5 years later I still remember them: all those situations, levels and people. And I miss them. Don't miss out! Play it!!
I've had a few annoying bugs, near-impossible boss fights. But don't believe others; it's not even remotely a show-stopper. Don't miss out on this experience! If you like RPG's, adventure, exploration, a lenghty emersive single player with a fantastic mature storyline.
Graphics-
At the time, I was astounded how everything looked almost 'next-gen', while playing on a halfbaked pc. Without problems. Even now, it doesn't look as old as it is.
Sound-
I'm a graduated composer & sound designer. Not that you should care at all. But what I want to illustrate by saying it is this: I'm at all times aware of sound while playing games. This time, I never even noticed it! I was living (!) the game, instead of experiencing it! (okay, a few phase issues and odd chorusy effects on the dialogues, but that's ok). It has a wonderfull lifely 'inhabited' feel to it. I can just remember the ambience of the party-goth music in an old church....
Level design-
Perfect. A living, breathing world. Organic streets, clubs, hotels, suburbs, graveyards & interors, so diverse and plentyful I haven't seen before and even after. Honestly. There is no repetition in situations or surroundings AT ALL. And there's hundreds
Story & dialogue-
Mature. No dumbed down fairytales here. These are real people and plausible conversations. Nothing juvenile. You'll soon enjoy them!
Gameplay-
I somewhat agree on the critique concerning the 'clucky' combat. But you know as well as I do this is not all that important to enjoy an immersive game. You mostly need story, motivation, emotion, curiosity and a rewarding feeling after completing quests, helping(/destroying) people. And don't even once think fighting isn't fun. Try sneaking a but and finish off difficult enemies with a kick-butt strike of your choice! It will make you feel badass Chuck Norris style.
Fighting is often intense, and greatly rewarding after finishing it.
Detail-
There's an abundance of detail in this. From a windowpane, to an ever so slightly odd thing someone says from which you can explore storylines and quests even more, to the always changing and hilarious radio shows you hear in your own apartement.
I could go on and on. But you should just get it. NOW. Try it out at least. I PROMISE you won't regret it.
And one more thing to the developers: thank you!!!! You are the best in the field. Kudos.