TL;DR
DARQ's next-gen upgrade brings two new DLCs and complimentary access for existing owners, but the enhancements are subtle. While loading times are faster and there's a minor visual bump, the PS5 version still suffers from occasional frame rate drops and slightly sluggish controls. The new levels are a nice addition for fans, but the overall upgrade doesn't fully leverage next-gen potential, making it a less compelling purchase for newcomers seeking a showcase of new hardware. Discover if the marginal improvements are enough to revisit this atmospheric puzzle game by reading the full review.
DARQ garnered significant attention in 2020, with Henric’s highly favorable review contributing to its inclusion in our Top 10 Games of 2020 list. Now, the next-gen upgrade for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S has arrived, incorporating two DLC packages: “The Tower” and “The Crypt”. This upgrade, released on March 25, 2021, is complimentary for existing owners of the last-gen version. The crucial question is whether this update offers sufficient enhancements to warrant a purchase on next-gen consoles for new players.
Given that Henric has already provided a comprehensive review of the core game, this assessment will focus specifically on the technical and performance differences between the PS4 and PS5 versions. In addition to the two new levels, which provide a welcome extension for enthusiasts of the base game (completable in approximately 6-7 hours), the game exhibits a subtle visual improvement. The resolution has been moderately increased, and there’s a slight enhancement in detail. Furthermore, loading times are significantly reduced, owing to the PS5’s SSD architecture.
The visual enhancements are demonstrated in the video provided below. However, the differences are not immediately apparent; the improvement can be characterized as marginal. While the game offers both “cinematic” mode (prioritizing visual quality) and “performance” mode, both modes are somewhat underwhelming. DARQ remains a stylish, stylistically consistent, and atmospheric title. However, the upgrade does not fully realize the potential of the next-gen platform. Despite a substantial day-one patch, the game exhibits occasional frame rate drops and feels somewhat “softened,” resulting in a slightly sluggish control response, even in performance mode on the PS5. Further optimization is warranted. The developers should consider the conceptual excellence of Playdead Studios’ Limbo and Inside, as well as their technically sound execution.
The DARQ next-gen upgrade, in its current iteration, does not offer a compelling reason to upgrade. While the core gameplay remains enjoyable, challenging, and reasonably priced, the limited enhancements present in this “complete” edition are somewhat disappointing. Future updates may address these shortcomings.
Despite the reservations, DARQ remains a worthwhile recommendation, particularly given the free upgrade for existing owners. However, it is not an essential purchase for next-gen enthusiasts seeking a showcase of the new hardware’s capabilities.
