPS genre who crave straightforward, action-packed gameplay without the bloat of modern mechanics. It is ideal for players who enjoy facing hordes of enemies, epic boss fights, and immersive sci-fi storytelling. Fans of the cyberpunk aesthetic and those who appreciate the works of Gibson and Dick will find the setting particularly compelling.